Tempura Poke

about tempura poke!

Tempura poke is a popular dish that originated in Hawaii, but has since gained popularity in other parts of the world, including the United States. The dish combines elements of traditional Japanese tempura with the Hawaiian concept of poke, which refers to raw fish that is cut into small pieces and mixed with various seasonings and toppings.

In tempura poke, sushi-grade raw fish (usually tuna, salmon, or ahi) is cut into small pieces and mixed with a variety of ingredients such as tempura bits (usually made from shrimp or vegetables), sesame oil, soy sauce, and other seasonings. The mixture is then topped with additional ingredients such as diced green onions, sesame seeds, pickled ginger, and wasabi mayonnaise.

Tempura poke is often served over a bed of sushi rice, and can be customized with a variety of toppings and sauces to suit individual tastes. Some common toppings include diced avocado, cilantro, pickled jalapenos, and furikake (a Japanese seasoning blend).

One of the key features of tempura poke is its versatility - it can be customized with a wide range of ingredients and sauces to suit individual tastes. Some popular variations include spicy tuna poke (made with spicy sauce and diced jalapenos), shrimp tempura poke (made with shrimp tempura bits), and krab poke (made with real crab meat).

If you're looking to try tempura poke for the first time, here are some tips for ordering and enjoying it:

1. Start with the basics: If you're new to tempura poke, it's a good idea to start with a basic version that includes sushi-grade raw fish, tempura bits, and a flavorful sauce.

2. Choose your fish: Most tempura poke dishes are made with sushi-grade raw tuna, salmon, or ahi. If you have a preference, be sure to specify which type of fish you'd like.

3. Add your toppings: Once you've chosen your fish, you can add a variety of toppings to customize your dish. Some popular options include diced avocado, cilantro, pickled jalapenos, and furikake.

4. Be adventurous with sauces: Tempura poke can be paired with a variety of sauces, including soy sauce, sesame oil, and spicy sauce. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations from your server or try new combinations to find your perfect flavor.

5. Mix it up: Once you've chosen your ingredients, give the dish a good mix to ensure that all the flavors are evenly distributed.

6. Enjoy: Finally, take a bite and enjoy the combination of flavors and textures in your tempura poke!

Overall, tempura poke is a delicious and versatile dish that offers a unique blend of Japanese and Hawaiian flavors. Whether you're a sushi lover, a seafood fanatic, or just looking to try something new, tempura poke is definitely worth a try.