How to Make Hawaiian Ahi Poke Appetizer

Many of you may be wondering, “What is poke?” Poke (pronounced “po-kay”) is a popular ahi tuna appetizer served at restaurants throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Poke features fresh tuna fish, known in the Hawaiian Islands as 'ahi' tuna, and there are many variations of this simple, tropical recipe. This particular version is super easy to make and the perfect appetizer for a summer barbecue or a Hawaiian luau!

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 1 lb. fresh Ahi tuna steak, sushi grade (not frozen)
• 1/4 c. sweet chili sauce (May Ploy brand, if you can get it)
• 1 tblsp. sesame oil
• 1/4 c. low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/2 c. chopped green onion, green tops only
• wasabi powder or paste (optional)
• 2 tsp. toasted sesame seeds or black sesame seeds
• Round tortilla chips

1. 
    
   Chop ahi tuna into pearl-sized pieces

   Begin by chopping the raw ahi tuna into pearl-sized bits. Using a VERY sharp slicing knife cut across the grain then cross cut the slices into smaller pieces. Place in a glass or ceramic bowl.

2. Combine the sweet chili sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce and green onions together then pour over the chopped ahi tuna and gently stir.

3. If you would like to add some “kick” to your poke appetizer recipe, add a little wasabi and mix well. Start with just a 1/4 teaspoon, then taste, adding more if you like.

4. 
    
   Ahi Tuna Appetizer

   Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and serve with tortilla chips on the side for scooping. Serves 10-12 people.

Tips & Warnings

• This delicious and easy to prepare ahi tuna recipe really depends on the quality and freshness of the tuna. If you live near the coast, obtaining fresh ahi tuna that is deep burgundy red in color is fairly easy. Most quality grocery stores carry ahi from time to time. If your town has a fish market, you have an even better chance of finding freshly caught fish. Another great option is to contact a local restaurant, preferably a sushi restaurant, and ask them if you can purchase or order through them. Specify that you are interested only in fresh, not frozen, ahi tuna.
• Ahi tuna, or maguro, is also one of the most popular fish used in making sushi.
• Use only fresh ahi tuna and remember to use safe food handling practices.
• Thoroughly clean all food prep surfaces and tools, before and after use.

Resources

• Free Luau Signs and Party Supplies
• Free Luau Recipes

[rjspindle]

on 2/28/2009 This sounds amazing and a half times pi. Great recipe. I'm going to try this tonight. 5*

[Susang6]

on 2/26/2009 I love Ahi Tuna, and normally enjoy it rare / seared only. Your recipe sounds delicious and will have to try.5*

[veryirie]

on 2/9/2009 I LOVE poke! The Pokeman makes some of the best here. Thanks for sharing this tasty recipe! 5*****

[Truckergirl]

on 2/8/2009 This sounds really good. Would you mind if I put a link to this article in the resources section of my How to Host a Luau article?

[Knowpher]

on 2/7/2009 I don't know about trying this one myself but my wife would probably love it! She loves to try new things like this. You've done a great job explaining it! 5*