Right… time to get started. To give you an idea of how we build our poke bowls, we have created a handy illustration (see Picture). Poke is a relaxed, laid-back style of food, so follow this spirit and don’t be afraid to freestyle and find your own way – mixing pimps, salads or even fish.
A few things to remember: the fish is the star of the show, so source it carefully and be generous. Choose a wide bowl, pile it high and get stuck in!
1 – Base
If you want a base, then white rice would be the most traditional option. However, we prefer brown or black rice for its awesome taste and texture, along with its extra health benefits. Not all of our recipes call for rice – you can use all sorts of grains, noodles or vegetables. Give it a go and find your favourite.
2 – Salad
We love the extra freshness you get from a seasonal salad. It adds flavour, colour and crunch to the dish. For us, salads are a key part of our poke. They allow us to be more inventive and playful.
3 – Protein
The main show! The best bit, some say! We use a variety of fish from the island, from classic ahi (tuna) to scallops. The fresher the better! We also have a number of vegan and vegetarian alternatives to suit all.
4 – Marinade
This is what helps differentiate poke from sushi or sashimi. Generally in most modern and traditional poke recipes the fish is marinated. This helps to add depth and flavour to the fish.
5 – Pimps
A pimp has many connotations, but for us it is the glorious extras that add a new dimension to your poke. These are not always necessary, but are worth the effort.
6 – Toppings and Seasoning
The cherry on top! Toppings and seasonings are the fancy bits. Our favourites without a doubt are furikake – these add extra depth, crunch and flavour, and they also look beautiful.