Tuna Spicy Poke Bowl: A Fresh and Zesty Hawaiian Classic.

The poke bowl (pronounced poh-kay) is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine that has become a global favorite for those seeking a fresh, high-protein meal.¹ At its heart, poke simply means “to slice or cut,” referring to the cubes of raw, marinated fish.²The Spicy Tuna variation is particularly popular, utilizing a creamy, piquant dressing that complements the buttery texture of the fish.+1

This recipe focuses on the balance of temperatures and textures: the chill of the marinated tuna, the warmth of the rice, the crunch of fresh vegetables, and the smooth richness of avocado. It is a vibrant, customizable dish that brings a taste of the Pacific to your kitchen.³

Ingredients

When eating raw fish, quality is paramount. Ensure you are purchasing sushi-grade (or sashimi-grade) Ahi tuna from a reputable fishmonger.

The Spicy Tuna

Sashimi-Grade Ahi Tuna: 450g (1 lb), cut into 2cm (3/4 inch) cubes.
Mayonnaise: 3 tablespoons (Kewpie Japanese mayo is preferred for its richness).
Sriracha: 1 tablespoon (adjust to your heat preference).
Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon.
Soy Sauce: 1 teaspoon.
Green Onions: 2 stalks, finely sliced.

The Bowl Base & Toppings

Rice: 2 cups of cooked sushi rice (warm).
Avocado: 1 large, sliced.
Cucumber: 1/2 English cucumber, thinly sliced or julienned.
Edamame: 100g (1/2 cup), shelled and steamed.
Radishes: 2-3, thinly sliced for crunch.
Seaweed Salad (Wakame): Optional, for authentic flavor.⁴
Garnish: Toasted sesame seeds, furikake, or shredded nori.⁵

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Rice

Cook your sushi rice according to package instructions. While still warm, you can season it with a splash of rice vinegar, a teaspoon of sugar, and a pinch of salt to give it that authentic sushi flavor. Set aside to stay warm but not hot.

Step 2: Marinate the Tuna

In a medium glass bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sriracha, sesame oil, and soy sauce until smooth. Add the cubed tuna and half of the sliced green onions. Gently fold the fish into the sauce until every cube is evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes; this allows the flavors to penetrate the fish without the acidity “cooking” the delicate flesh.

Step 3: Prepare the Toppings

While the tuna marinates, slice your cucumber, radish, and avocado. If you want a little extra flavor for the vegetables, you can toss the cucumber slices in a tiny bit of rice vinegar and sesame seeds.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

Distribute the warm rice into four bowls. Arrange the spicy tuna in the center or to one side. Place the avocado, cucumber, edamame, and radishes in neat sections around the fish.

Step 5: The Finishing Touches

Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds and furikake over the entire bowl. Top with the remaining green onions and a drizzle of extra sriracha if you prefer more heat.

Flavor and Texture Notes

This bowl is a masterclass in balance. The spicy mayo provides a velvety coating that carries a slow, lingering heat, which is immediately cooled by the refreshing cucumber and creamy avocado. The tuna itself should feel firm yet tender, melting away with the savory notes of the sesame oil. The warm rice at the bottom provides a comforting base that makes the cold toppings stand out.

Tips and Variations

The Grain Swap: For a nuttier, higher-fiber version, substitute the sushi rice with brown rice or quinoa.
Non-Raw Option: If you aren’t a fan of raw fish, this same marinade works beautifully with cooked shrimp or seared tofu.⁶
Acid Balance: If the bowl feels too rich, add a few slices of pickled ginger or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to cut through the mayonnaise.

FAQ

Question	Answer
How long does the tuna keep?	Because it is raw fish, it is best consumed immediately. Do not store marinated raw tuna for more than 24 hours.
What is Furikake?	It is a Japanese seasoning made of dried fish, sesame seeds, chopped seaweed, sugar, and salt. It adds a wonderful “umami” crunch.
Can I use frozen tuna?	Yes, provided it was flash-frozen at high quality (often labeled as “sushi-grade”). Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator before cubing.

Conclusion

The Spicy Tuna Poke Bowl is a testament to how simple ingredients, when prepared with care, can create a meal that is both healthy and deeply indulgent. By sourcing high-quality fish and balancing your toppings, you can create a restaurant-standard experience at home. It is a bright, energizing dish that celebrates the natural flavors of the sea.