Created: March 28, 2021. Revised: February 28, 2025
There’s an energy about Hawaii that feels full circle- rooted in love and respect for the land. I imagine giving it all away to build a little hut just steps from the ocean. I’d spend my days sailing around the island (this is my daydream- don’t ask me how a vet nurse can afford a sailboat!), making friends with the local sea creatures, and feasting on fresh ingredients straight from an acacia bowl.
Where Does Poke Originate?
Poke is an Asian-American fusion dish at heart. Think of it as a sushi bowl, with raw fish as the star ingredient. It’s a native Hawaiian dish, often topped with a variety of Asian-inspired flavors. Hawaiians take great pride in poke, a reflection of the island’s melting pot of cultures and history.
How to Create Poke Without Raw Fish?
I am certifiably obsessed with sushi. Honestly, I’ve considered seeking professional help for it. And just because I no longer eat animals doesn’t mean I’ve stopped craving the taste. My mouth still waters at the thought of a spicy tuna roll, but it just doesn’t serve my goals anymore. So, I had to find another way to get my sushi fix.
The first time I marinated watermelon with my sushi-inspired blend of flavors, I may or may not have jumped up and down and clapped. (A regular occurrence in my kitchen, while my one-eyed cat stares at me in confusion.) But this dish—paired with all the classic sushi toppings—satisfies every deep-rooted sushi craving. I highly recommend marinating the watermelon overnight. It gives it that slippery, melt-in-your-mouth texture reminiscent of raw fish.
Leftovers? Yes, Please.
There’s a high likelihood that you’ll have leftover marinated watermelon. Honestly, I usually just cut up the entire watermelon and marinate all of it. It makes the perfect base for other fun recipes- like watermelon sushi rolls. (Any excuse for sushi rolls, am I right?) If you’re feeling fancy, cut some ultra-thin slices and use them just like nigiri.
- Watermelon Sushi Rolls: Use it as a filling for maki rolls with avocado, cucumber, and spicy mayo.
- Poke-Inspired Tacos: Stuff into corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, sriracha mayo, and sesame seeds.
- Rice Paper Summer Rolls: Wrap with vermicelli noodles, mint, and lettuce for a light, refreshing bite.
- Watermelon Nigiri: Slice thinly and place over sushi rice, just like traditional nigiri.
- Watermelon Tartare: Finely dice and mix with shallots, capers, and a drizzle of tamari for a unique appetizer.
“May there always be warmth in your Hale, fish (or watermelon!) in your net, and Aloha in your heart.” Mahalo!
