Poke (POE-keh), meaning to “slice or cut crosswise into pieces” in Hawaiian, is a raw fish or seafood appetizer that is a local staple. Once, when planning an event at my old job, I was told that one way to rate the success of a local gathering in Hawai`i is by the quality and quantity of the poke. Thank goodness, I had already ordered a few pounds of ahi poke for the event! It is true; poke is ubiquitous at parties in Hawai`i, and available in a dizzying variety that reflects the multiple cultures that have come to call Hawai`i home (especially Asian). Utilizing every possible fish (tuna, octopus, shrimp, salmon, and then some - tofu) as the main ingredient, poke is typically seasoned with shoyu (soy sauce), limu (seaweed), sea salt, inamona (roasted kukui nut paste) and chili. However, the basic gist is a savory combination of salty and spicy to contrast the raw fish, so the choices for flavor/ingredient combinations are endless.
<br />
<br />The only way I have ever eaten octopus, or tako, is in poke, and like with shrimp poke, the tako is always cooked. Here is my version. It is soft and pleasantly chewy, with a bright sour burst from the tamarind and lemon, warm earthy notes from the sesame and a whisper of heat from the gochujang. Enjoy it alone as an appetizer or with hot rice as a meal. Any variety of poke goes really well with your favorite frosty brew.
<br />
<br />Note: At the Japanese market where I bought my tako (which came from Japan), it was already cooked. If I am able to find it fresh frozen, I will report on the cooking of it. Otherwise, check your Japanese/Asian markets for already cooked tako and making this is a snap! - gingerroot
<br />

Share: