Chilled Poke Bowl

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chilled Poke Bowls are a perfect balance of flavors and textures, with the freshness of raw fish, the nuttiness of rice, and the crunch of fresh veggies. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of protein-rich fish, fiber-filled vegetables, and hearty rice makes it both satisfying and healthy. Plus, poke bowls are incredibly easy to customize — swap out ingredients to create a bowl that fits your preferences. Whether you’re a fan of spicy tuna or prefer a more traditional preparation, a poke bowl is a perfect go-to meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the poke:

• 1 lb sushi-grade tuna or salmon, diced into 1-inch cubes

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

• 1 teaspoon grated ginger (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the bowl:

• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice (or sushi rice)

• 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced

• 1 small carrot, julienned or shaved into thin ribbons

• 1/4 cup radishes, thinly sliced

• 1 avocado, sliced

• 2 tablespoons seaweed salad (optional)

• 1/4 cup edamame, cooked and shelled

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)

• Fresh cilantro or green onions for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the poke marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until well combined.

2. Marinate the fish: Add the diced tuna or salmon to the marinade and gently toss to coat. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes for the flavors to develop.

3. Assemble the poke bowl: While the fish is marinating, prepare the rice and place it as the base in each bowl. You can use white, brown, or sushi rice based on your preference.

4. Add the toppings: Arrange the cucumber slices, shredded carrots, radishes, avocado slices, seaweed salad, and edamame around the bowl.

5. Add the marinated fish: Once the fish has marinated, place it on top of the rice and vegetables in each bowl.

6. Garnish: Sprinkle the bowl with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro or green onions.

7. Serve chilled: Serve immediately and enjoy your chilled poke bowl!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2 to 4

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Total Time: 30-45 minutes (including marinating time)

Variations

• Spicy poke: Add sriracha or chili paste to the marinade for a spicy kick. You can also mix in some mayo for a creamy texture.

• Vegetarian poke bowl: Replace the fish with tofu or tempeh marinated in the same sauce for a plant-based version.

• Fruit toppings: Add fresh pineapple, mango, or orange slices for a sweet contrast to the savory fish.

• Add pickled vegetables: Pickled ginger, pickled onions, or pickled carrots can provide an extra layer of flavor.

• Gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: The assembled poke bowl is best enjoyed fresh, but the marinated fish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. To store leftovers, keep the fish, rice, and toppings separate and assemble them later.

• Reheating: Poke bowls are served chilled, so there’s no need to reheat them. However, if you prefer a warm version, you can warm the rice in the microwave before assembling.

FAQs

Can I use other types of fish for the poke?

Yes! While tuna and salmon are the most traditional choices, you can use any sushi-grade fish you prefer, such as yellowtail, snapper, or even scallops.

How long should I marinate the fish?

Marinate the fish for at least 15 minutes but no longer than 30 minutes, as the fish can become too soft if marinated for too long.

Can I make a poke bowl without fish?

Yes, you can create a poke bowl with tofu, tempeh, or even cooked shrimp for a non-raw protein option.

Can I prepare the poke bowl ahead of time?

You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time (like chopping the vegetables, cooking the rice, and marinating the fish), but it’s best to assemble the bowl just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use tamari instead of soy sauce, this recipe is completely gluten-free.

Can I make the rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the rice ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating.

Can I use cooked fish for a poke bowl?

While traditional poke bowls use raw fish, you can substitute with cooked fish like grilled salmon or shrimp if you prefer.

What can I use instead of avocado?

If you don’t like avocado or want a different texture, you can use cucumber ribbons, a boiled egg, or even roasted sweet potatoes.

How do I make this poke bowl spicier?

Add more sriracha, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños to the marinade or directly to the bowl for extra heat.

Can I add more vegetables to my poke bowl?

Absolutely! Feel free to add additional veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet corn for added flavor and crunch.

Conclusion

Chilled Poke Bowl is a perfect dish for those who enjoy fresh, flavorful meals with endless customization options. The combination of marinated fish, crisp vegetables, and savory rice makes it a light yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for warm days or anytime you want a quick and healthy dish. With its vibrant colors, nutrient-packed ingredients, and variety of textures, this poke bowl will quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!