Ahi Shoyu Poke with Limu/Onion is a delicious Hawaiian dish that combines fresh ahi tuna with shoyu (soy sauce), limu (seaweed), and onions. Here’s a detailed breakdown of this dish, including its history, components, preparation steps, and estimated preparation time:
1. History: Poke (pronounced poh-kay) is a traditional Hawaiian dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The word “poke” means “to slice” or “cut crosswise into pieces” in Hawaiian. It originally consisted of simple ingredients like freshly caught fish, sea salt, seaweed, and crushed kukui nuts. Over time, it evolved to include various seasonings and ingredients influenced by different culinary traditions.
2. Components:
- Ahi Tuna: The primary ingredient is fresh ahi tuna, which is typically sushi-grade and cut into bite-sized cubes.
- Shoyu: Shoyu is Japanese soy sauce, which adds a savory and salty flavor to the dish.
- Limu: Limu is a type of seaweed that is used to impart a unique oceanic flavor and texture to the poke.
- Onion: Sweet Maui onions or green onions are commonly used to add a mild onion flavor and crunch.
3. Preparation Steps:
- Start by ensuring your ahi tuna is fresh and sushi-grade. If it’s not pre-cubed, carefully cut it into bite-sized cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add shoyu (soy sauce) to the tuna cubes. The amount can vary depending on your taste, but start with around 1/4 to 1/2 cup and adjust to your preference.
- Gently mix the tuna and shoyu together. Be careful not to break the tuna pieces.
- Rinse and prepare the limu (seaweed). You can find limu at specialty Asian or Hawaiian stores. If using dried limu, rehydrate it according to the package instructions.
- Add the limu to the tuna mixture and gently combine.
- Finally, add finely chopped onion (Maui onion or green onion) to the bowl and mix everything together.
4. Preparation Time: Ahi Shoyu Poke is a quick and easy dish to prepare, usually taking about 15-20 minutes. The time can vary depending on how long it takes to cube the tuna and prepare the other ingredients. If you’re using pre-cut tuna, it will be even faster.
Once your Ahi Shoyu Poke is ready, you can serve it immediately as a delicious appetizer or main dish. It’s a perfect representation of the rich culinary traditions of Hawaii and a delightful dish for those who appreciate food and beverages, as you mentioned in your profile. Enjoy your poke!
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and health information for Ahi Shoyu Poke with Limu/Onion. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per 100g serving):
- Calories: 140-180 kcal
- Protein: 24-30g
- Total Fat: 1-5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5-1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0-4g
- Carbohydrates: 4-10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2g
- Sugars: 1-2g
- Sodium: 600-800mg
- Cholesterol: 30-40mg
Health Information:
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Protein: Ahi Shoyu Poke is an excellent source of high-quality protein, thanks to the ahi tuna. Protein is essential for muscle growth and repair, as well as overall bodily functions.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Ahi tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. Omega-3s can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and inflammation.
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Low in Saturated Fat: This dish is generally low in saturated fat, which is good for heart health. However, it’s important to be mindful of the type of soy sauce used, as some can be high in sodium.
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Low in Carbohydrates: Ahi Shoyu Poke is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those following low-carb or keto diets.
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Moderate Sodium Content: The soy sauce adds sodium to the dish. While sodium is essential for various bodily functions, excessive intake can contribute to high blood pressure. Consider using reduced-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your sodium intake.
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Nutrient-Rich: In addition to protein and omega-3s, Ahi Shoyu Poke contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium.
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Hydration: Since seaweed (limu) is a key ingredient, it provides hydration and essential minerals like iodine.
It’s important to note that the nutritional values can vary based on the specific recipe and portion size. If you have specific dietary concerns or are tracking your nutrient intake, consider using a nutrition calculator or consulting with a registered dietitian for more precise information based on your recipe and serving size.
