What is poké? No doubt you’ll have seen it on the social networks, because it burst onto the scene in 2018 and has been growing in popularity since. The dish originated in Hawaii, and some people think of it as a kind of sushi, but one that's easier to eat.
In the Hawaiian language the term "poké" means "to cut". On the plate, poké refers to pieces of marinated raw fish, usually tuna, placed on top of rice together with vegetables and sauce. A really refreshing hot weather dish that's similar to a salad with raw fish, and served in a bowl. It's become a very popular, healthy alternative to fast food.
Apart from the origin of its name, the origin of the dish itself is also interesting. It appears to have originated among Hawaiian fishermen, who seasoned their catch of the day - pohkay - to eat on their boats.
Nowadays, unlike the original Hawaiian dish, poké often comes with rice or other carbohydrates as well as fish, and this is the sort of recipe that we at the Cava Regulatory Board would like to offer you.
Your poké can either be eaten on the same day, or vacuum packed for eating at some other time. This very special dish is delicious with just a drizzle of olive oil, or try serving with some toast and pickles. Whichever option you choose, our expert aromas specialist, François Chartier, recommends pairing this dish with a cava gran reserva (aged for more than 30 months).
Macadamias or cashew nuts: here, macadamias or cashew nuts replace the roasted or ground kukui nuts originally used in the dish. These come from the kukui tree (the national symbol of Hawaii), so they're a key ingredient typical of the area, and one that adds an authentic touch. However, in May 2012 the Spanish Agency for Medicine and Health Products withdrew the ‘India-Magicnuez’ from the market. This is a toxic nut often confused with the kukui nut, and is harmful to human health. For this reason, two options have been included in this recipe to replace it.