Spicy Ahi Recipe

Are you a fan of spicy tuna rolls but want to try making them at home? Look no further than this delicious Spicy Ahi recipe! 

This mouth-watering dish combines the freshness of ahi tuna with the kick of spicy mayo, creating a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds tingling. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, this recipe is sure to impress. 

Today, we’ll walk you through all the steps to create your own Spicy Ahi at home, so get ready to elevate your culinary skills and satisfy your cravings for something bold and flavorful. Let’s dive into the world of homemade sushi delights!

What is Spicy Ahi?

Spicy Ahi refers to a popular Hawaiian dish made from ahi tuna (yellowfin tuna) that is seasoned with spicy ingredients, typically including sriracha, soy sauce, sesame oil, and other flavorings. The tuna is often diced into small cubes and mixed with a variety of fresh ingredients like red onion, scallions, and sometimes avocado for extra creaminess. The dish can also include mayonnaise, which adds a creamy texture and helps balance the heat from the sriracha sauce.

Spicy Ahi is typically served as a poke bowl, where the seasoned tuna is the star ingredient, often paired with rice, seaweed, and other garnishes. The dish is known for its balance of fresh, umami-rich flavors with a hint of spice. It’s a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying, popular in Hawaiian cuisine and sushi bars worldwide.

Ingredients of Spicy Ahi Poke

Spicy Ahi Poke is a delicious Hawaiian dish that features fresh ahi tuna marinated in a flavorful sauce. Here are the key ingredients typically used in this dish:

• Ahi Tuna Steak 1 Lb 

Ahi tuna steak is a firm, lean fish with deep red flesh, often used in poke. It has a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a meaty texture, making it ideal for raw dishes. Fresh, sushi-grade ahi tuna is preferred for its quality and safety.

•  Soy Sauce 1 Tbsp 

Soy sauce is a salty, umami-rich condiment made from fermented soybeans, wheat, and salt. It adds depth of flavor and enhances the natural taste of fish in spicy ahi poke. Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

• Sesame Oil 1/2 Tbsp

Sesame oil is a fragrant, nutty oil made from roasted sesame seeds. It adds depth and richness to spicy ahi poke, enhancing the dish’s savory profile. Its unique flavor complements the ahi tuna and balances the other ingredients, like soy sauce and sriracha.

• Red Onion 1/4 Cup

Red onion adds a mild, slightly sweet flavor and vibrant color to spicy ahi poke. Its crisp texture provides a pleasant crunch, complementing the soft, fresh tuna. The onion also helps balance the richness of the sesame oil and the heat from the spices.

• Scallions, Finely Chopped 2

Scallions (or green onions) offer a mild, fresh, and slightly peppery flavor. They add a crisp texture and a burst of color to spicy ahi poke. Their subtle sharpness complements the rich tuna and enhances the dish with a touch of freshness.

• Mayonnaise 2 Tbsp

Mayonnaise adds a creamy, rich texture to spicy ahi poke, balancing the heat from ingredients like sriracha. Its smooth consistency helps bind the fish and seasonings together, creating a more indulgent and flavorful dish while softening the spice.

• Sriracha Sauce 1–2 Tbsp 

Sriracha sauce is a spicy, tangy chili sauce made from red chili peppers, vinegar, garlic, and sugar. It adds heat and a slight sweetness to spicy ahi poke, enhancing the overall flavor profile with a bold, fiery kick that complements the fresh tuna.

Essential Equipments Spicy Ahi Poke

To make Spicy Ahi Poke, there are a few essential tools and equipment you’ll need to ensure the process goes smoothly and your poke is delicious. Here are 5 key pieces of equipment:

1. Sharp Knife

A sharp, high-quality knife is crucial for cutting the ahi tuna into clean, even cubes. You want the fish to be fresh and precise, so a dull knife can damage the texture of the fish.

2. Cutting Board

You’ll need a sturdy, non-porous cutting board (preferably plastic or bamboo) to chop the tuna and any other ingredients like vegetables, herbs, or seasonings.

3. Mixing Bowl

A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients. Make sure it’s big enough to toss the poke with the sauces and spices without making a mess.

4. Measuring Spoons

For precise measurements of seasonings, like soy sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha, measuring spoons ensure you get the right balance of flavors.

5. Spatula or Tongs

A spatula or pair of tongs will help you gently mix and coat the tuna with the sauces and seasonings. It keeps the fish intact while ensuring all the pieces are evenly flavored.

How to Make a Spicy Ahi Poke Bowl?

• Cut the tuna into small pieces about 1 inch in size. We prefer smaller cubes to bring out the flavor of the spicy mayonnaise.
• In a mixing bowl, add tuna, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil, one sliced scallion, and chopped red onions. 
• Refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
• To make the spicy mayo, whisk together the mayo, sriracha, and remaining chopped scallions until thoroughly combined.
• Once the tuna has chilled, carefully stir in the spicy mayo mixture until evenly coated.
• Serve with rice or on its own!

Best Marinades for Spicy Ahi

Here are some of the best marinades to elevate your Spicy Ahi Poke:

1. Classic Soy & Sesame Marinade

For a traditional, savory base, the Classic Soy & Sesame Marinade is a go-to. Combine soy sauce, sesame oil, a splash of rice vinegar, and a touch of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. Add grated ginger and garlic for an aromatic kick. This blend provides a balance of salty, umami, and a little sweetness, making it the perfect match for raw ahi tuna. Top it off with toasted sesame seeds for added texture.

2. Spicy Sriracha Mayo Marinade

If you’re after a creamy, spicy flavor profile, the Spicy Sriracha Mayo Marinade is ideal. Mix mayonnaise, sriracha, and sesame oil, then season with soy sauce and a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy kick. This marinade brings a rich, creamy texture with a satisfying heat. It’s a great choice for those who love a little more indulgence with their poke.

3. Ponzu & Chili Marinade

For a citrus-forward punch, try the Ponzu & Chili Marinade. Ponzu sauce, a tangy soy-citrus blend, is paired with chili flakes and a squeeze of lemon or lime juice. Add fresh green onions for extra sharpness. This marinade offers a bright, tart base with a spicy finish, perfect for a refreshing poke bowl.

4. Miso-Ginger Marinade

For an earthy, savory marinade, mix white miso paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger. Sweeten with a touch of honey and finish with sesame oil for depth. This marinade delivers umami richness with a warming spice, complementing the fish beautifully.

5. Citrus and Jalapeño Marinade

For a fresh and vibrant flavor, go for the Citrus and Jalapeño Marinade. Combine lime and orange juice with soy sauce, finely chopped jalapeños, and cilantro. This marinade gives a bright, tangy flavor with a spicy kick, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of ahi tuna.

Each marinade brings its own unique character, allowing you to tailor the flavor to your preference!

Final Words

For a tantalizing culinary experience that will awaken your taste buds, look no further than this Spicy Ahi Recipe. With its perfect blend of flavors and simple preparation, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or looking to try something new, this Spicy Ahi Recipe is a must-try for any occasion. Get ready to savor every bite of this delectable creation!

FAQs

How to Choose Sushi-Grade Ahi Tuna?

When choosing sushi-grade ahi tuna, look for bright, deep red color with a firm texture—avoid any with browning or mushiness. The fish should have a clean, oceanic smell; any off or fishy odor is a red flag. Make sure it’s flash-frozen to -20°F for at least 24 hours, which kills parasites. Freshness is key, so buy from a reputable source that sells specifically sushi-grade fish. Lastly, if possible, ask for cut thickness recommendations, as sushi-grade tuna should be sliced cleanly and evenly for the best texture and flavor.

Is Spicy Ahi Healthy? (Nutritional value & benefits)

Yes, spicy ahi can be a healthy option, especially when made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Ahi tuna is low in calories, high in lean protein, and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. The spicy elements like sriracha or chili add flavor without excessive calories. However, be mindful of the marinade ingredients; soy sauce can be high in sodium, and mayonnaise-based sauces add extra calories. To keep it healthier, use low-sodium soy sauce and opt for lighter, cleaner dressings. It’s a nutritious, flavorful choice when enjoyed in moderation!

What Is The Difference Between Poke And Ahi?

Poke refers to a traditional Hawaiian dish made from diced raw fish, usually ahi tuna, mixed with seasonings like soy sauce, sesame oil, and seaweed. It can include other ingredients like onions, avocado, or chili for added flavor.

Ahi, on the other hand, is the name of a specific type of fish, also known as yellowfin tuna. It’s a popular choice for poke due to its firm texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor. So, ahi is the fish, and poke is the dish, often made with ahi or other types of fresh fish.