In 2019, there was a staggering 365% increase in poke bowl deliveries.
We’re fantatics about this delicious dish especially when you choose nutritious ingredients. Perhaps you’re about to try it for the first time but you’re wondering “is poke healthy?”
Sound familiar? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Here’s how to order a wholesome bowl of poke.
What Is Poke?
“What is poke?” You ask.
Considered healthy Hawaiian food, a traditional poke dish consists of raw fish, sea salt, and a Kukui nuts garnish. Nowadays, poke has evolved to suit a variety of tastes but mostly includes raw fish, veggies, rice, and a layer of seasoning.
How to Make Poke Healthy
Although most variations are healthy, you can elevate the nutritional value to suit your tastebuds. Whether you’re learning how to make a poke bowl to visiting a restaurant, there are certain elements of the dish to focus on. For instance:
Load up on Protein and Fiber
If you’re concerned about poke bowl nutrition, then make sure you add protein- and fiber-rich ingredients. Choose a lean protein like salmon, ahi tuna, or scallops. Not a fan of fish? Then add chicken or a vegan option like tofu.
Fiber is essential because your body feels satisfied and full without consuming too many calories. To reap these benefits, add brown rice, quinoa, or soba noodles for your base as they’re packed with fiber.
Pile On Veggies
Whether you’re after healthy Asian food or a poke bowl, veggies are the key to a nutrient-rich meal. Make sure you add green vegetables like baby spinach, beets, zucchini, and carrots so you get plenty of vitamins. And don’t forget seaweed as it’s packed with micronutrients.
Don’t Add Too Much Rice
Although rice makes a great base, don’t go overboard. To keep the dish healthy, limit yourself to one cup of rice as it contains around 50 grams of carbs, the perfect amount. Any higher and you risk going over your daily carb intake.
Limit the Amount of Sauce
It’s tempting to drench your poke bowl in sauce whether it’s soy or a mayo-based alternative. But if you do this, you’re increasing your sodium intake. To avoid this, ask for half of the typical serving of sauce so you can still enjoy the taste but with fewer calories.
If you’re after a healthy bowl, visit Steve’s Poke Bar as they have a wide variety of dishes including vegan-friendly options.
Is Poke Healthy?
Now you know the answer to “is poke healthy?”
Poke is a nutritious dish when you add ingredients high in protein, fiber, and other essential vitamins. Like with every meal, limit the high-calorie elements like sauce so it remains healthy. The best part of poke bowls is how you can change the protein or base depending on your mood. Bon appétit!
Hopefully, you found this article helpful. If you’re interested in similar content, check out our posts on everything from Lifestyle and Food.
Author Name: Ester Adams
Author Bio: Ester Adams is a farmer of words in the field of creativity. She is an experienced independent content writer with a demonstrated history of working in the writing and editing industry. She is a multi-niche content chef who loves cooking new things.
