Name: Delicious Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls Your Taste Buds Will Love
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 cup purple sticky rice (Can substitute with black or forbidden rice.); ½ cup seasoned rice wine vinegar (Substitute with apple cider vinegar if needed.); 1 teaspoon fine sea salt (Use kosher salt in a pinch.); 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (Brown sugar can serve as an alternative.); ½ cup high-quality mayonnaise (Greek yogurt is a lighter option.); 2 tablespoons sriracha (Use your favorite hot sauce for different spice levels.); 1 teaspoon dark sesame oil (Regular sesame oil will work in a pinch.); 1 tablespoon mirin (Can be replaced with a mix of sake and sugar.); 1 tablespoon sambal (Alternatively, use extra sriracha.); 4 ounces sushi-grade tuna (Can substitute with any sushi-grade fish or cooked octopus.); 4 ounces sushi-grade salmon; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon black and white sesame seeds (Feel free to omit.); 2 tablespoons scallions (Red onions can serve as a substitute.); as needed additional toppings (mango, edamame, avocado, etc.) (Customize with ingredients you love.)

Strolling through a bustling Hawaiian market, I stumbled upon vibrant displays of fresh fish and colorful produce, igniting my culinary imagination. That inspiration led me to create these Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls with Purple Sticky Rice, a dish that brings the essence of Hawaii right to your kitchen. With sushi-grade tuna and salmon served atop chewy, eye-catching purple rice, this recipe is not only a feast for the eyes, but it’s a healthy and customizable option for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick summer lunch or a fun dinner with friends, these bowls are bound to impress. Ready to dive into a burst of flavor and color? Let’s make your next meal unforgettable!

Why are Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls so popular?

Colorful and enticing, these bowls are a feast for the eyes! With fresh, sushi-grade fish, they’re perfect for those craving a healthy meal without sacrificing flavor. Customizable to fit any palate, you can throw in your favorite toppings like mango or edamame. Plus, they’re a breeze to prepare, making them a great option for quick weeknight dinners or summer gatherings. Elevate your culinary repertoire and impress your friends with this vibrant dish, reminiscent of a sunny day in Hawaii! If you’re also interested in quick meals, be sure to check out our Hibachi Steak Bowls or Spicy Salmon Arrabbiata for more delicious ideas!

Ingredients
• Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls Ingredients

For the Rice

Purple Sticky Rice – This beautiful rice adds a chewiness that complements the poke perfectly. Substitute with black or forbidden rice for a similar effect.
Seasoned Rice Wine Vinegar – Adds a tangy flavor that elevates the dish. Can be substituted with apple cider vinegar if needed.
Fine Sea Salt – Balances all the flavors without overpowering them. Use kosher salt in a pinch.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the rice vinegar mixture for a balanced taste. Brown sugar can serve as an alternative.

For the Spicy Mayo
High-Quality Mayonnaise – This creamy base makes the spicy mayo luxurious. Greek yogurt is a lighter option if you prefer.
Sriracha – Offers a punch of heat and flavor; alternatively, use your favorite hot sauce for different spice levels.
Dark Sesame Oil – Enhances the dish’s nutty flavor; regular sesame oil will work in a pinch.
Mirin – A sweet rice wine that adds depth to the poke; can be replaced with a mix of sake and sugar if necessary.
Sambal (or additional sriracha) – Intensifies the heat; don’t hesitate to switch with chili paste for more spice.

For the Poke Bowl
Sushi-Grade Tuna and Salmon – The stars of this dish that provide rich flavors and protein; you can use any sushi-grade fish or even cooked octopus in a bind.
Black and White Sesame Seeds – Perfect for garnishing and adding a little crunch. Feel free to omit if you’d like a simpler look.
Scallions – Offers a touch of fresh, mild onion flavor; red onions can easily step in as a substitute.
Additional toppings (mango, edamame, avocado, etc.) – Customize your bowl with ingredients that you love; these can amp up both flavor and nutrition.

These Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls are sure to dazzle your senses! Let’s gather these ingredients and jump into the exciting world of flavor and color!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls

Step 1: Prepare the Sushi Rice
Start by warming ½ cup of seasoned rice wine vinegar in a small saucepan over low heat until just warm. Stir in 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of fine sea salt until fully dissolved. Rinse 1 cup of purple sticky rice under cold water until it runs clear, then cook it in a rice cooker or an Instant Pot with the appropriate water-to-rice ratio according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once finished, transfer the rice to a bowl and fold in the vinegar mixture, allowing it to cool to room temperature.

Step 2: Make the Spicy Mayo
In a small bowl, combine ½ cup of high-quality mayonnaise with 2 tablespoons of sriracha, 1 teaspoon of dark sesame oil, and a dash of grated ginger for added flavor. Whisk the mixture until smooth and creamy, setting it aside for later use. This spicy mayo will add a delightful kick to your Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls, enhancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Step 3: Prepare the Poke
In a medium bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of mirin, 1 tablespoon of dark sesame oil, 1 tablespoon of sambal (or extra sriracha), and a pinch of sea salt. Cut your sushi-grade tuna and salmon into bite-sized cubes and gently fold them into the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 20 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls
Gather your ingredients for the Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls. Start by placing a generous scoop of the cooled purple sticky rice in the bottom of each bowl, creating a vibrant base. Evenly distribute the marinated poke onto the rice, followed by your preferred toppings, such as diced avocado, fresh mango, or edamame. Drizzle the spicy mayo over the top, and garnish with black and white sesame seeds and sliced scallions for a beautiful finish.

Expert Tips for Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls

Fresh Fish Is Key: Use only sushi-grade fish to ensure safety and great flavor. Freshness makes a world of difference in your poke bowls.
Avoid Over-Marinating: Keep the marinating time for your poke to about 20 minutes. Over-marinating can lead to mushy fish, compromising texture.
Rice Ratio Matters: For perfect purple sticky rice, maintain the recommended water-to-rice ratio. Too much water can lead to soggy rice, while too little can leave it undercooked.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap ingredients, but be cautious with strong flavors. Incorporating too many might overwhelm the balanced taste of Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls.
Prepare Ahead: If you’re short on time, cook the rice and make the spicy mayo in advance. Refrigerate them until ready to assemble, keeping your meal prep swift and stress-free.
Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of sesame seeds and sliced scallions not only enhances the dish’s appearance but adds extra flavor and crunch to your awesome poke bowls.

What to Serve with Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls

Pairing your Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls with the right sides will elevate your meal experience, creating a delightful feast for the senses.

Creamy Avocado Salad:
A refreshing side that adds creaminess and healthy fats, perfectly balancing the spice of the poke.
Crispy Garlic Edamame:
Roasted and tossed in garlic, these snacks bring a delightful crunch and protein boost, complementing the soft textures of the poke.
Mango Salsa:
Sweet and tangy, this salsa enhances the flavors of your poke with contrasting sweetness and freshness.
Chilled Cucumber Soup:
A cool and light dish that serves as a palate cleanser, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the rich fish.
Grilled Pineapple Skewers:
Caramelized sweetness of grilled pineapple adds a tropical element, harmonizing beautifully with the Hawaiian-inspired poke.
Coconut Rice:
Coconut-infused rice enhances the dish with creamy flavor, acting as a luxurious backdrop to the vibrant poke.
Sparkling Water with Lime:
For a stunning drink option, a refreshing sparkling water with a splash of lime compliments the richness of the dish without overpowering it.
Mochi Ice Cream:
A sweet treat to round off your meal, its chewy texture and varied flavors provide a delightful finish to your poke experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the sushi rice and spicy mayo up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a quick assembly on busy weeknights. To do this, cook the rice as directed, cool it to room temperature, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The spicy mayo can also be whisked together and kept refrigerated until you’re ready to use it. When you’re ready to serve, simply marinate the sushi-grade fish and assemble the bowls with your favorite toppings for a fresh and vibrant meal that tastes just as delicious, saving you time and effort in the kitchen!

Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize your Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls with these delightful variations that can enhance flavor and suit your preferences!

Dairy-Free: Substitute mayonnaise with silken tofu blended until smooth for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
A touch of lemon juice and seasonings can elevate it further, ensuring a delightful taste without any dairy products.
Vegan Version: Replace fish with marinated tofu or tempeh, and use chickpeas or edamame for protein.
This alteration keeps the essence of the poke bowl while being completely plant-based and just as satisfying.
Low-Carb: Opt for cauliflower rice in place of purple sticky rice.
It’s a great way to enjoy the dish with lower carbs while still maintaining a similar texture when seasoned well!
Fruity Twist: Top your bowls with fresh fruits like diced mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast.
The natural sweetness of the fruit balances the spicy elements, adding a delightful layer to each bite.
Heat Levels: Adjust the spice by swapping sriracha for a milder hot sauce, or omit it entirely for a non-spicy version.
You could also try adding jalapeños or chili flakes for those who adore the heat!
Nutty Flavor: Drizzle a bit of peanut sauce over the poke bowls for an added layer of flavor.
This nutty addition will create a lovely contrast to the freshness of the fish and veggies, making your meal even more exciting.
Crunch Factor: Incorporate crispy vegetables like radishes or fried shallots for texture.
This can elevate your salad with an irresistible crunch, making every bite more enjoyable.
Cooked Seafood: Switch out sushi-grade fish for grilled or roasted shrimp instead, infused with lime juice.
This twist retains the essence of seafood while offering a different cooking style that adds a smoky flavor.

Feel free to experiment with these ideas to create a Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowl that is uniquely yours! For more delicious recipes, don’t miss our Spicy Maple Chicken or try out our tasty Fish Taco Bowls for your next meal!

How to Store and Freeze Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls

Fridge: Store any leftover Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. This keeps the fish fresh while preventing cross-contamination with other odors.
Freezer: It’s best not to freeze assembled poke bowls as the texture of the fish and rice may be compromised. However, you can freeze marinated fish for up to 2 months; just thaw before using.
Reheating: If you’ve stored leftover rice separately, reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to moisten it. Avoid reheating the fish, as it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Serving: For the best taste, enjoy your poke bowls immediately after assembling. The vibrant flavors and textures shine when fresh!

Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right sushi-grade fish?
Absolutely! When choosing sushi-grade fish, look for bright, vibrant colors with a firm texture. The fish should have a clean ocean scent, not a fishy odor. Buy from reputable suppliers and ask about the fish’s freshness—ideally, it should have been caught within the last couple of days. Always check for visual cues like shiny skin and no dark spots.

How should I store leftover Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls?
For sure! Store any leftover Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This helps maintain freshness and keeps other odors from mingling with your delicious poke. Just remember to keep the spicy mayo separate if you want to preserve that lovely creaminess!

Can I freeze the fish for my poke bowls?
Very much! You can freeze marinated sushi-grade fish for up to 2 months. Here’s how: Place your marinated fish in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to freeze for about an hour. Then, transfer the fish to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before assembling your poke bowls.

What should I do if my rice turned out too sticky?
If your rice is too sticky, don’t worry! You can spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool slightly; this can help firm it up a bit. For next time, ensure you’re rinsing the rice thoroughly until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Additionally, check your water-to-rice ratio—1:1.5 should be perfect for purple sticky rice!

Is this recipe suitable for someone with a seafood allergy?
Of course! If you have a seafood allergy, you can still enjoy the flavors of poke bowls by substituting the seafood with protein alternatives like marinated tofu or grilled chicken. Additionally, focus on fresh vegetables like cucumbers, carrots, or avocado for a satisfying crunch.

How long can I keep the spicy mayo in the fridge?
You can keep homemade spicy mayo in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container. Simply whisk it again before using to ensure it’s perfectly creamy! If you need it for later, consider scaling down the recipe and using only what you’ll need for your Spicy Rainbow Poke Bowls.