If you’re craving a meal that’s as colorful as it is nourishing, the Watermelon Poke Bowl is a must-try. This innovative, plant-based dish reimagines the classic Hawaiian poke bowl by using succulent cubes of watermelon in place of raw tuna.
The result is a Watermelon Poke Bowl that bursts with freshness, vibrant flavors, and eye-catching appeal—ideal for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone eager to explore more plant-forward recipes.
Poke bowls have become a global favorite, loved for their versatility and the way they showcase fresh, wholesome ingredients. Traditionally, poke (pronounced “poh-kay”) consists of marinated raw fish—most often tuna or salmon—served over a bed of rice and topped with an array of crisp vegetables and savory garnishes. In this creative version, the fish is replaced with marinated and oven-roasted watermelon, delivering a unique texture and a punch of flavor that’s both surprising and satisfying.
Whether you’re a poke enthusiast or just discovering this trend, the watermelon poke bowl is sure to delight your taste buds. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and perfect for a light lunch or a filling dinner. Plus, it’s a fun and delicious way to enjoy watermelon beyond the usual summer slices.
Watermelon Poke Bowl: A Plant-Based Twist on a Hawaiian Classic
- Total Time: 3hours hours 15minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Watermelon poke bowl: a healthy, plant-based recipe with marinated watermelon, tofu, and fresh veggies. Colorful and delicious!
Ingredients
For the watermelon poke:
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari if gluten free)
- 2 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or sweetener of your choice)
- 2 teaspoon finely grated ginger
- Pinch chilli flakes
- Half large watermelon rind removed (approx. 1 kg or 2.2 lb of watermelon flesh)
To serve:
- 300 g firm tofu (one pack)
- Oil for frying
- 4 cups cooked brown rice
- 2 cups frozen edamame beans (podded)
- 3 radishes thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber thinly sliced
- 1 avocado thinly sliced
- Pickled ginger
- Toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
Mix watermelon poke ingredients together in a large mixing bowl (everything but the watermelon). Cube the watermelon, then toss in the marinade. Strain the watermelon, making sure to keep the marinade, and spread the watermelon in a single layer in a large roasting dish.
Bake watermelon for 45 minutes, until it has shrunk and become firmer – but is not browned. While still hot, scoop the baked watermelon back into the bowl of marinade and refrigerate until cold. This can be done up to a day ahead of time.
When ready to serve, drain the tofu, cube and fry until golden brown on all sides. Drain on paper towels and season with a little salt. Cook edamame beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and refresh under cold water. Drain the watermelon and reserve the marinade to use as dressing.
In bowls, top cooked brown rice (hot or cold) with drained watermelon poke, fried tofu, edamame beans, sliced radish, cucumber and avocado. Add a little pickled ginger and a scattering of sesame seeds, and serve reserved marinade on the side as a dressing. A drizzle of kewpie mayo doesn’t go amiss here either.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 624kcal
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 832mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 89g
- Fiber: 14g
- Protein: 25g
Keywords: Watermelon poke bowl
Ingredients & What’s Typically in a Watermelon Poke Bowl
What Goes Into a Classic Poke Bowl?
At its heart, a traditional poke bowl is a Hawaiian specialty built around cubes of raw fish—typically tuna or salmon—soaked in a flavorful marinade. This marinated fish is served atop a bed of rice and finished with an array of vibrant, crisp toppings. Common additions include sliced cucumber, creamy avocado, protein-rich edamame, tangy pickled ginger, crunchy radishes, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. A final drizzle of soy sauce or a rich, creamy dressing ties all the elements together, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor and texture.
The true beauty of Watermelon Poke Bowl lies in their adaptability. You can easily swap out proteins, grains, and toppings to match your preferences or dietary needs. This flexibility is what makes the watermelon poke bowl such an exciting and inventive plant-based option.
Ingredients for Watermelon Poke Bowl
To make this refreshing and nourishing Watermelon Poke Bowl, you’ll need a combination of everyday pantry items and fresh produce. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Watermelon Poke:
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free version)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (or your favorite sweetener)
- 2 teaspoons finely grated ginger
- Pinch of chili flakes
- Half a large watermelon, rind removed (about 1 kg or 2.2 lbs of watermelon flesh)
For Serving:
- 300 g firm tofu (one block)
- Oil for frying
- 4 cups cooked brown rice
- 2 cups frozen edamame beans (shelled)
- 3 radishes, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, thinly sliced
- Pickled ginger
- Toasted sesame seeds
When combined, these ingredients create a Watermelon Poke Bowl that’s not only a feast for the eyes but also loaded with plant-based protein, essential nutrients, and a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating a watermelon poke bowl at home is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps to bring this vibrant, plant-based dish to your table:
- Prepare the Watermelon Poke Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce (or tamari), rice vinegar, lemon juice, sesame oil, brown sugar, grated ginger, and a pinch of chili flakes. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and the marinade is fragrant.
- Marinate the Watermelon
Remove the rind from half a large watermelon and cut the flesh into bite-sized cubes. Add the watermelon cubes to the marinade, tossing gently to coat each piece. Let the watermelon soak up the flavors for a few minutes.
- Roast the Watermelon
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Using a slotted spoon, transfer the marinated watermelon cubes to a large roasting dish, spreading them out in a single layer. Reserve the marinade for later use. Roast the watermelon for about 45 minutes, or until the cubes have shrunk and become firmer, but not browned. This step helps concentrate the flavors and gives the watermelon a texture reminiscent of marinated fish.
- Chill the Watermelon
While the watermelon is still hot, return it to the bowl with the reserved marinade. Cover and refrigerate until completely chilled. You can do this step up to a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Prepare the Tofu
Drain the firm tofu and cut it into cubes. Heat a little oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the tofu cubes until golden brown on all sides, then transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
- Cook the Edamame
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add the frozen edamame beans. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
- Assemble the Bowls
To build your poke bowls, start with a base of cooked brown rice (served hot or cold, as you prefer). Arrange the chilled watermelon poke, crispy tofu, edamame beans, sliced radishes, cucumber, and avocado on top. Add a small mound of pickled ginger and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy
Drizzle some of the reserved marinade over the bowl as a dressing. For an extra creamy touch, add a swirl of kewpie mayo if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade, plant-based watermelon poke bowl!
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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
What is the point of a poke bowl?
The main idea behind a poke bowl is to create a balanced, nourishing meal that’s both satisfying and customizable. Poke bowls combine a base (usually rice), a protein (traditionally raw fish, but here we use watermelon and tofu), and a variety of fresh toppings. This combination delivers a mix of flavors, textures, and nutrients in every bite. Poke bowls are also a fun way to enjoy a variety of vegetables and proteins, making them a popular choice for healthy eating.
Is a poke bowl healthy or not?
Yes, poke bowls are generally considered healthy, especially when made with wholesome ingredients. They typically include lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables. In this plant-based version, you get the added benefits of fiber-rich brown rice, protein-packed tofu and edamame, and a rainbow of fresh veggies. Watermelon adds hydration and natural sweetness, while the marinade brings flavor without excess calories. As always, the healthiness of your poke bowl depends on your choice of toppings and dressings.
Is watermelon and soy sauce good?
Surprisingly, yes! Watermelon and soy sauce make a delicious pairing. The salty, umami notes of soy sauce complement the natural sweetness and juiciness of watermelon, creating a unique flavor profile. When marinated and roasted, watermelon takes on a firmer texture and absorbs the savory flavors, making it a fantastic plant-based alternative to fish in poke bowls.
Conclusion
The Watermelon Poke Bowl is a celebration of creativity, flavor, and wholesome ingredients. By transforming simple watermelon into a savory, marinated centerpiece, this recipe offers a delightful plant-based alternative to the traditional poke bowl. It’s proof that healthy eating can be both exciting and satisfying, with every bite delivering a burst of freshness and a satisfying mix of textures.
Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking to add more colorful meals to your table, this Watermelon Poke Bowl is sure to become a favorite. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for meal prep, and endlessly customizable to suit your tastes. Plus, it’s a fun way to surprise friends and family with a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
So next time you’re craving something light, nourishing, and a little bit different, give this Watermelon Poke Bowl a try. You might just discover a new go-to recipe for lunch, dinner, or any time you want to enjoy the best of plant-based eating.
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