Save to Pinterest Sweet-Heat Watermelon Poke is the ultimate summer refresher that reimagines classic poke using juicy watermelon cubes in a tangy-sweet spicy sauce. The quick toss of sriracha, soy, maple, and citrus wraps the fruit with umami depth, while black sesame and crispy onions bring savory crunch. Every bite is cool bright and delivers a little heat for those days when you want something light but full of flavor.
The first time I made this for a picnic, friends raved and not a single bite was left by the end. The sweet and spicy combo makes it totally crave worthy.
Ingredients
- Seedless watermelon: This makes the base and must be fresh choose one with a uniform dark green rind and a hollow sound when tapped for max juiciness
- Low sodium soy sauce: Adds a rich umami note look for naturally brewed for best flavor
- Pure maple syrup: Gives a silky sweetness balancing it all real pure syrup works best
- Sriracha: Packs a touch of heat start light if you are spice sensitive
- Toasted sesame oil: Delivers a nutty aroma to the dish cold pressed oil gives the deepest flavor
- Fresh lime juice: Brightens up the sauce always use freshly squeezed
- Black sesame seeds: Bring a toasty earthy crunch choose seeds with a glossy finish
- Crispy fried onions: Offer irresistible texture store bought works fine but homemade takes it up a notch
- Scallion: Sliced thin for an optional pop of sharpness pick firm and perky stalks
- Fresh cilantro or mint: Brings herby freshness snip just the leafy tops for best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl whisk together the soy sauce maple syrup sriracha toasted sesame oil and fresh lime juice until the mixture is smooth and blended well
- Coat the Watermelon:
- Add the watermelon cubes to the bowl Pour the sauce over and toss very gently to make sure every piece is evenly coated without crushing the fruit
- Plate and Garnish:
- Spoon the dressed watermelon into your serving dish or individual bowls making sure to drizzle any extra sauce over each portion
- Add the Crunch:
- Sprinkle a generous amount of black sesame seeds and crispy fried onions on top so each bite gets a bit of everything
- Garnish and Serve:
- Top with scallion slices and more fresh herbs if you like Serve right away for the freshest flavor and best crunch
Save to Pinterest I am obsessed with fresh watermelon in savory dishes It was my grandmother who taught me to sprinkle salt on fruit The first time I made this poke for family dinner it disappeared in minutes even my spice shy uncle wanted seconds
Storage Tips
Sweet-Heat Watermelon Poke is best served right after making it as the watermelon releases more juice over time. If you need to prepare ahead keep the sauce and toppings separate Store watermelon cubes and sauce in the fridge for up to eight hours but do not mix until ready to serve.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can easily swap the maple syrup for agave nectar or honey if not vegan. If you do not have black sesame seeds plain white sesame seeds work. For more protein add cubes of tofu or shelled edamame which both soak up the punchy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this poke as a bright appetizer or a side at a barbecue. Spoon it over chilled rice or leafy greens to create a poke bowl. For cocktail hour serve it in small cups with picks for easy snacking.
Cultural Context
This dish is inspired by Hawaiian poke which usually features raw fish but here ripe watermelon stands in for the traditional ingredient. Fusion approaches like this are common in modern poke shops allowing for playful plant-based takes without losing the essence of the dish.
Save to Pinterest Common Recipe Questions
- → How does the watermelon hold up with the sauce?
Watermelon absorbs the tangy-sweet flavors without becoming soggy. Toss gently and serve immediately for best freshness and texture.
- → Can I add protein to this dish?
Yes, cubed tofu or edamame are great options for added protein. They blend well with the sauce and keep the dish vegan and satisfying.
- → What are alternatives to maple syrup?
Agave nectar provides a similar sweetness and keeps it vegan. For non-vegan options, a squeeze of honey also works well in the sauce.
- → Are there any allergens in this dish?
The dish contains soy (from soy sauce) and sesame. Fried onions might have gluten; always check packaging labels and substitute as needed.
- → How should I serve this watermelon poke?
It stands out as an appetizer or salad, served chilled. For a heartier dish, serve over steamed rice or fresh greens and garnish with herbs.