Last Saturday, I went to Utrecht Zuilen, and learnt how to make a vegan pokebowl from Atse.
Japanese cuisine has gained a lot of popularity worldwide, and it is no surprise that many people are interested in learning how to cook Japanese dishes. Japan Fans are no exception, as they are a community of people who love everything about Japan, and regulary join as well as organise Japanese cooking and baking workshops in Utrecht.
Last Saturday, I went to Utrecht Zuilen, whereI learned how to make a vegan pokebowl from Atse, an all-round cook who also taught me how to make sushi and spring rolls in the past. This event was held in Atse’s new home, and it was a great opportunity to learn about Japanese cuisine and culture while having fun and making new friends.
Now, let’s talk about the vegan pokebowl. Poke is a Hawaiian dish that consists of diced raw fish, which is marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil. It is often served over rice and topped with various vegetables, such as avocado, cucumber, and seaweed. The dish has gained popularity in recent years and has become a staple in many restaurants around the world.
Pokebowl, on the other hand, is a variation of the original poke dish. It typically consists of a base of rice or salad, topped with marinated raw fish, tofu, or other protein sources, and various vegetables and sauces. The dish is often colorful, healthy, and customizable, making it a popular choice for those who are looking for a nutritious and tasty meal.
Although pokebowl originated in Hawaii, it has been influenced by Japanese cuisine. In fact, the word “poke” comes from the Hawaiian word “poki,” which means “to slice” or “to cut.” This technique of slicing fish is similar to the Japanese method of preparing sashimi, which is a dish of thinly sliced raw fish. But of course, you do not need fish and can also prepare a vegan pokebowl.
Additionally, many of the ingredients used in pokebowl are commonly found in Japanese cuisine, such as seaweed, soy sauce, and sesame oil. The dish also often includes toppings such as pickled ginger and wasabi, which are staples in Japanese cuisine.
Pokebowl is a delicious and healthy dish that has gained popularity around the world. Its roots can be traced back to Hawaii, but it has been influenced by Japanese cuisine, making it a unique fusion dish that combines the best of both worlds. When we realise our dream of opening our Japanese Cultural Centre in Utrecht, we will certainly invite Atse to teach us many more workshops there!
Have you ever tried to make pokebowl? Feel free to share your experiences and results in our Facebook Group.