Hoedoep-bap is distinguished from other raw fish salads by the overlying sauce, a blend of the Korean pepper paste gochujang, which is thoroughly mixed into the bowl before the first bites are taken. The gochujang sauce is spicy, a little sweet, and bold in flavor, making it an excellent option for diverse cuts of fish with characteristics like sinew, irregular shape, or oxidization.

Poke is a feast for the eye as well as the taste buds, with the attractive variety of vegetables and seafood that can be used. It’s a very approachable way to eat raw fish, and inherently customizable. Curb your habit of purchasing poke, and learn to make it yourself if you have the luxury of access to locally landed sushi-grade tuna!