MERRIMAN'S KAPALUA 

MERRIMAN'S KAPALUA | Wok Charred Ahi

I am so pleased to bring you this recipe from Merriman's Kapalua, which opened to rave reviews. Chef and Restaurateur Peter Merriman, pioneered Hawaii Regional Cuisine, using 90% local product in his dishes--a standard which is unsurpassed within the Hawaii culinary world. Merriman's award winning cuisine is fresh from local fisherman and farms, often picked in the morning and served in the evening. In addition to the freshest island fare, Merriman's offers an eclectic wine list with more than 200 bottle selections.

Renovated with an understated elegance, Merriman's Kapalua is located at the premises of the former Bay Club, on Kapalua Bay--one of Maui's most beloved and spectacular oceanfront locations. I heartily recommend Merriman's as the best spot on the island to enjoy one of Maui's incredible sunsets. The outdoor lanai features firepits and tables serving pupus (try the sliders, you won't regret it), overlooking Kapalua Bay.

When fortunate enough to dine here, my personal favorites are the Butter Poached Keahole Lobster and the Wok Charred Ahi (recipe follows!).  Don't miss Merriman's take on malasadas--a Portuguese desert that you'll find in Maui's local bakeries--magnificent!

You can visit Merriman's Kapalua for sunset cocktails and pupus or dinner at One Bay Club Place, Lahaina, HI.  Don't miss special events such as their monthly wine tastings.  www.merrimanshawaii.com

Merriman's Original Wok Charred Ahi
With Napa Cabbage Slaw and Wasabi-Soy

serves 4

WOK CHARRED AHI MARINADE

  • 2 premium sashimi-style cuts of Ahi
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 tsp chopped shallots
  • 2 tsp fresh grated ginger
  • 2 tsp crushed garlic
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried marjoram
  • 1 tsp crushed, dried chilis
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 lemon, juice

METHOD

  • Mix all ingredients together
  • To use, roll two, sashimi-style cuts of Ahi in marinade, and sear in a hot wok or hot skillet, 30 seconds a side. Slice and serve with Dipping Sauce and Slaw.

DIPPING SAUCE FOR WOK CHARRED AHI

  • 2 tbs wasabi powder
  • 2 tbs water
  • 1 cup Yamasa shoyu
  • 1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup mirin (Japanese sweet cooking wine)

METHOD

  • Make a thick paste with the water and wasabi powder. Add the shoyu, lemon juice and mirin and mix well.

SLAW FOR WOK CHARRED AHI (makes 3 portions)

  • 1-1/2 ups Chinese cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup mung bean sprouts
  • 1/2 cup Bermuda onion, thinly slided
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

METHOD

  • Slice as directed and mix all ingredients together.
  • Chill until ready to serve

PLATING

  • Divide slaw into three portions.
  • Top with seared, sliced Ahi.  

This is a fantastic appetizer or can be served as an entree. Merriman's offers this exquisite dish with Black & White rice.

Merriman's Original Wok Charred Ahi is courtesy of Merriman's Kapalua
One Bay Club Place, Lahaina, HI 96761 * www.merrimanshawaii.com * 808.669.6400