Irresistible Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe

Hawaiian cuisine is a beautiful blend of cultures, influenced by Polynesian, Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, and American culinary traditions. Among the many beloved comfort foods, Hawaiian Beef Stew holds a special place. This dish, found in local diners, plate lunch spots, and family gatherings, is cherished for its rich tomato-based broth, tender chunks of beef, and hearty vegetables. Unlike traditional mainland stews, which rely on thick gravies, Hawaiian-style beef stew features a lighter yet deeply flavorful tomato sauce, making it uniquely delicious and perfect with rice.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into an authentic Hawaiian beef stew recipe, covering ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, tips for the best flavor, serving suggestions, and exciting variations. Whether you’re cooking for your family or looking to recreate the flavors of Hawaii at home, this guide will ensure you achieve the perfect local-style beef stew.

The History of Hawaiian Beef Stew

Hawaiian Beef Stew, also known as “local beef stew,” traces its roots back to the plantation era, when immigrants from around the world brought their culinary traditions to Hawaii. Over time, these diverse influences merged with local ingredients, creating dishes that are now staples in Hawaiian cuisine.

This Hawaiian Beef Stew recipe became a favorite because Hawaiians love hearty, comforting meals. It’s a popular choice at local plate lunch spots, typically served with steamed rice and sometimes mac salad. Unlike American or European beef stews, which rely on flour-based thickening agents like roux, Hawaiian-style beef stew features a lighter yet deeply flavorful tomato broth, making it perfect for soaking up with rice.

Ingredients for Hawaiian Beef Stew

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s go over the essential ingredients that make Hawaiian beef stew so flavorful.

Main Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for searing the meat)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (adds a subtle umami flavor)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika (adds a touch of smokiness)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for a slightly sweeter balance)

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

• 1/2 cup red wine (for depth of flavor)
• 1 tbsp Hawaiian sea salt (for an authentic island touch)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (for a bit of heat)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (adds sweetness and color)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Hawaiian Beef Stew

Step 1: Searing the Beef for Maximum Flavor

1. Heat the Oil – In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the Beef – Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Let them sear for about 3–4 minutes on each side until browned. This caramelization enhances the stew’s depth of flavor.
3. Remove and Set Aside – Once all the beef is browned, transfer it to a plate and set it aside.

Pro Tip: Avoid moving the beef around too much while searing. Letting it develop a crust will lock in flavor and prevent the meat from becoming dry.

Step 2: Building the Flavor Base

4. Sauté the Aromatics – In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook over medium heat until they turn soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
5. Add the Garlic – Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
6. Stir in the Tomato Paste – Add 3 tablespoons of tomato paste and stir well, cooking for 2 minutes to remove the raw taste.

Pro Tip: Cooking the tomato paste briefly helps enhance its sweetness and reduces acidity.

Step 3: Creating the Stew Base

7. Deglaze the Pot – Pour in the beef broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These add extra flavor!
8. Return the Beef – Add the browned beef back to the pot.
9. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings – Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, and bay leaf.
10. Simmer Gently – Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, partially covered.

Pro Tip: The longer the beef simmers, the more tender it becomes!

Step 4: Adding Vegetables and Finishing Touches

11. Add the Carrots, Potatoes, and Celery – Stir in the chopped vegetables and continue cooking for another 30–40 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender.
12. Taste and Adjust – Remove the bay leaf, taste the stew, and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the stew is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for an additional 10–15 minutes to reduce and thicken.
13. Optional: Add Peas – If you’re using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Serving the Stew

• Traditional Hawaiian Style – Serve the stew hot over steamed white rice.
• Garnish – For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or green onions on top.

Pro Tip: Hawaiian beef stew tastes even better the next day! The flavors deepen overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.

Tips for the Best Hawaiian Beef Stew

• Use the Right Cut of Beef – Chuck roast or stew meat works best, as these cuts become tender and flavorful after slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts, as they may dry out.
• Simmer Low and Slow – Cooking at a low temperature for an extended period helps break down the collagen in the meat, making it melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Balance Acidity and Sweetness – The tomatoes give the stew a slightly tangy taste. If it’s too acidic, add 1 tsp of sugar to balance the flavors.
• Enhance Umami – A dash of fish sauce or soy sauce can enhance the depth of flavor, making the stew taste richer.
• Make it in a Slow Cooker – Brown the beef first, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. Add the vegetables in the last 2 hours.

Hawaiian Beef Stew Variations

Hawaiian beef stew is versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Here are some fun variations you might want to try:

1. Spicy Hawaiian Beef Stew

If you love a little heat, add:

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes or 1 chopped Hawaiian chili pepper
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (like Sriracha or Tabasco)
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper for extra spice

2. Pineapple-infused Hawaiian Beef Stew

For a subtle sweetness, try adding:

• ½ cup crushed pineapple or pineapple juice
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (balances acidity)

Pro Tip: Pineapple juice naturally tenderizes the beef due to its enzymes. Add it near the end of cooking to prevent over-softening the meat.

3. Hawaiian Beef Stew with Coconut Milk

To add a creamy, island-style twist, stir in:

• ½ cup coconut milk during the last 15 minutes of cooking

This variation makes the stew richer and slightly tropical, pairing beautifully with jasmine rice.

4. Gluten-Free & Low-Carb Hawaiian Beef Stew

• Skip the potatoes and replace them with cauliflower chunks or turnips.
• Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Thicken with arrowroot powder instead of flour.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Beef Stew

1. Steamed White Rice

This is the classic Hawaiian way to enjoy beef stew. The slightly sticky rice soaks up the flavorful tomato-based broth beautifully.

2. Hawaiian Sweet Rolls

Soft, fluffy, and slightly sweet, Hawaiian rolls are perfect for dipping into the stew.

3. Macaroni Salad

A traditional Hawaiian plate lunch often includes a side of creamy mac salad. The cool, tangy mayo-based dressing balances the warm, hearty stew.

4. Pickled Onions or Kimchi

A little acidity from pickled onions or spicy kimchi can cut through the richness of the stew and enhance its flavors.

5. Fried Plantains

For a Caribbean-Hawaiian fusion, try serving your stew with lightly fried plantains for a hint of sweetness.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Hawaiian Beef Stew

1. What makes Hawaiian beef stew different from regular beef stew?

Unlike traditional beef stew, which often uses a flour-thickened gravy, Hawaiian beef stew has a light, tomato-based broth that is less heavy but equally flavorful. It’s also served with rice instead of bread.

2. Can I make Hawaiian beef stew in an Instant Pot?

Yes! To make it in an Instant Pot (pressure cooker):

• Sear the beef using the Sauté function.
• Add all ingredients (except potatoes and carrots).
• Pressure cook on high for 35 minutes.
• Quick-release, then stir in potatoes and carrots.
• Cook on high for 10 more minutes, then let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.

3. How do I store and reheat Hawaiian beef stew?

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if it’s too thick.

4. Why is my beef tough?

Tough beef means it hasn’t cooked long enough. Chuck roast and stew meat need at least 2 hours of slow cooking to become tender. Keep simmering on low heat!

5. Can I make this stew vegetarian?

Yes! Replace beef with:

• Mushrooms (like shiitake or portobello)
• Firm tofu or tempeh
• Jackfruit (for a meaty texture)
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth

6. What Seasoning Is in Hawaiian Beef Stew?

Hawaiian Beef Stew is flavored with a combination of savory, umami-rich, and aromatic seasonings that enhance its depth. The key seasonings include:

• Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
• Garlic & Onion – Adds a robust, aromatic base.
• Paprika – Provides a mild smokiness and color.
• Oregano & Bay Leaf – Infuses the stew with earthy and herbal notes.
• Soy Sauce & Worcestershire Sauce – Brings umami depth, a signature twist in Hawaiian-style stews.
• Sugar (Optional) – A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

7. What Is the Secret Ingredient in a Stew?

The “secret ingredient” in a stew often depends on the cook, but for Hawaiian Beef Stew, some special additions can elevate the flavor:
Hawaiian Sea Salt – Adds an authentic island touch.
Pineapple Juice or Brown Sugar – A subtle sweetness balances the tangy tomato base.
Red Wine – Deepens the stew’s richness.
A Dash of Coffee or Cocoa Powder – Enhances the umami flavors for a bolder taste.

8. What Is the Secret to Tender Beef Stew?

The key to fall-apart tender beef in Hawaiian Beef Stew lies in slow cooking and choosing the right cut:

• Use the Right Cut – Chuck roast or stew meat is ideal because it has more connective tissue, which breaks down into gelatin and keeps the meat tender.
• Sear the Meat First – Browning locks in flavor and caramelizes the surface.
• Low and Slow Cooking – Simmering for at least 2 hours (or using a slow cooker) allows the beef to break down and become fork-tender.
• Don’t Boil the Stew – Boiling can toughen the meat. Keep it at a gentle simmer for the best texture.
• Add Acidic Ingredients Later – Tomatoes and wine can slow down meat tenderization, so add them after the first hour of cooking.

9. What to Add to Beef Stew to Make It Amazing?

If you want to take Hawaiian Beef Stew to the next level, try these flavor boosters:

• Fish Sauce or Miso Paste – Adds a deep, savory umami kick.
• Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Bay Leaf, or Basil) – Infuses aroma and freshness.
• Roasted Garlic – A sweeter, caramelized alternative to raw garlic.
• Parmesan Rind – Simmering a cheese rind adds subtle richness.
• A Splash of Coconut Milk – Introduces a creamy, tropical twist.

These secret ingredients and techniques will ensure your Hawaiian Beef Stew is bursting with flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness!

Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Beef Stew

Hawaiian beef stew is the ultimate island comfort food, offering rich, hearty flavors in a delicious tomato-based broth. Whether you’re cooking for family, or friends, or meal prepping, this stew will transport you to the islands with every bite.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can make an authentic Hawaiian beef stew that rivals the ones found in local Hawaiian diners and plate lunch spots. Plus, with fun variations, you can customize it to match your taste!

So, grab your ingredients, start cooking, and bring a taste of Hawaiian warmth and hospitality into your home!