Introduction
Hawaiian Beef Stew is a heartwarming dish that brings the flavors of the islands straight to your kitchen. Unlike traditional beef stews, this local-style favorite features a rich, tomato-based broth, tender chunks of beef, and perfectly simmered vegetables. It’s a dish loved by many in Hawaii, often enjoyed at home or served as part of a classic Hawaiian plate lunch.
What makes this stew special is its simple yet bold flavors. Instead of using a heavy, flour-thickened gravy, the stew gets its depth from tomatoes, soy sauce, and slow-cooked beef, creating a naturally rich and hearty broth. It’s a true comfort food that warms the soul with every spoonful.
Whether you grew up eating this dish or you’re trying it for the first time, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. The best part? You only need five simple steps to bring this island classic to life!
What is Hawaiian Beef Stew?
Hawaiian Beef Stew, or “local-style beef stew,” is a comforting dish deeply rooted in Hawaiian home cooking. While it shares similarities with traditional beef stews, the Hawaiian version is distinctively tomato-based, giving it a slightly tangy, rich, and hearty flavor.
Unlike other stews that use thick gravies or wine-based sauces, Hawaiian Beef Stew relies on stewed tomatoes, beef broth, and simple seasonings to create a flavorful, vibrant sauce. The beef is slow-cooked until fork-tender, and the addition of potatoes, carrots, and onions makes this dish a complete and satisfying meal.
A Taste of Hawaii in Every Bite
Hawaiian cuisine is a beautiful blend of cultures, and this dish reflects that fusion. With influences from American, Filipino, and Japanese cooking, it has become a beloved staple served everywhere—from Hawaiian households to local diners and lunch plates across the islands.
Served over a bed of steamed white rice, this dish is the definition of comfort food. Every bite brings warmth, nostalgia, and the unmistakable flavors of Hawaii.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the perfect Hawaiian Beef Stew, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the rich, comforting taste of this island classic.
🛒 Essential Ingredients:
✔ Beef chuck roast (2 lbs) – Cut into chunks; this cut becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
✔ Salt & black pepper (to taste) – Enhances the beef’s natural flavor.
✔ Cooking oil (2 tbsp) – Used for browning the beef, which adds depth to the stew.
✔ Yellow onion (1 large, diced) – Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
✔ Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Infuses the stew with bold, aromatic flavor.
✔ Tomato paste (2 tbsp) – Deepens the tomato-based sauce.
✔ Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz) – The key to the stew’s signature tangy base.
✔ Beef broth (4 cups) – Provides rich, hearty flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
✔ Carrots (3 large, sliced) – Adds natural sweetness and texture.
✔ Potatoes (3 medium, diced) – Thickens the stew and makes it extra hearty.
✔ Soy sauce (2 tbsp) – Brings umami depth and enhances overall flavor.
✔ Bay leaves (2) – Infuse the broth with subtle herbal notes.
✔ Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp) – Adds a slight tang and depth of flavor.
🔄 Ingredient Substitutions & Additions
✅ Want a deeper flavor? Add a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
✅ Gluten-free? Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
✅ Prefer a thicker stew? Stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water) in the last 10 minutes.
✅ Want a true Hawaiian twist? Some local variations include sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a delicious Hawaiian Beef Stew with tender beef and a rich, flavorful broth.
🔥 Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat 2 tbsp of cooking oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef chunks with salt and black pepper, then add them to the pot.
- Sear the beef on all sides until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove the beef and set it aside.
🔥 Pro Tip: Browning the beef first locks in flavor and creates a richer stew base.
🧄 Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add diced onions and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
🍅 Step 3: Build the Broth
- Add tomato paste and stir for 1 minute to enhance its deep flavor.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth.
- Return the browned beef chunks to the pot.
- Toss in the bay leaves, then bring everything to a gentle boil.
🕰 Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Stir occasionally and check for tenderness—when the beef easily pulls apart, it’s ready.
🔥 Pro Tip: If the broth reduces too much, add a little more beef broth or water.
🥕 Step 5: Add the Vegetables
- Stir in the carrots and potatoes, then continue simmering for 30 minutes, or until vegetables are soft.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
🍽 Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove bay leaves, then ladle the stew into bowls.
- Serve hot with steamed white rice for a true Hawaiian experience.
Tips & Variations
Want to take your Hawaiian Beef Stew to the next level? Here are some expert tips and fun variations to customize this dish to your liking!
🔥 Pro Tips for the Best Hawaiian Beef Stew
✅ Brown the Beef Well – Searing the beef before simmering locks in flavor and adds richness to the broth.
✅ Low & Slow Cooking – Simmering for 1.5 to 2 hours ensures the beef turns melt-in-your-mouth tender.
✅ Taste & Adjust Seasoning – As the stew cooks, flavors develop. Adjust salt, soy sauce, or Worcestershire sauce to your preference.
✅ Let It Rest – For even better flavor, let the stew sit for 15-20 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
🍲 Hawaiian Beef Stew Variations
🥔 Classic Hawaiian Style
✔ Stick with potatoes, carrots, and onions for a traditional, home-cooked taste.
🥥 Hawaiian Fusion (Coconut Beef Stew)
✔ Stir in ½ cup of coconut milk at the end for a tropical, creamy twist.
🍠 Sweet Potato Stew
✔ Swap regular potatoes for Hawaiian purple sweet potatoes for added sweetness and color.
🥩 Slow Cooker Version
✔ Brown the beef, then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours.
⚡ Instant Pot Quick Version
✔ Use the Sauté function to brown the beef, then pressure cook on HIGH for 35 minutes, followed by a natural release.
FAQs About Hawaiian Beef Stew
Got questions? Here are answers to the most common ones about making the perfect Hawaiian Beef Stew.
❓ 1. What cut of beef is best for Hawaiian Beef Stew?
The best cut is beef chuck roast because it becomes tender when slow-cooked. Other good options include brisket or short ribs.
❓ 2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, Hawaiian Beef Stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
❓ 3. Can I freeze Hawaiian Beef Stew?
Absolutely! Let the stew cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
❓ 4. How do I thicken the stew if it’s too thin?
If your stew is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it in. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened.
❓ 5. What should I serve with Hawaiian Beef Stew?
The classic way to serve this dish is with steamed white rice, but you can also enjoy it with Hawaiian sweet rolls or a side of mac salad. If you love hearty, one-pot meals, try our Chicken Goulash Recipe for another delicious comfort dish!
❓ 6. Can I use a different protein instead of beef?
Yes! You can make a Hawaiian-style chicken stew by using boneless chicken thighs instead of beef.
❓ 7. What gives Hawaiian Beef Stew its unique flavor?
The secret lies in its tomato-based broth, soy sauce, and slow-simmered beef, which create a rich, savory, and slightly tangy flavor.
Conclusion & Call to Action
Now that you know how to make Hawaiian Beef Stew, it’s time to bring a taste of the islands to your table! This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or simply enjoying a warm, homemade meal. With its rich tomato-based broth, slow-simmered beef, and perfectly cooked vegetables, it’s no wonder this stew is a favorite across Hawaii.
This dish is best enjoyed with steamed rice, but feel free to customize it to your liking. Whether you try the classic recipe or experiment with sweet potatoes or coconut milk, each variation offers a unique twist while maintaining that signature island-style flavor.
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out! Did you add your own twist? Have any tips to share? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you!
🥄 Looking for more delicious comfort food? If you love hearty, one-pot meals, try our Chicken Goulash Recipe next! Or explore other easy-to-make dishes on EasyOnlineRecipe.com for more inspiration!