Authentic Hawaiian Beef Stew (Local Style)
Hawaiian Beef Stew, also known as "local style beef stew," is a comforting, island-style dish that features slow-simmered beef in a rich, tomato-based broth. Unlike traditional American beef stew, this version incorporates a slightly sweet and tangy balance, often with carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. This hearty meal is best served with steamed white rice to soak up the flavorful sauce, making it a staple in many Hawaiian households.
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Ladle
- Bowl (for prepping vegetables and meat)
- Rice cooker (for steamed white rice, optional)
Ingredients
- For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1- inch piece of ginger minced (optional)
- 2 large carrots sliced
- 3 medium potatoes cut into chunks
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional
Instructions
- Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Beef:
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Brown the beef on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Build the Base:
- Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth.
- Season the Stew:
- Add soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce), sugar, salt, black pepper, bay leaf, and thyme.
- Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Simmer to Perfection:
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
- Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper.
- Continue simmering uncovered for another 30 minutes, until vegetables are soft and the broth has thickened slightly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Remove bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot over a bed of steamed white rice with Hawaiian sweet rolls on the side.
Notes
Make-Ahead Tip: This stew tastes even better the next day, so consider making it ahead of time.
Thicker Broth: If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the cooked potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry.
Slow Cooker Option: Brown the beef and sauté aromatics before transferring everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Spice it Up: Add a dash of Hawaiian chili pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Enjoy your authentic Hawaiian beef stew with its rich, comforting flavors—perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week! 🌺🍛
Thicker Broth: If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the cooked potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry.
Slow Cooker Option: Brown the beef and sauté aromatics before transferring everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Spice it Up: Add a dash of Hawaiian chili pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Enjoy your authentic Hawaiian beef stew with its rich, comforting flavors—perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week! 🌺🍛