Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe

Hawaiian Beef Stew, also known locally as “local-style beef stew”, is a comforting, hearty dish that reflects Hawaii’s multicultural food history. It’s similar to traditional beef stew but features a sweet-savory tomato base and island-style ingredients that set it apart. This stew is rich in flavor, loaded with tender beef chunks, and balanced with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and sometimes celery.

Unlike Western-style beef stew that often leans into wine reductions or broths, Hawaiian-style beef stew typically uses tomato sauce, a bit of soy sauce (shoyu), and sometimes sugar or pineapple juice to add a unique tropical depth.

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History and Origins of Hawaiian Beef Stew

Hawaiian beef stew is a product of Hawaii’s plantation-era culinary evolution. Influences from Portuguese, Chinese, Filipino, and native Hawaiian cooking have contributed to its flavor and preparation style. During the early 20th century, plantation workers brought together cooking styles and ingredients that were accessible, affordable, and nutritious.

“Hawaiian beef stew is more than a meal; it’s a cultural memory served in a bowl.” — Local Hawaiian Chef Peter Kim

The use of tomato sauce rather than beef stock or wine was partly due to accessibility and taste preference, leading to a tangier, slightly sweet flavor that islanders love to this day.

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Ingredients for Hawaiian Beef Stew

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Beef chuck	2 lbs	Cut into 1-inch cubes
Onion	1 large	Diced
Garlic	4 cloves	Minced
Carrots	3	Cut into 1-inch chunks
Potatoes	3-4 medium	Cubed
Celery (optional)	2 stalks	Sliced
Tomato sauce	1 (15 oz) can	For the rich base
Tomato paste	2 tbsp	Adds thickness and richness
Water or broth	2-3 cups	Depending on desired thickness
Salt & Pepper	To taste	For seasoning

Hawaiian Touch Ingredients

• Shoyu (soy sauce): Adds umami depth
• Sugar or pineapple juice: Adds signature sweetness
• Bay leaf: Optional, adds herbal depth

Ingredient Substitutions

• Beef alternative: Use chicken thighs or even tofu for a vegetarian version
• Tomato alternatives: Try crushed tomatoes or marinara
• Gluten-free?: Use tamari instead of soy sauce

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How to Make Hawaiian Beef Stew

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Chop all vegetables and meat into even, bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and a nice presentation. Trim any excess fat from the beef.

Tip: Let beef rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before searing for better browning.

Step 2: Sauté and Sear

1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large pot.
2. Brown the beef on all sides, working in batches.
3. Set beef aside, then sauté onions and garlic in the same pot until soft and aromatic.

Browning = Flavor! Don’t skip this step.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

1. Return the beef to the pot.
2. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, shoyu, water/broth, and sugar.
3. Stir, then bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and cover. Simmer on low for 1.5 to 2 hours.
5. After an hour, add carrots and potatoes.

Slow cooker version: Combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Step 4: Final Touches

• Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness.
• Remove from heat and let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

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What to Serve with Hawaiian Beef Stew

Hawaiian beef stew is best enjoyed with:

• Steamed white rice (short grain or sticky rice)
• Hawaiian mac salad (classic plate lunch side)
• Sweet rolls or taro bread
• Lomi salmon or poke (for a traditional twist)

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage Method	Duration	Notes
Refrigerator	Up to 4 days	Store in airtight container
Freezer	Up to 3 months	Freeze in portioned bags

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat to preserve meat tenderness. Add a splash of broth if stew has thickened too much.

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Tips for the Best Hawaiian-Style Beef Stew

• Use beef chuck or shoulder for the best texture.
• Let it simmer slowly to bring out the flavors.
• Cook vegetables separately if you like firmer texture.
• Add Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
• Make it a day ahead. Flavors deepen overnight.

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Hawaiian Beef Stew Variations

Spicy Hawaiian Beef Stew

• Add crushed red pepper, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.

Sweet & Savory Style

• Use pineapple chunks or juice for a tropical sweetness.

Local Fusion Style

• Add a scoop of Hawaiian curry roux or a splash of coconut milk for island fusion flair.

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FAQs About Hawaiian Beef Stew

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Instructions:

1. Brown beef in pot. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté onions and garlic.
3. Return beef. Add tomato sauce, paste, shoyu, water, sugar.
4. Simmer for 1.5 hours. Add veggies halfway.
5. Taste, season, and serve with rice.

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Final Thoughts on Making Hawaiian Beef Stew at Home

Whether you’re craving island comfort food or looking to try something new, Hawaiian beef stew is a must-try dish. It’s budget-friendly, rich in culture, and deeply satisfying. Customize it to your taste and share the aloha spirit right from your kitchen!