Enjoy This Simple Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe!

Hawaiian beef stew, also known as local-style beef stew, is a hearty and comforting dish that holds a special place in Hawaiian cuisine. Unlike traditional beef stews found on the mainland, this version features a rich tomato-based broth, tender chunks of beef, and an abundance of vegetables that soak up all the delicious flavors.

This dish is a staple in many Hawaiian households and is commonly served at family gatherings, potlucks, and even local diners (plate lunch spots). Its unique flavors are a blend of Hawaiian, Asian, and Western influences, making it a one-of-a-kind comfort food that’s both simple and deeply satisfying.

Key Ingredients: Essential Ingredients and Their Roles

To make a delicious Hawaiian beef stew, you’ll need a combination of fresh ingredients and seasonings that create its signature rich, comforting flavor. Here’s a breakdown of each ingredient and its role in the dish:

1. Beef (Chuck Roast or Stew Meat)

• The best cut for this stew is chuck roast because it has the perfect balance of fat and connective tissue, which melts down into tender, flavorful meat when slow-cooked.
• You can also use beef stew meat, but chuck roast gives the best results.

2. Tomatoes & Tomato Paste

• Unlike many traditional stews that rely on beef stock, Hawaiian beef stew uses canned tomatoes and tomato paste to create a rich, slightly tangy, deep red broth.
• Tomatoes provide natural acidity, which helps tenderize the meat and balance the flavors.

3. Vegetables: The Hearty Additions

• Carrots – Adds sweetness and a vibrant orange color.
• Potatoes – Helps thicken the stew and makes it heartier.
• Celery – Adds a subtle herbaceous flavor and enhances the aroma.
• Onions & Garlic – Essential for depth of flavor; they create the savory base of the stew.

4. Seasonings & Enhancers

• Soy sauce – Adds a unique umami depth that complements the tomatoes.
• Bay leaves – Infuse the stew with a warm, earthy aroma.
• Salt & Pepper – Basic but essential for seasoning.
• Flour (Optional) – Lightly coating the beef in flour before browning helps to thicken the stew naturally.

5. Liquids

• Water or Beef Broth : The liquid component of the stew, helping everything cook down into a rich, hearty dish.
• Oil (for browning the beef) : Typically, vegetable or olive oil is used to sear the meat, which enhances the deep, caramelized flavor.

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s move on to the step-by-step cooking instructions!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: A Detailed Guide to Making the Stew

Follow this easy-to-follow guide to make the perfect Hawaiian beef stew from scratch.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Cut the beef into bite-sized chunks (about 1-2 inches). If using chuck roast, trim any excess fat.
2. Dice the onions, garlic, celery, carrots, and potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.
3. Pat the beef dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef in batches, browning it on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
3. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In the same pot, add onions and garlic and cook until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
2. Stir in the celery and cook for another 2 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 4: Build the Flavor Base

1. Add tomato paste to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to bring out its deep flavor.
2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, mixing well.
3. Pour in soy sauce and mix everything together.

Step 5: Simmer the Stew

1. Return the browned beef to the pot and add enough water or beef broth to cover the meat.
2. Drop in bay leaves for extra depth.
3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
4. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender.

Step 6: Add the Vegetables

1. Add carrots and potatoes to the pot. Stir well.
2. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Final Adjustments & Serving

1. Taste and adjust seasoning – add more salt or soy sauce if needed.
2. Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
3. Let the stew sit for 5-10 minutes before serving for the flavors to meld.
4. Serve hot over a bowl of white rice and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Hawaiian Beef Stew

Want to make sure your stew turns out perfectly flavorful and tender? Follow these expert tips for the best results:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef

• Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
• Avoid lean cuts like sirloin, as they can become tough.

2. Don’t Skip the Browning Step

• Browning the beef first locks in flavor and adds a rich depth to the stew.
• Take your time! A good sear makes all the difference.

3. Use Fresh Ingredients

• Fresh onions, garlic, and vegetables give the stew an authentic home-cooked taste.

4. Low & Slow is Key

• The longer you simmer, the more tender the beef becomes. Patience pays off!

5. Let It Rest Before Serving

• Letting the stew sit for 5-10 minutes before eating allows the flavors to blend.

6. Make It a Day Ahead for Even Better Flavor

• Like many stews, Hawaiian beef stew tastes even better the next day!

Variations of Hawaiian Beef Stew

While the classic Hawaiian beef stew is a slow-simmered tomato-based dish, there are several variations to try, each adding a unique twist to this local favorite.

Spicy Hawaiian Beef Stew

For a spicier version, add:

• Chili flakes or Hawaiian chili peppers for extra heat
• A splash of hot sauce such as Sriracha or Tabasco

Slow Cooker Hawaiian Beef Stew

For a convenient hands-off approach:

• Brown the beef, then transfer everything into a slow cooker
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until tender

Instant Pot Hawaiian Beef Stew

For a faster version, use an Instant Pot:

• Sauté the beef and aromatics using the Sauté function
• Pressure cook on high for 35 minutes, then allow a natural release

Hawaiian Beef Stew with Coconut Milk

For a creamy, tropical twist, add:

• Half a cup of coconut milk in the last 10 minutes of cooking
• This enhances the stew with a rich, slightly sweet flavor

Low-Carb Hawaiian Beef Stew

For a healthier, keto-friendly version:

• Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips
• Use flour alternatives such as arrowroot or xanthan gum for thickening

Nutritional Information: Health Benefits and Macronutrient Breakdown

Hawaiian beef stew is a protein-rich, nutrient-dense meal that provides essential vitamins and minerals. Below is an approximate breakdown per serving:

Health Benefits

• High in Protein – Supports muscle growth and repair
• Loaded with Vitamins and Minerals – Provides fiber, vitamin A, and potassium
• Balanced Meal – Contains a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fats

For a lighter version, reduce the potatoes, use leaner beef, and increase the amount of vegetables.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced cooks can run into challenges when making Hawaiian beef stew. Here are some of the most common mistakes and how to fix them.

Using the Wrong Cut of Beef

Mistake: Choosing a lean cut such as sirloin, which becomes tough when simmered.
Fix: Use chuck roast, which has the perfect fat content for slow cooking. Learn more about beef choices by checking out beef sausage recipes.

Not Browning the Meat Properly

Mistake: Skipping the browning step, leading to less flavorful stew.
Fix: Sear the beef until golden brown to lock in the flavor. If you’re interested in another beef-based dish, you might enjoy this old-fashioned vegetable beef soup.

Cooking at High Heat

Mistake: Rushing the cooking process by using high heat.
Fix: Simmer on low heat for at least two hours to allow the meat to become tender. Want to explore more slow-cooked dishes? Try this chili soup delight.

Overcooking the Vegetables

Mistake: Adding all the vegetables at the beginning, making them mushy.
Fix: Add potatoes and carrots in the last 30 minutes of cooking. For more tips on balancing flavors, take a look at this Chilean tomato stew recipe.

Not Letting the Stew Rest

Mistake: Serving immediately without letting the flavors meld.
Fix: Allow the stew to sit for at least 10 minutes before serving. Stews and soups always develop richer flavors over time, just like this what is the difference between chili and stew guide explains.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Since Hawaiian beef stew tastes even better the next day, it’s important to store it properly.

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to four days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to three months.

If you love hearty meals that store well, you might also enjoy this turkey cranberry chili recipe.

Best Ways to Reheat

• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, to avoid uneven heating.

Modifications for Dietary Needs

Gluten-Free Version

• Use gluten-free soy sauce
• Replace flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder

Low-Carb/Keto-Friendly

• Replace potatoes with cauliflower or radishes
• Use bone broth instead of tomato paste for a different base

Vegetarian/Vegan Hawaiian Stew

• Swap beef for jackfruit, mushrooms, or tofu
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth

FAQs: Common Questions About Hawaiian Beef Stew

Conclusion

Hawaiian beef stew is more than just a meal—it is a comforting, flavorful dish deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture. With its rich tomato-based broth, tender beef, and hearty vegetables, it is perfect for any occasion.

By following this guide, avoiding common mistakes, and trying different variations, you can create the best homemade Hawaiian beef stew that will become a family favorite.

Enjoy This Simple Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe!

Craving some island vibes? This Hawaiian Beef Stew brings the taste of Hawaii to your kitchen. A must-try!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds beef chuck trimmed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 28-ounce can whole peeled tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 medium carrots peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• 3 medium potatoes peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Working in batches, brown the beef on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
• In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes until it turns a deeper red color.
• Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the canned whole peeled tomatoes with their juices, breaking them up with a spoon. Add the beef broth and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 1 hour.
• After 1 hour, add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. If needed, add more water to ensure all ingredients are submerged. Continue to simmer, covered, for an additional hour, or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
• Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Notes

. Boost Flavor

• Sear beef well, deglaze with broth, add soy sauce.

2. Improve Texture

• Use crushed tomatoes, adjust broth, thicken with potatoes.

3. Add Hawaiian Touch

• Use ginger, swap sweet potatoes, garnish with herbs.

Keyword Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe