Name: Hawaiian Beef Stew
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck, diced into 1-inch pieces; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ cup all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 stalks celery, diced; 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced; 2 cups beef broth; 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes (with juices); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 bay leaf; 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water

If you’re looking to transport your taste buds to the lush islands of Hawaii without leaving your kitchen, this Hawaiian Beef Stew is the perfect dish to try.

Jump to Recipe

This hearty, flavorful stew blends tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

With rich flavors inspired by the islands, you’ll find this recipe is not only simple to make but also an absolute crowd-pleaser.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Hawaiian Beef Stew stands out because it embodies the essence of Hawaiian comfort food.

The beef chuck is melt-in-your-mouth tender, simmered to perfection with earthy vegetables and a rich broth that’s infused with a hint of sweetness from the tomatoes.

Each spoonful is a celebration of flavors that delights the palate and soothes the soul.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a well-balanced meal in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

Ingredients

2 pounds beef chuck, trimmed, patted dry with paper towels, and diced into 1-inch pieces
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
2 cups beef broth
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes, do not drain
2 tablespoons soy sauce, preferably Hawaiian shoyu sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water

How To Make Hawaiian Beef Stew

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by seasoning the diced beef chuck with the salt and pepper.

Place the flour in a shallow dish and coat the beef pieces in the flour, shaking off any excess.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

Once hot, add the flour-coated beef in batches, taking care not to overcrowd the pot.

Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, then remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion, celery, and carrot.

Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned beef to the pot.

Pour in the beef broth, followed by the diced potatoes, tomato paste, diced tomatoes (with their juices), soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and add the bay leaf.

Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the stew to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Thicken the Stew

About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the cornstarch slurry (the cornstarch mixed with water) to thicken the stew.

Allow it to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy your Hawaiian culinary adventure.

This stew pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or absolutely by itself!

Expert Tips

For the best flavor, allow the stew to cool and then refrigerate it overnight. Reheat the next day; the flavors will deepen beautifully.
Feel free to add spices like ginger or garlic for an extra kick that complements the traditional Hawaiian flair.
If time allows, sear the beef for a longer time to develop a deeper, richer crust; this will enhance the stew’s flavor.
Pair the stew with warm, crusty bread or homemade Hawaiian rolls for a delightful experience.

Variations and Customizations

Add tropical flavors by including diced pineapples or a splash of pineapple juice for a sweet contrast that reflects the Hawaiian islands.
Substitute the beef chuck with chicken thighs or tofu for a lighter protein option.
Incorporate more vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or green beans for added nutrition and color.
Try using coconut milk instead of beef broth for a creamy and coconut-flavored stew.

How to Store Leftovers

To store any leftovers of this delightful Hawaiian Beef Stew, allow it to cool completely.

Transfer it to an airtight container, and it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stew in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of meat for this stew?

Absolutely! While beef chuck is traditional, you can switch things up with chicken thighs, pork, or even plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh.

Is there a way to make this stew spicier?

Yes, you can add sliced jalapeños or some red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier flavor profile.

Adding spices or hot sauce can enhance the heat as well.

What side dishes pair well with Hawaiian Beef Stew?

This stew is delicious on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, Hawaiian rolls, or a fresh green salad to balance out the rich flavors.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make it in a slow cooker, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as per the recipe, then transfer everything into your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.

Conclusion

This Hawaiian Beef Stew is more than just a mere meal; it’s a hearty embrace of flavors that remind us of the warmth and charm of the islands.

With its rich broth, tender beef, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests.

So, roll up your sleeves and dive into this delightful recipe that brings a little piece of Hawaii right to your home.

Enjoy every spoonful of this culinary adventure!