Hawaiian beef stew recipe
Warm up with this Hawaiian beef stew recipe! Tender beef, hearty veggies, and a rich tomato-based broth make this island favorite truly irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- Beef chuck or stew meat – The best cut for a tender slow-simmered stew that melts in your mouth.
- Yellow onion – Adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic – A must-have for adding bold aromatic depth to the stew!
- Carrots – Bring a touch of sweetness and a hearty texture.
- Russet potatoes – Perfect for thickening the stew as they cook.
- Celery – Adds a subtle crunch and freshness.
- Tomato sauce – Forms the savory slightly tangy base of the broth.
- Beef broth – Enhances the richness and depth of the stew.
- Soy sauce – A touch of umami that gives this dish its Hawaiian twist.
- Worcestershire sauce – Adds complexity and a hint of tangy sweetness.
- Bay leaves – Infuse the stew with a delicate aromatic depth.
- Salt & black pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- Cornstarch optional – If you like a thicker broth, a cornstarch slurry works wonders!
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:
- ✔ No beef broth? Use water with an extra spoonful of soy sauce for added flavor.
- ✔ Prefer a richer stew? Swap tomato sauce for crushed tomatoes for more texture.
- ✔ Want more island flavor? Add a splash of pineapple juice for a touch of natural sweetness.
- ✔ Gluten-free? Ensure your soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free or use tamari instead.
Instructions
Brown the Beef for Maximum Flavor
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil.
- Pat the beef chunks dry with a paper towel (this helps them sear properly).
- Season with salt and black pepper, then add to the pot in batches. Don’t overcrowd! Let them develop a golden-brown crust before flipping.
- Once browned on all sides, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, and celery.
- Cook until softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom—this is where the flavor builds!
Build the Flavorful Broth
- Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add the bay leaves and return the browned beef to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle cook. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Add the Vegetables
- Once the beef is fork-tender, add the carrots and potatoes.
- Continue simmering uncovered for another 30–40 minutes, or until the veggies are soft and the broth has thickened.
Adjust & Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Want a thicker broth? Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it in and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
- Remove the bay leaves, then ladle the stew into bowls. Serve hot over steamed white rice or with Hawaiian sweet rolls for the ultimate island-inspired meal.
Notes
🍽 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 30g