Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty and comforting dish with a tropical twist, you’re going to love this Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe. It’s rich, tangy, and packed with tender beef and vibrant veggies that make weeknight dinners feel like a special occasion. I’m excited to share Grandpa Clarence’s iconic recipe that’s been a family favorite for generations—it’s one of those meals that just feels like a warm hug after a long day. Keep reading because I’ll guide you through every step to nail this deliciously unique stew at home.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Choosing quality ingredients is the key here. This Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe relies on a few pantry staples and fresh veggies that come together to create the most comforting bowl you’ll crave again and again. Here are my shopping tips for the stars of this meal.

• Beef chuck: Look for well-marbled chuck roast for rich flavor and tender texture after slow cooking.
• Olive oil: Use a good quality olive oil to get a nice sear on the beef and bring out the stew’s depth.
• All-purpose flour: For dredging the beef and thickening the stew—helps build a beautiful gravy.
• Celery: Adds a subtle freshness and slight crunch that balances the richness.
• Carrots: Sweet and earthy, these soften perfectly without turning mushy.
• Yellow onions: Choose firm onions that will caramelize nicely to deepen the stew’s flavor.
• Yukon Gold potatoes: They hold up well in stews and have a creamy texture once cooked.
• Tomato paste & tomato sauce: These bring tanginess and a rich umami base.
• Shoyu (or low-sodium soy sauce): This is the secret ingredient giving the stew its signature Hawaiian taste.
• Worcestershire sauce: Enhances savory depth with a hint of tartness and complexity.
• Low-sodium beef stock: A must for a flavorful broth that doesn’t overpower.

Variations

One of the things I love about this Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe is how easy it is to make your own. Whether you need a gluten-free option or want to add a little extra heat, there’s room to tweak this to suit your family’s taste buds.

• Slow Cooker Version: I adore how hands-off it is—just brown the beef, toss everything in, and come back hours later to a magical stew.
• Vegetable Boost: My family sometimes adds bell peppers or green beans for a pop of color and crunch.
• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, try stirring in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce.
• Gluten-Free Swap: Use cornstarch instead of flour to dredge and thicken if you’re avoiding gluten, and check labels on the soy sauce.

How to Make Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe

Step 1: Season and Dredge Your Beef

Start by patting your beef chunks dry—that’s a little trick I picked up to ensure proper browning. Then, sprinkle on the kosher salt and black pepper generously. Toss the beef in some flour; this coating helps seal in the juices while giving you a slightly thickened stew later on. Be gentle shaking off the excess flour—you want a nice, even coating but not clumps in the pot.

Step 2: Brown the Beef to Locked-in Flavor

Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering—that’s your cue the pan’s hot enough. Add your beef in batches and let each piece brown without crowding the pot. Browning each side for 2-3 minutes is key. This step adds so much depth to the stew’s flavor, and trust me, don’t skip it or rush it!

Step 3: Add Veggies and Flavorful Liquids

Now toss in the celery, carrots, onions, and potatoes along with tomato paste, tomato sauce, shoyu, Worcestershire, and most of the beef stock. Give everything a good stir to combine those gorgeous flavors. This is where the stew begins to come to life with that characteristic Hawaiian tang and umami punch.

Step 4: Simmer Until the Beef is Tender and Juicy

Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let the magic happen—it usually takes 2 to 3 hours for the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender. Stir occasionally and check on the liquid level to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom. If you notice it drying out, a splash more beef stock won’t hurt.

Step 5: Thicken and Finish Your Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe

Mix the remaining flour with the last splash of beef stock to make a smooth slurry. Gradually pour it into the simmering stew while stirring constantly—that’ll thicken your sauce beautifully without any lumps. Let it simmer another minute or two to cook off the raw flour taste, then taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Your Hawaiian Beef Stew is now ready to serve!

How to Serve Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my Hawaiian Beef Stew with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh cilantro for brightness. Sometimes, a few thinly sliced jalapeños add a nice subtle kick without overpowering the dish. If you want an extra island vibe, a wedge of fresh lime on the side brightens everything up deliciously.

Side Dishes

This stew pairs beautifully with fluffy white rice to soak up the rich gravy—that’s classic Hawaiian island-style dining right there. I’ve also served it with garlic butter rolls or a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to balance the hearty flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like to present the Hawaiian Beef Stew in individual coconuts or pineapple bowls. It’s a fun way to transport your guests to the islands and makes the meal feel extra festive. Adding tropical fruits like pineapple chunks or mango salsa on the side can add a sweet contrast that everyone raves about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I’m always thrilled that Hawaiian Beef Stew stores so well—it actually tastes better the next day as the flavors mingle more. After cooling completely, I store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge and enjoy them within 4 to 5 days. Reheating on the stovetop with a splash of stock or water helps restore the stew’s perfect consistency and warmth.

Freezing

This stew also freezes beautifully! I portion it into freezer-safe containers for easy meals later on—just remember to cool it fully before freezing to keep texture and flavor intact. I usually freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the fridge or for a quicker option, submerge the sealed container in cold water.

Reheating

Reheating works best on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking and adding a splash of beef stock as needed. You can also use the microwave, just be sure to cover it to retain moisture and heat in short bursts to prevent drying out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe holds a special place in my heart—and on my dinner table. It’s one of those dishes that you can cozy up to on a chilly evening or serve when friends are over to impress without stress. The blend of hearty beef, island-inspired flavors, and comforting veggies makes it a dinner win every time. I can’t wait for you to try it and hear all about your own family’s favorite twists. Happy cooking, and aloha to delicious meals!

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