This Hawaiian beef stew recipe transports your taste buds to the islands, offering a comforting blend of tender beef, sweet pineapples, and savory spices. Inspired by Hawaii’s vibrant flavors, it combines juicy chunks of beef with tropical ingredients like coconut milk, soy sauce, and ginger for a rich umami experience. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests with its exotic twist, this one-pot wonder is easy to make and packed with flavor. Dive in and enjoy a taste of paradise!
Key Benefits
A Taste of the Tropics in Every Bite
This Hawaiian Beef Stew brings the vibrant flavors of Hawaii straight to your kitchen. The combination of sweet pineapple, creamy coconut milk, and savory soy sauce creates a unique umami experience that’s both comforting and exotic.
One-Pot Simplicity for Effortless Cooking
With this recipe, you only need one pot to create a hearty, flavorful stew. Minimal cleanup and straightforward steps make it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Packed with Nutritious Ingredients
This stew is more than just delicious—it’s nutritious too! The beef provides protein, while the vegetables (like carrots and potatoes) add fiber and essential vitamins. Coconut milk adds healthy fats, making this dish satisfying and wholesome.
Versatile and Customizable
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or catering to dietary preferences, this recipe is highly adaptable. Swap out veggies, adjust spice levels, or use plant-based protein for a vegan twist.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week! This stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together, making it an excellent option for meal preppers.
Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
From kids to adults, everyone will love the balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors in this dish. It’s a guaranteed hit at family dinners or gathering
Ingredients
For the Stew:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or coconut oil for extra flavor)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
For the Vegetables:
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into rounds
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or russet work well)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into chunks
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
For Garnish (Optional):
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
Why These Ingredients?
This selection ensures maximum flavor and texture:
- Beef Chuck: A tough yet flavorful cut that becomes tender when slow-cooked in the stew.
- Coconut Milk & Pineapple: Add a tropical twist with creamy richness and natural sweetness.
- Soy Sauce & Ginger: Provide savory umami depth and aromatic warmth.
- Carrots, Potatoes, Bell Peppers: Create a hearty base of vegetables while balancing sweetness and texture.
How to Make Hawaiian Beef Stew
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cut the beef chuck into bite-sized cubes and pat dry with paper towels (this helps achieve a good sear).
- Dice the onion, mince the garlic, grate the ginger, and chop the vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell pepper).
- Drain the pineapple chunks if using canned pineapple.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, add the beef cubes and sear on all sides until browned (about 2–3 minutes per batch). Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Deglaze and Build the Base
- Pour in 2 cups of beef broth , scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits (this adds depth of flavor).
- Add 1/4 cup soy sauce , 1 teaspoon black pepper , and 1 teaspoon salt . Stir to combine.
Step 5: Simmer the Stew
- Return the seared beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1.5 hours , stirring occasionally. If the liquid reduces too much, add a little water or extra broth.
Step 6: Add Vegetables and Pineapple
- After 1.5 hours, stir in the carrots, potatoes, and red bell pepper. Cover and continue simmering for 30–40 minutes , or until the vegetables are tender.
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the pineapple chunks and 1 cup coconut milk . Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or brown sugar if desired.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Total Time: ~2 hours 30 minutes
- Servings: 4–6 servings
Tips & Tricks
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef
Beef chuck is ideal for stew because it becomes tender with slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin, as they can dry out during the long simmering process. - Pat the Beef Dry Before Searing
Always pat the beef cubes dry with paper towels before searing. This removes excess moisture, ensuring a good crust forms and locks in juices. - Don’t Skip the Searing Step
Searing the beef adds depth and richness to the stew. Take your time to brown each piece evenly—it’s worth the effort! - Use Full-Fat Coconut Milk
For the creamiest texture and richest flavor, use full-fat coconut milk. Light coconut milk may make the stew thinner and less flavorful. - Adjust Sweetness to Taste
If you prefer a sweeter stew, add 1–2 tablespoons of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey. Taste as you go and adjust based on your preference. - Add Pineapple at the End
To prevent the pineapple from breaking down too much, stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This keeps the chunks intact and vibrant. - Enhance Umami with Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is key to balancing the sweetness of the pineapple and adding savory depth. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness, or try tamari for a gluten-free option. - Simmer Low and Slow
Cook the stew over low heat for at least 1.5 hours to ensure the beef becomes fork-tender. Rushing this step can result in chewy meat. - Garnish for Freshness
A sprinkle of sliced green onions or fresh cilantro adds brightness and balances the rich flavors of the stew. Don’t skip this finishing touch! - Serve with Steamed Rice or Bread
Hawaiian Beef Stew pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. It’s also great on its own for a lighter meal. - Make Ahead for Better Flavor
Like most stews, this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Freeze for Future Meals
This stew freezes well! Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. - Customize Your Veggies
Feel free to swap or add vegetables like sweet potatoes, peas, or green beans. Just adjust cooking times accordingly—heartier veggies need more time. - Use Fresh Ginger for Best Results
Freshly grated ginger provides a brighter, more aromatic flavor than ground ginger. Keep a knob of ginger in your freezer for easy grating anytime. - Double the Recipe for Meal Prep
This stew is perfect for batch cooking. Double the ingredients and enjoy multiple meals throughout the week—or share with friends and family!
Conclusion
This Hawaiian beef stew recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a taste of the tropics. With its tender beef, creamy coconut broth, and sweet pineapple, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is easy, hearty, and unforgettable!
FAQs
1. What cut of beef is best for this stew?
Beef chuck is the ideal choice because it becomes tender and flavorful with slow cooking. You can also use brisket or short ribs, but avoid lean cuts like sirloin, as they may dry out.
2. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sear the beef and sauté the aromatics on the stovetop first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, adding the vegetables and pineapple during the last hour of cooking.
3. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes! Fresh pineapple works beautifully and adds a brighter flavor. Cut it into chunks and add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
4. How do I adjust the sweetness?
If you prefer a sweeter stew, add 1–2 tablespoons of brown sugar or honey. For a less sweet version, reduce or omit the sugar entirely. Taste as you go and adjust to your preference.
5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
6. How long does the stew keep in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
7. Can I freeze Hawaiian Beef Stew?
Yes! This stew freezes well. Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
8. Why is my stew too thin or too thick?
If the stew is too thin, simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes to reduce the liquid. If it’s too thick, add a little beef broth, water, or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
9. Can I substitute the coconut milk?
While coconut milk gives the stew its signature tropical creaminess, you can substitute heavy cream or whole milk for a non-tropical twist. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor profile slightly.
10. What can I serve with this stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or crusty bread. For a lighter option, serve it on its own or with a side of roasted vegetables.
11. Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of sriracha, or a chopped chili pepper when sautéing the aromatics for a spicy kick.
12. How do I know when the beef is tender enough?
The beef should be fork-tender after 1.5–2 hours of simmering. If it’s still tough, continue cooking in 15-minute increments until it softens.
13. Can I use a different protein?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs, pork shoulder, or even tofu work as substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly—chicken and tofu require less time to cook than beef.
14. Why is my stew bland?
If the stew tastes bland, check your seasoning. Add more salt, soy sauce, or a touch of brown sugar to balance the flavors. Tasting as you go helps ensure a well-seasoned dish.
15. Can I prep this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can chop all the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge until ready to cook. Alternatively, prepare the entire stew in advance—it tastes even better the next day!