Description
This Hawaiian beef stew recipe is a true island classic! Featuring tender beef, a rich tomato-based broth, and hearty vegetables, this dish brings comfort with every bite. Perfectly slow-cooked for deep flavors, it’s the ultimate local-style stew that’s best served with rice.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 1 tbsp Hawaiian sea salt (or regular salt)
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or avocado)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp shoyu (soy sauce)
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 carrots, cut into chunks
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for extra umami)
- 1/2 tsp Hawaiian chili pepper (for a spicy kick)
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (the secret ingredient for deeper flavor!)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Beef: Season the beef with Hawaiian sea salt and black pepper. Let it sit for 30 minutes for better flavor.
2️⃣ Brown the Meat: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef chunks in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the flavor.
4️⃣ Simmer the Stew: Return the beef to the pot. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, shoyu, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer. Cover and cook for 2–3 hours until the beef is tender.
5️⃣ Add Vegetables: Stir in carrots and potatoes. Simmer for another 30–40 minutes until the vegetables are fork-tender.
6️⃣ Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove bay leaves and serve hot with steamed rice.
Notes
- What is the secret ingredient in beef stew? Adding a splash of fish sauce gives a richer, more complex umami taste.
- What is the secret to tender beef stew? Use chuck roast and cook it slow and low to break down tough fibers.
- Why put tomato paste in beef stew? It adds depth, thickness, and a slightly tangy balance to the broth.
- How to deepen the flavor of beef stew? Searing the meat properly and letting the stew rest for a few hours helps flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours