Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco Recipe

The Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco is a beloved comfort food that combines savory elements into one soul-satisfying dish. Imagine fluffy white rice layered with a juicy homemade beef patty, smothered in rich brown gravy, and topped with a perfectly cooked egg that oozes golden goodness with every cut. This dish is bursting with flavors and textures that will transport you straight to a sunny Hawaiian island, making it the perfect meal to warm your heart and fill your belly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to crafting the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco. Each component plays a key role—rice provides the comforting base, the beef patties offer hearty flavor, the brown gravy adds luscious depth, and the eggs bring richness and texture to every bite.

• White medium grain rice: Provides the ideal fluffy, sticky base to absorb the delicious gravy.
• Beef stock: Creates a deep, savory foundation for the rich brown gravy.
• Cornstarch: The secret to thickening the gravy to the perfect consistency without any lumps.
• Onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and depth to the gravy’s flavor profile.
• Shoyu (soy sauce): Brings authentic umami and a touch of saltiness to the brown gravy.
• Beef bouillon paste: Intensifies the meaty taste of the gravy for maximum satisfaction.
• Heavy cream: Smoothes and enriches the gravy for a luscious finish.
• Ground beef: The star of the patties, delivering juicy, savory goodness.
• Egg: Acts as a binder in the patties and a crowning ingredient when cooked atop the dish.
• Diced onion: Adds a mild crunch and sweetness to the patties.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Give structure and tenderness to keep patties juicy but firm.
• Ketchup and mayonnaise: Blend into the patties for a subtle tang and creamy texture.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every element perfectly.
• Cooking oil: For frying eggs to golden, crispy perfection.

How to Make Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco

Step 1: Cook the Perfect Rice

Start by rinsing your rice under cool water until the water runs clear; this removes excess starch and prevents the rice from getting gummy. Cook 2 cups of white medium grain rice with 2 cups of water in a rice cooker or on the stovetop until it’s perfectly tender and fluffy, creating the perfect canvas for your savory toppings.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Rich Brown Gravy

In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of beef stock with 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of shoyu, and 1 teaspoon of beef bouillon paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly until it thickens into a silky gravy. Finally, stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream for that velvety finish that makes the gravy irresistible.

Step 3: Create Juicy and Flavorful Burger Patties

In a large bowl, mix 2 pounds of ground beef with 1 egg, ¼ cup diced onion, ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons each of ketchup and mayonnaise, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Combine everything thoroughly, then shape the mixture into evenly sized patties. Cook them in a skillet over medium-high heat until the outsides are beautifully browned and the insides are cooked through, flipping only once to lock in the juices.

Step 4: Fry Eggs with Care

Heat your choice of cooking oil in a pan over medium heat. Crack in 6 fresh eggs, seasoning each lightly with salt and pepper. Cook until the egg whites are set and the edges develop a tantalizing crisp. For that dreamy runny yolk, flip them over gently to make over-easy eggs that will top your loco moco perfectly.

Step 5: Assemble Your Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco

To assemble, place a generous scoop of warm white rice on each plate, nestle a juicy burger patty on top, ladle over the rich brown gravy, and finally crown it all with a golden fried egg. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect combination of flavors, textures, and temperatures in every bite.

How to Serve Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco

Garnishes

To elevate your Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco, consider garnishing with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a subtle nutty crunch that complements the savory patties and luscious gravy beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serving this dish with simple sides like a crisp green salad, pickled vegetables, or steamed pineapple slices will add balance and brighten the rich flavors. For a more traditional Hawaiian touch, try a side of macaroni salad to provide creamy contrast and added comfort.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress your friends or family, build individual loco moco bowls layered in clear glass containers to showcase each component, or create sliders from mini patties topped with quail eggs for a fun appetizer twist. No matter the presentation, the heart of the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco shines through with each savory bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftovers of the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep components like rice, patties, eggs, and gravy separate if possible to preserve texture and flavor when reheating.

Freezing

While the patties freeze well, freezing the assembled dish is not recommended due to the eggs and rice texture changes. Instead, freeze cooked patties individually wrapped; they’ll keep for up to 2 months and reheat nicely for quick meals.

Reheating

Reheat the patties and rice gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, and warm the gravy separately to prevent curdling. For the eggs, it’s best to cook fresh before serving, as reheating can alter their texture. Reassembling focusing on fresh eggs will keep your Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco tasting just like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice for the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco?

Absolutely! While medium grain rice creates the best texture for absorbing gravy, short grain or jasmine rice can also work well, lending their own unique flavor and softness.

Is there a vegetarian version of the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco?

Yes! You can swap the beef patties with plant-based alternatives or grilled mushrooms and use vegetable broth for the gravy to still capture the comforting essence of this dish.

How do I keep the burger patties juicy?

Adding ingredients like mayonnaise and panko breadcrumbs helps retain moisture. Avoid overworking the meat and flip the patties just once during cooking to keep them tender and juicy.

What’s the best way to cook eggs for this dish?

Over-easy eggs are traditional for loco moco due to their runny yolks, which mix beautifully with the gravy and rice, but you can also try sunny side up or even scrambled for a different texture.

Can I prepare any parts of Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the gravy and patties ahead and refrigerate them. Cooking fresh eggs just before serving ensures the best flavor and texture for this dish.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a hearty, flavor-packed meal that feels like a warm hug from Hawaii, the Ultimate Hawaiian Loco Moco is exactly what you need. It’s a dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat, perfect for sharing with friends or indulging in a comforting solo dinner. Give it a try and watch how this humble dish quickly becomes a star in your recipe rotation.

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