So what is Loco Moco?
The local legend says that a bunch of teenagers were hungry and looking for a quick meal. They rattled off some ideas, and the owners of the cafe put it all together; a pan-fried ground steak patty served over a bed of rice, topped with a rich brown gravy and a sunny-side-up egg. Okay, the egg may have been added later, but it has become an essential part of the meal tradition. This dish is a true representation of Hawaiian comfort food, combining flavors and textures that are both satisfying and hearty.
Loco is Spanish for “crazy,” named for a guy they called “Crazy George.” Moco rhymed, so they added it, even though it actually means “mucus/snot” in Spanish, lol. This quirky name adds to the charm of the dish, making it not just a meal but a story that brings people together. It’s a fun conversation starter at the dinner table, and it’s sure to spark interest among your guests.
How to make Hawaiian Loco Moco:
For the rice: Start by steaming your rice on the stove, in a rice cooker, or in your Instant Pot. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can substitute Cauliflower Rice for Whole30, Paleo, or Keto diets. This substitution not only lowers the carb count but also adds a unique flavor and texture to the dish.
Next, heat one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion slices and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until they are almost translucent. This step is crucial as it brings out the natural sweetness of the onions. Reduce the heat to low, and continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn golden brown and caramelized. The caramelization process enhances the flavor profile of the dish, making it even more delicious.
Once the onions are perfectly caramelized, add the garlic and cook for one minute, just until fragrant. The aroma of garlic will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist the dish already! After this, remove the mixture from the skillet and place it in a bowl to keep it warm.
Now, pour one more tablespoon of oil into the skillet. Season the ground beef patties with salt and pepper, then place them in the hot skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes per side depending on thickness. (I have 2 large patties instead of 4 regular-sized ones. They take much longer to cook this way, but the result is worth the wait.)
Once the patties are cooked to perfection, remove them to a plate to rest and cover with foil to keep them warm. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Next, place the onions back into the skillet and add the soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option), fish sauce, and beef stock to the skillet. Bring this mixture almost to a boil, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. After it reaches a near-boil, reduce the heat to medium-low.
Scoop out two tablespoons of the hot liquid from the skillet and mix it with the cornstarch (or arrowroot, glucomannan, or xanthan gum) in a small bowl. This step is essential for thickening the gravy, giving it that rich, velvety texture that makes Loco Moco so comforting.
Whisk the cornstarch mixture into the skillet. Continue to simmer until the gravy thickens, about 5 or 6 minutes. The gravy should be smooth and glossy, ready to envelop the rice and patties in a warm embrace.
Serving Suggestions
To serve, start with a generous scoop of rice on each plate. Place the cooked beef patty on top of the rice, and then ladle the thick, savory gravy over the patty. Finally, top it all off with a sunny-side-up egg. The runny yolk adds a creamy richness that ties all the flavors together beautifully.
You can also add some fresh green onions or chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. This dish is not only filling but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family meals or gatherings with friends.
Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Loco Moco! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you want to add some extra flavor, consider mixing in some spices or herbs into the meat before cooking.
For a vegetarian version, you can use a plant-based meat substitute or even a hearty mushroom patty. The gravy can also be made with vegetable stock instead of beef stock, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this delicious dish regardless of dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Loco Moco is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful experience that brings the flavors of Hawaii right to your kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling full and happy. So gather your ingredients, follow this simple recipe, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of the islands. You won’t regret it!
This classic Hawaiian dish is not only easy to make but also a fantastic way to introduce new flavors to your family’s dinner table. Enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing this delicious meal with those you care about. Happy cooking!
