Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that transports you to the sunny shores of Hawaii? Look no further! This Hawaiian Beef Stew recipe is a delicious and surprisingly easy way to bring the taste of the islands to your dinner table. It’s a perfect example of healthy meals made simple, ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend gathering. This easy recipe is packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this best recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can pineapple chunks, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step enhances the flavor and creates a richer stew. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), pineapple chunks (undrained), beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and cloves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 hours, or until the beef is very tender.
Step 4: Thickening the Stew
In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water until smooth. Remove about ½ cup of the stew liquid and whisk it into the cornstarch mixture to create a slurry. Pour the slurry back into the pot and stir well. Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Seasoning and Serving
Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with rice or crusty bread.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of beef broth and red wine.
- Add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or zucchini for a heartier stew.
- If you prefer a spicier stew, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- For a thicker stew, increase the amount of cornstarch.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutritional calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 30-35g
- Fat: Around 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Around 20-25g
This Hawaiian Beef Stew is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that are both delicious and healthy. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the taste of Aloha!