Some days, you just want a big pot of something comforting bubbling away on the stove—something that fills your kitchen with a cozy aroma and brings everyone running to the table. That’s exactly what this Hawaiian beef stew recipe does. It’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down, grab a bowl, and soak up the moment with every spoonful.
What makes it extra special? The rich tomato base, tender chunks of beef, and that gentle island flair from a touch of ginger. You don’t need fancy ingredients or hours of prep—just a few staples and a little simmer time.
In this post, I’ll walk you through everything from the simple ingredients to tips for serving, storing, and even making it your own. Let’s get that pot going—you’re going to love how easy and flavorful this dish turns out.
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe
There’s something truly special about a recipe that brings comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one pot—and that’s exactly what this Hawaiian beef stew recipe delivers. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight, a Sunday family dinner, or a day you just need something dependable and deeply satisfying, this stew always hits the mark.
Let me walk you through the reasons this one’s a keeper:
Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing
The rich tomato base, tender beef, and hearty veggies are flavors everyone around the table can agree on, from picky eaters to hungry teens.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
You don’t need anything fancy. With pantry staples like beef chuck, carrots, and tomato paste, you’ll get that classic beef stew Hawaiian style taste without extra trips to the store.
One-Pot Wonder
Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. That means more time enjoying dinner, less time scrubbing dishes.
Customizable for Any Kitchen
Want to add pineapple for a little island sweetness? Prefer it spicy with chili flakes? This recipe gives you room to make it your own without stress.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re feeding a big family, prepping for a casual get-together, or making something cozy just for yourself, this stew fits right in.
Make-Ahead Friendly
It holds up beautifully in the fridge or freezer, so you can cook it once and enjoy it all over again later with the same rich flavor and texture.
This isn’t just another stew—it’s a bowl full of comfort that brings the warm spirit of Hawaii right to your table. Let’s head to the kitchen and pull together everything you need to bring this island favorite to life.
Ingredients for the Best Hawaiian Beef Stew
Let’s round up what you need for this hearty pot of island-style comfort. Everything on this list is easy to find and works together to build that rich, tomato-forward base with just a hint of tropical warmth. You’ll also find a few optional extras in case you’re feeling creative!
Basic Ingredients
- Beef chuck roast – 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes
This cut becomes beautifully tender when simmered low and slow, making it ideal for this beef stew Hawaiian style dish. - Avocado oil – 2 tablespoons
Great for browning the beef thanks to its high heat tolerance. - Yellow onion – 1 large, diced
Adds a naturally sweet base to the stew. - Garlic – 4 cloves, minced
Brings that deep, savory aroma that’s always welcome in a stew. - Fresh ginger – 1 tablespoon, finely grated
Adds a gentle warmth and gives the stew its Hawaiian signature. - Tomato paste – 3 tablespoons
Boosts the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce slightly. - Crushed tomatoes – 1 can (28 ounces)
Forms the heart of the broth with a bright, rich taste. - Beef stock – 3 cups
Adds richness and ties all the flavors together into a cozy, well-rounded broth. - Carrots – 3 large, peeled and chopped into chunks
Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory sauce. - Russet potatoes – 3 medium, peeled and cubed
Filling and tender, they absorb the rich broth beautifully with every simmered spoonful. - Celery – 2 stalks, sliced
Adds a gentle, earthy note that rounds out the stew’s savory layers. - Bay leaf – 1
Adds an herbal note that infuses gently during simmering. - Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons
A splash of umami that deepens the overall flavor. - Brown sugar – 1 tablespoon
Rounds out the acidity of the tomatoes with a mellow sweetness. - Salt and black pepper – to taste
Helps everything taste balanced and well-seasoned from the first bite to the last.
Optional Add-Ins
- Diced pineapple – ½ cup
A sweet touch that pairs naturally with the ginger. - Red chili flakes – ½ teaspoon or more
Adds a gentle kick you can adjust to match your spice comfort zone. - Green peas – 1 cup
Stir these in near the end for a pop of color and freshness.
Pro Tip: Want to give this stew a twist? Try swapping the soy sauce with coconut aminos for a subtle island flavor, or toss in bell peppers for a colorful, slightly sweet variation. If you’re craving a more Caribbean vibe, add a pinch of allspice or cinnamon to the broth—it brings unexpected depth.
Now that your kitchen is prepped, let’s get cooking! Time to bring this flavorful Hawaii beef stew recipe to life.
How to Make Hawaiian Beef Stew Step by Step
This part is where the magic happens—when simple ingredients come together and fill your home with the kind of aroma that makes everyone ask, “What’s for dinner?” Follow these steps and you’ll have a big pot of stew that’s tender, flavorful, and full of island charm.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1- Sear the Beef for Flavor
Heat the avocado oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches so they don’t crowd the pan. Brown each side for about 3–4 minutes until golden edges form. Transfer to a plate. Don’t skip this step—it’s the secret to a deep, savory base.
2- Sauté the Aromatics
Lower the heat to medium. Toss in the diced onions and cook for about 4 minutes until they turn soft and glossy. Stir in the garlic and ginger, letting them sizzle for 30 seconds until fragrant—just enough to wake them up.
3- Add Tomato Depth
Add the tomato paste and fold it into the sautéed aromatics until everything’s well coated. Let it cook for about a minute, stirring frequently. You’ll see the paste darken slightly and smell its richness deepen.
4- Deglaze and Build the Broth
Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef stock. Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, bay leaf, and a few grinds of black pepper. Use your spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom—that’s pure flavor gold.
5- Simmer and Soften
Bring everything to a gentle boil. Once it bubbles, lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks. During this time, the beef starts getting beautifully tender.
6- Add the Veggies
Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Keep the pot uncovered and simmer for another 30–35 minutes. The vegetables should be fork-tender, and the beef will be soft enough to fall apart with just a gentle press.
7- Taste and Finish
Fish out the bay leaf and give the stew a good taste. Add salt or more pepper if needed. If the sauce feels too thick, splash in a bit of warm stock. Too thin? Let it simmer 5–10 more minutes uncovered.
8- Serve It Up
Ladle the stew into bowls, and if you’re adding peas or pineapple, now’s the time to stir them in gently. Serve hot with rice, rolls, or however you like—it’s ready to warm hearts and bellies.
No fancy tricks. Just a cozy, flavorful pot of beef stew Hawaiian style that’s ready to bring a little island comfort to your home. Let’s move on to some chef tips and easy ways you can make this recipe truly your own!
Chef Tips and Flavor Variations for Hawaiian Beef Stew
There’s always a little wiggle room in a cozy stew like this. Whether you want to play with the flavors or avoid a common hiccup, these tips will help you make this Hawaiian beef stew recipe just right every single time.
Brown That Beef Well
Take your time with the sear. A golden-brown crust gives the stew deeper flavor—it’s worth the extra few minutes.
Use Big Veggie Chunks
Cut carrots and potatoes into large pieces so they hold their shape and don’t melt into the broth too early.
Balance the Sweetness
Add brown sugar gradually and taste as you go. If you’re using pineapple, reduce the sugar slightly to keep things balanced.
Adjust the Heat Gently
Love a little spice? Start with ½ teaspoon of chili flakes and increase from there. It’s easy to add more later, but hard to take it back.
Switch Up the Base
Try half beef stock and half vegetable stock for a softer background if you’re cooking for little ones.
Make It Tropical
Stir in diced pineapple or even a splash of pineapple juice at the end for a true island-inspired twist.
Slow Cooker Option
Brown your beef and aromatics first, then transfer to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7–8 hours for a fuss-free finish.
Cooking is always a little more fun when you can make it your own. Now let’s talk about the best ways to serve this warm bowl of comfort.
Serving Ideas for Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe
This stew is meant to be shared—and it shines in all kinds of settings, from lazy Sundays to potlucks or just an easy weeknight dinner. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy and serve this flavorful Hawaiian beef stew recipe.
Spoon It Over Rice
A classic Hawaiian-style plate lunch pairing. White or jasmine rice soaks up all that rich tomato-ginger broth beautifully.
Serve with Sweet Rolls
Hawaiian sweet rolls or soft dinner rolls are perfect for dipping and soaking.
Top with Fresh Herbs
A sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions adds a fresh pop of color right before serving.
Add a Crunchy Side
A crisp green salad or even coleslaw brings a nice contrast to the stew’s warmth and richness.
Use as a Meal Prep Base
Portion it out with rice or rolls for ready-to-grab lunches or freezer meals.
Make It a Bowl Night
Set out toppings like chili flakes, chopped pineapple, and green onions so everyone can customize their bowl.
There’s no wrong way to serve this dish—it’s flexible, satisfying, and always brings people back for seconds. Now, let’s keep the goodness going with tips for storing and reheating.
How to Store and Reheat Hawaiian Beef Stew Leftovers
What’s extra comforting about this Hawaiian beef stew recipe? It holds up beautifully for leftovers you’ll actually look forward to. Here’s how to make sure you store and reheat it the right way, without losing that tender texture or rich flavor.
How to Store:
- Refrigerator:
Allow the stew to cool down, then scoop it into a sealed container to keep it fresh. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. - Freezer:
Portion into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, press out the air, and lay flat to freeze. You can freeze it for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
How to Reheat:
- On the Stove:
Pour the stew into a saucepan and warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it feels too thick. - In the Microwave:
Reheat in 1–2 minute intervals, stirring in between to keep the heat even. - From Frozen:
Thaw overnight in the fridge or gently warm from frozen on the stove with a little added liquid.
Having a pot of this ready in your fridge or freezer means a comforting meal is never far away.
More Beef Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed this Hawaiian beef stew recipe, here are a few more hearty and flavor-packed beef dishes you might want to explore next:
- Wagyu Ground Beef Recipe – Rich, tender, and packed with savory depth.
- Beef Cheek Meat – Slow-cooked and incredibly fork-tender.
- Shaved Beef Recipes – Quick, tasty meals perfect for weeknights.
- Beef Tendon – A gelatin-rich cut that simmers beautifully.
- Beef Sausage Recipes – Bold, savory, and easy to prep.
- Brisket Chili Recipe – A cozy one-pot meal with deep, bold flavors.
Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe
Equipment
- Dutch oven or large heavy pot
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Sharp knife & cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast cubed
- 2 Tbsp avocado oil
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 Tbsp fresh ginger grated
- 3 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups beef stock
- 3 large carrots chopped
- 3 medium russet potatoes cubed
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- ½ cup diced pineapple
- ½ tsp red chili flakes
- 1 cup peas stir in at the end
Instructions
- Sear beef in hot avocado oil until browned on all sides; set aside.
- Sauté onion, then add garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute.
- Return beef to pot with tomatoes, stock, soy sauce, sugar, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add carrots, potatoes, and celery. Simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and stir in any optional add-ins.
- Serve hot with rice, rolls, or crusty bread.
Notes
Key Takeaways
- A cozy one-pot dish packed with tender beef and filling vegetables
- Tomato and ginger give it a warm island-style twist
- Easy to customize with sweet, spicy, or savory add-ins
- Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or gatherings
- Great for leftovers—just reheat and enjoy all over again
Let’s wrap things up with answers to a few commonly asked questions!
Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can. Cuts like brisket or bottom round also work well, but they may need a bit more simmer time to get nice and tender. Just keep an eye on texture and let it cook until the beef breaks apart easily with a fork.
Is this stew naturally spicy?
Not at all. This Hawaiian beef stew recipe is mild as written, but you can stir in red chili flakes or diced chili peppers to bring in a little heat if your crew likes it spicy.
Is it possible to cook this Hawaiian beef stew in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Use the Sauté function to brown the beef and build your flavor base. Then add the remaining ingredients, seal the lid, and pressure cook on High for about 35 minutes. Allow the pressure to release on its own so everything stays tender and flavorful.
What sets this apart from a traditional beef stew?
It’s all about the island-style flavor! The tomato-rich broth, a splash of soy sauce, and a hint of fresh ginger give this beef stew Hawaiian style its signature taste—comforting but with a tropical twist.
How do I keep the veggies from turning mushy?
Wait to add your potatoes, carrots, and celery until the beef is well on its way to being tender. And be sure to chop them into good-sized chunks so they hold their shape during the final simmer.
Can I halve or double the batch?
Of course! Just keep the ingredient ratios the same. If you’re doubling, your cook time may need a slight bump, especially during the simmering stage.
You’ve got all the answers—now let’s tie it all together with a cozy little send-off!
Conclusion
There’s just something special about a pot of Hawaiian beef stew bubbling away on the stove. It brings everyone to the kitchen, fills the house with comfort, and turns a simple meal into a moment worth sharing. Whether you’re serving it on a busy weeknight or saving it for a slow weekend, this recipe is one of those dependable dishes you’ll come back to again and again. If you give this Hawaiian beef stew recipe a try, I’d truly love to hear how it turned out for you. Drop a review and let me know how your version came together — it always means a lot to hear from your kitchen to mine.
