Loco Moco Hawaiian Lunch – A Classic Island Comfort Food

If you’re looking to explore the heart of Hawaiian comfort cuisine, look no further than the Loco Moco. This iconic dish is a hearty, savory, and satisfying meal made with a juicy beef patty, fluffy white rice, rich brown gravy, and a perfectly fried egg on top.

 What Is Loco Moco?

Originating in Hawaii in the 1940s, Loco Moco was created as a budget-friendly, protein-packed meal for local teens. Over the years, it became a staple across the islands and beyond, loved for its simple ingredients and incredible flavor.

 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-bowl meal – Easy cleanup & satisfying portions

• Authentic Hawaiian comfort with simple ingredients

• Perfect for lunch or dinner (and yes, even breakfast!)

• Customizable with different gravies, proteins, and rice types

 Ingredients

For the Beef Patties:

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for firmer patties)

For the Gravy:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp flour

• 2 cups beef stock

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)

• Dash of Worcestershire sauce

For Serving:

• 2 cups white medium grain rice (cooked)

• 4 large eggs

• Green onions, for garnish (optional)

 Instructions

1. Cook the Rice

Start by cooking the white rice according to package instructions. Set aside and keep warm.

2. Make the Beef Patties

In a bowl, combine ground beef, egg, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs. Form into 4 thick patties. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove and keep warm.

3. Prepare the Gravy

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually add beef stock while whisking until smooth. Add soy sauce, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.

4. Fry the Eggs

In a nonstick skillet, fry eggs sunny side up or over-easy to your liking.

5. Assemble the Loco Moco

Place a scoop of rice on each plate. Top with a beef patty, pour hot gravy over the top, and finish with a fried egg. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.

 Notes & Tips

• Make it lighter with turkey or plant-based patties

• Try brown rice for a heartier twist

• Spice it up with chili flakes or sriracha

• Add caramelized onions or mushrooms for even more depth

 What to Serve with Loco Moco

• Macaroni salad or coleslaw

• Sautéed spinach or bok choy

• Fresh pineapple slices or mango salsa

Loco Moco Hawaiian Lunch

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• Author: kecha

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Description

Loco Moco is a traditional Hawaiian comfort food featuring a juicy beef patty over a bed of rice, topped with rich brown gravy and a sunny-side-up egg. It’s savory, hearty, and satisfying — perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner with island flair.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Patties:

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Gravy:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups beef stock

• 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

• 2 cups cooked white medium grain rice

• 4 large eggs

• Sliced green onions (for garnish) (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Rice:
   Cook white rice according to package instructions and keep warm.

2. Make the Beef Patties:
   In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 equal patties.
   Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 4–5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Set aside.

3. Make the Gravy:
   In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
   Slowly pour in beef stock while whisking constantly until smooth. Stir in soy sauce, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened (5–7 minutes).

4. Fry the Eggs:
   In a clean skillet, fry eggs sunny-side up or to your preference.

5. Assemble:
   On each plate, place a scoop of rice, top with a beef patty, spoon over hot gravy, and crown it with a fried egg. Garnish with green onions if desired.

Notes

• For a twist: Try using turkey or plant-based patties.

• Rice options: Medium grain is traditional, but jasmine or brown rice also work well.

• Gravy boost: Add mushrooms or onions for added flavor and texture.

• Make-ahead: Patties and gravy can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.