Loco Moco: A Hawaiian Classic

This dish is a Hawaiian classic, featuring a hearty combination of white rice, savory beef patty, rich gravy, and a fried egg. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please any palate

The dish Loco Moco is a popular Hawaiian dish, which originated in the island of Hawaii. It is considered as a local comfort food which is said to have been created in the 1940s by a restaurant in Hilo, Hawaii.

The name "Loco Moco" is said to have come from the Spanish word "loco" which means "crazy", and "moco" which is the slang for "mochi" ( a Hawaiian word for "chubby"), it's said that the dish was named this way because the dish is so big and hearty that it could make you go crazy.

This recipe for Loco Moco is a hearty, comforting dish that features a delicious combination of flavors and textures. The base of the dish is a bed of fluffy, steaming white rice that provides a perfect canvas for the rich, savory gravy. The gravy is made by whisking together beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil, creating a thick, flavorful sauce that is both salty and slightly sweet.

The centerpiece of the dish is the beef patty, which is cooked to perfection with a crispy crust and juicy interior. The patty is seasoned with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, adding a depth of flavor that complements the gravy perfectly.

Finally, the dish is topped with a fried egg, which adds a richness and creaminess to the dish. The yolk of the egg can be runny or well done which is a matter of personal preference. The dish is finished off with a sprinkle of green onions or scallions, adding a refreshing burst of freshness to the dish.

With its rich, savory gravy, tender beef patty, and perfectly cooked egg, this Loco Moco recipe is a satisfying, comforting dish that is sure to please any palate.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of meat for the beef patty?

A: Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but the cooking time will vary. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook than white rice, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: Can I make the gravy ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make the gravy ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before serving.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe vegetarian by using a vegetarian patty or tofu, and you can make it vegan by using a vegan patty and omitting the egg.

Q: Can I use a different type of oil for frying the egg?

A: Yes, you can use any oil that has a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil.

Q: Can I use a different type of green onion or scallions?

A: Yes, you can use any type of green onions or scallions that you prefer. If you can't find green onions or scallions, you can use chives as a substitute.

Make it

Loco Moco Recipe

Ingredients:

2 cups of water

2 cups of white rice

Pinch of kosher salt

1 1/2 cups beef broth

4 tsp regular soy sauce

1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

2 tsp ketchup

2 tsp white sugar

4 tsp cornstarch

A couple of drops of sesame oil

1 tbsp butter

2 beef patties (about 1/2 lb each, 80/20 beef)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

1 egg

Pinch of salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper

Green onions or scallions for garnish

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

Rinse the rice in cold water to remove most of the starch.

In a large pot over high heat, add 2 cups of water and a pinch of kosher salt. Bring the water to a boil.

Add the rice to the pot, put the lid on, and place in the center of the oven for 25 minutes.

While the rice cooks, in a small mixing bowl, add 1 1/2 cups beef broth, 4 tsp soy sauce, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, 2 tsp ketchup, 2 tsp white sugar, 4 tsp cornstarch, and a couple of drops of sesame oil. Whisk the ingredients together and set aside.

In a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tbsp of butter. Add the beef patties and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for 5 minutes per side, or until a nice crust forms. Remove from skillet and let rest for a couple of minutes.

Add the gravy mixture to the same skillet and let simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens. Deglaze the bottom of the pan to get all the flavor from the beef.

In a small frying pan, over medium heat, add 1 tbsp of extra virgin olive oil. Once the pan is hot, add the egg, and season with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.

To assemble the loco moco, place white rice on the bottom of the plate. Add the beef patty on top of the rice. Smother with the gravy. Place the egg on top of the beef patty. Garnish with green onions or scallions. Serve and enjoy!