Loco Moco (Hawaiian Lunch)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loco Moco is the ultimate comfort food, offering a mouthwatering combination of juicy beef patties, fried eggs, and flavorful brown gravy, all on top of a bed of tender rice. It’s filling, hearty, and packed with umami-rich flavors. The dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal without a lot of effort. Whether you’re craving something new or looking to explore Hawaiian cuisine, Loco Moco is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the beef patty:

• 450 grams ground beef
• 30 milliliters soy sauce
• 1 egg
• 60 milliliters breadcrumbs
• 30 grams green onions, finely chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

For the rice and toppings:

• 600 grams cooked white rice
• 4 eggs
• 240 milliliters brown gravy

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the beef patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, soy sauce, egg, breadcrumbs, green onions, salt, and black pepper. Mix the ingredients together until well combined, but avoid overworking the meat to keep the patties tender.
2. Shape the beef mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
3. Cook the patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they’re browned and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and set them aside.
4. Prepare the eggs: In the same skillet, crack the eggs and fry them to your desired level of doneness (sunny side up is traditional for Loco Moco). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. Warm the brown gravy: Heat the brown gravy in a small saucepan over low heat until warm.
6. Assemble the Loco Moco: Place a serving of cooked rice on each plate. Top each with a beef patty, then a fried egg, and finally pour the warm brown gravy over the top.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef patty with a veggie patty made from lentils, beans, or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat for a plant-based Loco Moco.
• Add Cheese: Top your beef patty with a slice of cheese (such as cheddar or Swiss) for a creamy, cheesy twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add some sriracha sauce or chopped jalapeños to the brown gravy for a spicy version of Loco Moco.
• Gravy Options: Experiment with different types of gravy, such as mushroom gravy or onion gravy, for a unique variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Loco Moco can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the beef patties, eggs, and gravy in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You can also reheat the rice in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a leaner version. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use instant rice for this recipe?

While you can use instant rice in a pinch, fresh, cooked white rice will yield the best texture and flavor for this dish.

Can I make the beef patties ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef patties in advance. Form the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

How do I make sure the egg yolk stays runny?

To keep the egg yolk runny, fry the egg on low to medium heat, and be careful not to overcook it. It should take about 2-3 minutes per side for a sunny-side-up egg.

Can I make the brown gravy from scratch?

Absolutely! You can make your own brown gravy using a simple roux (flour and butter) and beef broth or stock. Add salt, pepper, and any seasonings you like to adjust the flavor.

Can I freeze Loco Moco?

While you can freeze the cooked beef patties and rice separately, the fried eggs and gravy are best enjoyed fresh. If you do freeze the components, reheat them carefully in the microwave or oven, but be mindful that the texture may change slightly.

Can I use white gravy instead of brown gravy?

Yes, white gravy can be used as a substitute if you prefer it, though the traditional Loco Moco uses brown gravy.

Can I make Loco Moco with a poached egg?

Yes, you can make Loco Moco with a poached egg instead of a fried egg for a slightly different texture.

Can I make this dish with fried tofu instead of beef?

Yes, you can use fried tofu for a vegetarian or vegan version of Loco Moco, adding extra flavor by marinating the tofu before frying.

What can I serve with Loco Moco?

Loco Moco is typically a one-bowl dish, but you could serve it with a side of salad, steamed vegetables, or some fresh pineapple to balance the richness.

Conclusion

Loco Moco is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that combines juicy beef patties, a perfectly fried egg, and savory brown gravy over a bed of white rice. It’s a classic Hawaiian favorite that’s sure to satisfy any craving for something rich and filling. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, Loco Moco offers a delicious taste of Hawaii that’s simple to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

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