Loco Moco Hawaiian Lunch

Loco Moco is pure Hawaiian comfort food layered with savory ground beef patties, fluffy white rice, rich brown gravy, and the crowning glory of a perfectly fried egg. It is filling, deeply satisfying, and always brings a little bit of Aloha spirit to the table whether you need a hearty lunch or a soul-nourishing dinner.

I was introduced to Loco Moco on my first trip to Oahu and after the first bite I knew I had to learn to make it myself. Now it’s my go-to comfort meal whenever someone in my family needs a pick-me-up or just wants a taste of vacation.

Ingredients

• Medium grain white rice: gives the dish its sticky texture look for fresh rice and avoid anything too old or dry

• Beef stock: brings depth to the gravy choose a rich flavorful stock

• Cornstarch: thickens the gravy ensuring it is glossy and smooth

• Onion powder: blends into the sauce for a round mellow flavor

• Shoyu: also known as soy sauce provides the essential salty kick and umami go for a naturally brewed variety

• Beef bouillon paste: boosts the savory notes pick a concentrated type for best results

• Heavy cream: adds a silky finish to the gravy even a splash can mellow all the flavors

• Ground beef: forms the base of the patties use 80 percent lean for juicy burgers

• Egg: acts as a binder for burgers and also tops the dish pick large fresh eggs with bright yolks

• Diced onion: gives the patties flavor and moisture choose sweet onions if you can

• Panko breadcrumbs: bind and provide a tender bite Japanese style panko is best

• Ketchup and mayonnaise: round out the patties for a touch of sweetness and richness

• Salt and black pepper: are essential for seasoning taste as you go for perfect balance

• Cooking oil: is necessary for frying eggs use a neutral oil with a high smoke point

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Rice:

Rinse the medium grain white rice under cool running water until the water runs clear which removes excess starch for fluffier grains. Combine the rinsed rice with water in a rice cooker and start cooking following your rice cooker instructions until all the water is absorbed and the rice is tender but not mushy.

Make the Brown Gravy:

Combine beef stock cornstarch onion powder shoyu and beef bouillon paste in a small pot. Whisk thoroughly to dissolve the cornstarch completely as this will prevent lumps. Set the pot over medium heat and keep whisking until the gravy thickens and becomes glossy. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream which helps balance and finish the sauce with a luxurious texture. Set aside and keep warm.

Form and Cook the Burger Patties:

In a large mixing bowl add ground beef one egg diced onion panko breadcrumbs ketchup mayonnaise salt and pepper. Use your hands or a sturdy spoon to mix everything just until evenly combined being careful not to overwork the meat. Shape the mixture into six even patties and press them gently to keep an even thickness which ensures even cooking. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until it feels hot when you hold your hand above it. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for several minutes on each side until well browned and fully cooked through. Move the finished patties to a plate and cover loosely to keep warm while you prepare the eggs.

Fry the Eggs:

Add a small amount of cooking oil to a skillet and warm over medium heat. Crack an egg into the skillet letting it sit undisturbed until the edges turn golden and crispy but the yolk is still runny. To make the eggs over easy gently flip and finish cooking until the whites are completely set. Repeat with the remaining eggs seasoning each with a touch of salt and pepper.

Assemble the Loco Moco:

Scoop a generous serving of rice onto each plate. Top the rice with one juicy burger patty. Ladle the warm brown gravy over both the patty and the rice making sure it soaks in. Place a fried egg on top of each serving and enjoy right away while everything is piping hot.

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The burger patty is my absolute favorite part especially when the gravy mingles with the crispy bits from searing the meat. My kids love the runny egg on top and it never fails to remind us of lazy brunch weekends in Hawaii where we could taste the ocean air and Aloha spirit with every forkful.

Storage Tips

Loco Moco keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store the rice and patties together in one container and the gravy separately to prevent sogginess. Reheat rice and patties in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring back moisture. Cook fresh eggs just before serving for the best texture and appearance.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef although the flavor will be lighter. For a gluten free version use gluten free breadcrumbs and tamari in place of soy sauce. If you like a richer gravy use a splash of half-and-half instead of heavy cream but avoid using milk as it might separate when heated.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Loco Moco with a side of steamed broccoli pickled cucumbers or a simple green salad to balance the richness. Some locals like to add a few shakes of hot sauce or a spoonful of kimchi on the side for a little zing. It makes a fun brunch centerpiece when you are feeding a crowd.

Cultural Context

Loco Moco is iconic in Hawaiian cuisine having originated in the late 1940s as an affordable and filling meal for hungry surfers and students. It represents the melting pot of cultures in Hawaii blending Asian American and local Island flavors in every bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of rice works best?

Medium-grain white rice is traditional, providing the perfect texture to soak up the savory gravy.

→ Can I prepare the gravy ahead of time?

Yes, make the brown gravy in advance and reheat gently before serving. Stir well to restore smoothness.

→ How do I keep the burger patties juicy?

Incorporate egg, panko, and mayonnaise into the beef mixture, and avoid overcooking for the juiciest results.

→ How should the eggs be cooked?

Sunnyside or over-easy ensures a runny yolk, adding richness and flavor to the dish.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?

Swap in your favorite plant-based patties and use a mushroom-based gravy for a meatless version.

→ What sides pair well with loco moco?

Try serving with a crisp green salad, pickled vegetables, or a scoop of macaroni salad for a complete meal.