Loco Moco recipe is a quintessential Hawaiian dish that combines savory flavors and comforting textures into one unforgettable meal. Originating from the Big Island, this dish has gained popularity across the Hawaiian Islands and beyond. With layers of rice, a juicy hamburger patty, a perfectly cooked egg, and a rich, savory gravy, Loco Moco is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to experience authentic Hawaiian cuisine at home.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Loco Moco Recipe
Main Ingredients
- Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground chuck for optimal flavor and texture.
- Eggs: Cooked sunny-side up or to your preference.
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for frying and caramelizing onions.
- Sweet Onion (optional): Thinly sliced to add depth of flavor.
- Mushrooms (optional): Sliced for added heartiness.
- Green Onions: For a fresh and vibrant garnish.
- Rice: Cooked Calrose rice, medium-grain white rice, or short-grain sushi rice.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory, umami-rich flavor.
- Shoyu: Soy sauce for the gravy.
- Ketchup: Provides a subtle sweetness to the gravy.
- Garlic Powder: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Seasoning Salt: Lawry’s is recommended for a classic taste.
- Cornstarch: For thickening the gravy.
Seasoning and Garnish
- Black Pepper: To taste.
- Chopped Green Onions: For garnish.
Instructions for Loco Moco Recipe
Forming the Patties
- Mixing Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, seasoning salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Forming Patties:
- Divide the beef mixture into equal portions and shape into patties, ensuring they are at least one inch thick.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the patties for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
Preparing the Gravy
- Mixing the Gravy Ingredients:
- In a bowl, combine beef stock, shoyu, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and cornstarch.
- Whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
- Cooking the Onions and Mushrooms:
- In the same pan used for the patties, melt a tablespoon of unsalted butter.
- Add thinly sliced sweet onions and mushrooms (if using) and cook until caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
- Making the Gravy:
- Pour the gravy mixture into the pan with the onions and mushrooms.
- Continuously whisk until the gravy thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Cooking the Egg
- Frying the Egg:
- In a separate pan, melt a small amount of butter.
- Fry the egg sunny-side up, or to your preferred doneness.
Assembling the Loco Moco
- Plating:
- Start with a generous serving of hot, cooked rice on a plate.
- Place a cooked hamburger patty on top of the rice.
- Drizzle with a generous amount of savory gravy.
- Top with the sunny-side-up egg.
- Garnish with chopped green onions.
Tips and Variations for Loco Moco Recipe
Cooking Tips
- Non-stick Pan: Use a non-stick pan for frying the patties to prevent sticking and ensure easy flipping.
- Gravy Consistency: Adjust the cornstarch amount if you prefer a thicker or thinner gravy.
Variations in Loco Moco Recipe
- Organic Ingredients: Opt for organic ground beef and vegetables for a healthier version.
- Grass-fed Beef: Use grass-fed beef for a more sustainable choice.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based alternatives like Impossible Burger.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with butter-fried hash browns for an interesting twist.
Storage and Reheating
Storage
- Store the rice, patties, gravy, and eggs separately in airtight containers.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating
- Reheat components separately in the microwave or on the stove.
- Assemble just before serving to maintain the texture and flavor.
15-Minute Meal Prep
Quick Tips
- Prepare Patties in Advance: Form and cook the hamburger patties ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Veggie Prep: Slice and store onions and mushrooms in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for quick assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Loco Moco Recipe?
Loco Moco Recipe is a traditional Hawaiian dish featuring layers of white rice, a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal often served for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Can I Make Loco Moco Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Cook the rice, form and cook the patties, and make the gravy. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Assemble and reheat just before serving.
What Kind of Rice Should I Use?
Calrose rice, medium-grain white rice, or short-grain sushi rice work best for Loco Moco. These types of rice offer the perfect sticky texture that complements the dish.
How Can I Make the Gravy Thicker?
To make a thicker gravy, increase the amount of cornstarch. Dissolve an additional teaspoon of cornstarch in a small amount of water and add it to the gravy mixture, whisking until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of Loco Moco Recipe?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Loco Moco by using plant-based burger patties such as Impossible Burger or Beyond Meat. The rest of the recipe remains the same.
Can I Use Other Types of Meat?
Absolutely. While ground beef is traditional, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Adjust the seasoning to complement the type of meat you choose.
How Long Does Loco Moco Last in the Refrigerator?
When stored properly in airtight containers, Loco Moco components can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. For the best quality, assemble and heat just before eating.
What Can I Serve with Loco Moco?
Loco Moco is often served with a side of macaroni salad or butter-fried hash browns. Fresh fruit or a simple green salad can also be great accompaniments.
Experience the Flavors of Hawaii: A Classic Loco Moco Recipe
Loco Moco Recipe is a beloved Hawaiian dish that is simple to make yet rich in flavor and comfort. With its layers of rice, juicy hamburger patty, perfectly fried egg, and savory gravy, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in Hawaiian cuisine. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, following this recipe will bring a taste of the islands to your table. Enjoy this classic dish and share it with family and friends for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience.
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