Today’s the day to bring a taste of the islands to your kitchen with this ground beef Hawaiian recipe. Perfect for those who love a sweet and savory combo, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of ground beef and pineapple offers a perfect balance of savory and sweet, creating a flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- It’s incredibly versatile, serving as a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep time and ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
- It’s a fantastic way to introduce a tropical flair to your meal rotation without needing to book a flight.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup diced pineapple (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by dicing your pineapple and onion into small, bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
To the skillet with the beef, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onion starts to soften and the mixture becomes fragrant.
Step 4: Incorporate the Sweet and Savory Elements
Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle the brown sugar over the beef mixture. Stir to ensure everything is well coated. Add the diced pineapple, mixing gently to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serving
Give the mixture a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot over a bed of rice or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the ground beef in the soy sauce and brown sugar mixture for an hour before cooking. If you’re using canned pineapple, reserve some of the juice to add to the skillet for a more intense pineapple flavor. For a healthier version, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and reduce the amount of brown sugar.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Add bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, include a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Serve the mixture in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Top with toasted coconut flakes for an added tropical crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will give your dish a brighter, more vibrant flavor. Just make sure to dice it into small, uniform pieces to ensure even distribution throughout the dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative like tamari or coconut aminos. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy swap.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish reheats beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Summary
This ground beef Hawaiian recipe is a delightful mix of sweet and savory, perfect for any day of the week. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s a surefire way to bring a taste of the tropics to your table.