Loco Moco is a beloved Hawaiian dish that brings together rich, savory flavors and comforting textures. This iconic meal consists of a warm bed of rice topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a fried egg, and a generous serving of brown gravy. Simple yet delicious, this dish embodies the essence of Hawaiian comfort food.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Loco Moco, including its history, ingredients, step-by-step instructions, variations, and expert tips. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this Loco Moco recipe will satisfy your cravings.
A Brief History of Loco Moco Recipes
Loco Moco originated in Hilo, Hawaii, in the 1940s when a group of hungry teenagers wanted a filling and affordable meal. They asked a local restaurant, Lincoln Grill, to serve them a plate of rice topped with a hamburger patty and gravy. Later, a fried egg was added, completing what we now know as the classic Loco Moco.
Today, Loco Moco is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, enjoyed by both locals and visitors. It has evolved into various versions, incorporating different proteins, gravies, and toppings to suit different tastes.
Ingredients for the Perfect Loco Moco Recipe
Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:
For the Hamburger Patty:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend recommended)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
- 1 egg (optional for binding)
For the Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Rest of the Dish:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon butter (for frying eggs)
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking patties)
- Chopped green onions (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Start by cooking your white rice according to the package instructions. A medium-grain or short-grain rice is preferred, as it provides the ideal sticky texture to hold everything together.
Step 2: Make the Hamburger Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, and optional breadcrumbs and egg.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Divide the mixture into two to four portions and shape them into round patties, about ¾ inch thick.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil.
- Cook the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light brown color.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.
Step 4: Cook the Eggs
- In a separate non-stick pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
- Crack the eggs into the pan and cook to your desired doneness. A runny yolk is traditional, but you can cook them fully if preferred.
Step 5: Assemble the Loco Moco
- Place a generous serving of rice onto a plate.
- Set a hamburger patty on top of the rice.
- Pour a generous amount of brown gravy over the patty and rice.
- Top with a fried egg.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Variations of Loco Moco
While the classic Loco Moco is made with a beef patty, there are several delicious variations to try:
- Chicken Loco Moco: Substitute the beef patty with a grilled or fried chicken patty.
- Spam Loco Moco: Use slices of fried Spam instead of a hamburger patty for a uniquely Hawaiian twist.
- Seafood Loco Moco: Swap the patty for a grilled or breaded fish fillet, shrimp, or crab cake.
- Vegan Loco Moco: Use a plant-based burger patty and a mushroom or vegetable gravy, and substitute the egg with a tofu scramble.
Tips for the Best Loco Moco
- Use quality beef: An 80/20 ground beef blend ensures a juicy and flavorful patty.
- Don’t overmix the beef: Overmixing can make the patties dense and tough.
- Season your gravy well: Adjust the seasoning to your taste for the perfect balance of savory and umami flavors.
- Fry the egg to perfection: A runny yolk enhances the dish by mixing with the gravy and rice for a richer texture.
- Use fresh rice: Freshly cooked rice absorbs the flavors of the gravy better.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Loco Moco ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the rice, patties, and gravy in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat before serving and cook the eggs fresh.
2. What kind of rice is best for Loco Moco?
Medium-grain or short-grain white rice is ideal. It has a slightly sticky texture that holds up well with the gravy.
3. Can I freeze Loco Moco?
Yes! Cooked patties and gravy freeze well for up to two months. Store them in separate containers and thaw in the fridge before reheating. Freshly cooked rice and eggs are recommended when serving.
4. What can I serve with Loco Moco?
Loco Moco is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with a side of macaroni salad, coleslaw, or fresh pineapple slices.
Final Thoughts
Loco Moco is the ultimate Hawaiian comfort food, combining simple ingredients into a deliciously satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this dish is sure to impress. With this step-by-step guide, you can now prepare an authentic Loco Moco at home and enjoy a taste of Hawaii no matter where you are!
Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below. Aloha and happy cooking!
