Loco Moco
Our Family Story
Loco Moco was invented in 1949 at Lincoln Grill in Hilo, Hawaii. A group of teenagers wanted something quick, cheap, and filling - and this iconic dish was born. Our family has been making it for generations, and it remains a favorite comfort food for any time of day.
Recipe from: Family Recipe
Ingredients
Hamburger Patties
Rice
Eggs
Brown Gravy
Substitutions
Instructions
- 1
Cook the rice according to package directions. Keep warm while preparing the rest of the dish.
Tip: Day-old rice works great too - just reheat it.
- 2
Mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Form into 4 equal patties, about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indent in the center of each patty to prevent puffing.
Tip: Handle the meat gently - overworking makes tough patties.
- 3
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side for medium doneness. Remove and set aside, keeping warm.
- 4
In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
Tip: This is your roux - the base for a rich gravy.
- 5
Slowly whisk in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 6
In a separate pan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Fry the eggs to your preference - traditionally sunny-side up with runny yolks.
Tip: Runny yolks are traditional - they mix with the gravy beautifully.
- 7
To assemble: Place a scoop of rice on each plate, top with a hamburger patty, ladle gravy generously over the patty, and crown with a fried egg. Serve immediately.
Loco Moco is the ultimate Hawaiian comfort food - a hearty combination of rice, a juicy hamburger patty, rich brown gravy, and a perfectly fried egg. This dish originated in Hilo in 1949 and has become a beloved staple across the islands.
The name “loco moco” is said to come from the teenagers who invented it - they wanted something “crazy” (loco) and used a nonsense word (moco) that rhymed. What started as a simple, affordable meal has become an iconic part of Hawaiian cuisine.
Our family’s version emphasizes a rich, savory gravy and a perfectly runny egg yolk that mingles with everything on the plate. It’s comfort food at its finest - simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.
Notes
Loco Moco is traditionally served with macaroni salad on the side. You can also add sauteed onions or mushrooms to the gravy for extra flavor.
Tips
- Use a rice cooker for perfect rice every time
- The gravy should be thick enough to coat a spoon
- For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth before making the gravy
Variations
- Add sauteed onions and mushrooms to the gravy
- Use a teriyaki glaze instead of brown gravy
- Substitute Portuguese sausage patties for a breakfast version
- Make it with Spam instead of hamburger for a twist
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
