Hawaiian-Style Chili is a delicious twist on classic chili, featuring a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. This version includes tender ground beef, kidney beans, vegetables, and a touch of sweetness from pineapple, making it a unique and comforting dish. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or when you want to add a little tropical flair to your meal. Serve it over rice for an authentic Hawaiian-style experience, and enjoy the balance of flavors that make this chili truly special.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Hawaiian-Style Chili
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 can (8 oz) pineapple chunks, drained (reserve juice)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the kidney beans, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, pineapple chunks, soy sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using). Pour in 1/4 cup of the reserved pineapple juice for extra sweetness. Stir until well combined.
- Simmer the Chili: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the flavors meld together.
- Season and Serve: Taste the chili and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve hot over steamed rice, and garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro if desired.
Tips for Perfect Hawaiian-Style Chili
- Balance the Sweetness: The pineapple and brown sugar add a touch of sweetness to this chili. Adjust the amount of pineapple juice and sugar to suit your taste.
- Simmer for Rich Flavor: Letting the chili simmer for a bit longer will allow the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully.
- Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh bell peppers and onions add a great texture and flavor to this chili, but you can also use frozen if needed.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Hawaiian Chili: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein or extra beans for a vegetarian version.
- Hawaiian Chicken Chili: Use ground chicken or shredded cooked chicken instead of beef for a lighter alternative.
- Spicy Hawaiian Chili: Add an extra 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño pepper for more heat.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this chili in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Hawaiian-style chili?
A: Yes, you can freeze this chili. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve the chili over steamed white or jasmine rice for a classic Hawaiian-style meal.
- With Cornbread: Pair with cornbread for a delicious and comforting side.
- With Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for a fun and crunchy accompaniment.
Hawaiian-Style Chili is a flavorful and unique twist on traditional chili, combining the savory goodness of ground beef and beans with the sweetness of pineapple and a hint of spice. This dish is easy to make and perfect for adding a little tropical flair to your dinner routine. Serve it over rice for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Feel free to customize this chili to suit your tastes by adding more heat, different proteins, or extra vegetables. Share it with friends and family, and enjoy the comforting and delicious flavors of this Hawaiian-inspired dish!
