Hawaiian Chili
A unique take on chili with a tropical twist, this recipe combines savory ground beef and Portuguese sausage with the sweet tang of pineapple and a touch of soy sauce. This hearty, comforting one-pot meal is a local Hawaiian favorite, perfect served over a bed of fluffy white rice for an authentic plate lunch experience.
For 6 servings
5 steps. 60 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Brown Sausage & Sauté Aromatics
- b.Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
- c.Add the sliced Portuguese sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- d.Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté in the sausage fat until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- e.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook Ground Beef & Spices
- b.Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- c.Carefully drain off any excess grease from the pot.
- d.Stir in the chili powder and ground cumin. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and deepen their flavor.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Combine Ingredients
- b.Return the cooked Portuguese sausage to the pot.
- c.Add the crushed tomatoes, rinsed kidney beans, undrained crushed pineapple, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
- d.Stir everything together thoroughly to combine.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer the Chili
- b.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
- c.Cover the pot and let the chili simmer for at least 45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. For a richer, more developed flavor, simmer for up to 1.5 hours.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Season and Serve
- b.Stir in the salt and black pepper.
- c.Taste the chili and adjust seasonings as needed. You may want more salt for savoriness, or a little more brown sugar for sweetness.
- d.Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions. It is traditionally served over steamed white rice.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, allow the chili to simmer for at least an hour. The longer it cooks, the more the sweet, savory, and tangy flavors will meld together.
- 2This chili is even better the next day. Make it ahead of time for an easy meal prep solution.
- 3Don't skip draining the fat after browning the meats. This step is crucial to prevent a greasy final product.
- 4For an authentic Hawaiian plate lunch, serve the chili with a scoop of white rice and a side of creamy macaroni salad.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicier Chili
Add one or two minced jalapeños or a serrano pepper along with the onion for a spicy kick. A dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end also works well.
Different MeatsDifferent Meats
If you can't find Portuguese sausage, a good quality smoked sausage or kielbasa can be used. You can also substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Vegetarian VersionVegetarian Version
For a vegetarian chili, replace the ground beef and sausage with plant-based crumbles and a smoked, plant-based sausage. Use a vegetarian Worcestershire sauce or extra soy sauce for umami.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
With both ground beef and sausage, this chili provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
The kidney beans are packed with dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, and contributes to a feeling of fullness.
Contains Antioxidants
The cooked tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases. The garlic and onions also provide beneficial plant compounds.
Frequently asked questions
A 1.5-cup serving of Hawaiian Chili contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the fat content of the meats used. This is a hearty, complete meal, especially when served with rice.