Loco Moco

🧂 Ingredients

• 3 cups Cooked white rice(Preferably short-grain or medium-grain rice, cooked according to package directions and kept warm.)
• 1 pound Ground beef(80/20 lean-to-fat ratio is ideal for flavor and juiciness.)
• 4 Egg(For frying, one per serving.)
• 2 cups Brown gravy(Store-bought or homemade. Ensure it's hot and pourable.)
• for serving Macaroni salad(Optional, but a traditional accompaniment.)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt(For seasoning the beef.)
• 1/4 teaspoon Black pepper(For seasoning the beef.)
• 1 tablespoon Vegetable oil or butter(For frying the eggs and searing the patties.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the hamburger patties: Divide the ground beef into 4 equal portions. Gently form each portion into a patty, about 3/4-inch thick. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper. Avoid overworking the meat, as this can make the patties tough.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
2. 2

   Cook the hamburger patties: Heat 1/2 tablespoon of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat (around 200°C / 400°F). Once shimmering, carefully place the patties in the skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness. The internal temperature should reach at least 71°C (160°F) for ground beef. Remove patties from skillet and set aside to rest.

   ⏱️ 10 minutes
3. 3

   Fry the eggs: In the same skillet (add remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil or butter if needed), reduce heat to medium (around 175°C / 350°F). Crack one egg into the skillet for each serving. Cook until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny, about 2-3 minutes. You can gently spoon some hot oil over the whites to help them cook faster. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
4. 4

   Warm the gravy: While the eggs are frying, gently heat the brown gravy in a saucepan over low heat, or microwave it until hot. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Ensure it's hot and pourable before serving.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
5. 5

   Assemble the Loco Moco: Divide the warm cooked rice among four shallow bowls or plates. Place one hamburger patty on top of the rice in each bowl. Carefully slide a fried egg, yolk-side up, onto each patty. Generously ladle the hot brown gravy over the patty and egg, allowing it to cascade down the sides. Serve immediately, optionally with a side of macaroni salad.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓The runny yolk is crucial for creating a rich sauce when mixed with the gravy and rice.
• ✓Don't be shy with the gravy; it's a signature element of the Loco Moco.
• ✓This dish is a staple of Hawaiian 'plate lunches' and is perfect for a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

🔄 Variations

• Add a slice of grilled Spam on top of the hamburger patty.
• Substitute the hamburger patty with a crispy fried chicken cutlet.
• For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based patty.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving