Loco Moco
A hearty Hawaiian comfort food classic featuring a bed of steamed rice, topped with a juicy hamburger patty, a perfectly fried egg with a runny yolk, and smothered in rich brown gravy. Often served with a side of macaroni salad.
🧂 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
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
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
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
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
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.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- 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.