Loco Moco Recipe and Cafe 100

My favorite food on the planet was a good loco moco at Cafe 100 with my mom and dad when we traveled to Hilo, Big Island, Hawaii, on business. The only place on the planet we ever considered having loco moco was at Cafe 100, which is supposed to be the best place on the planet for real loco moco. I think I am going to make some loco moco this weekend!

Loco Moco (loh-koo moh-koo) is Hawaii's original homemade fast food and can be found at just about any fast food joint, roadside diner, mom and pop restaurant or lunch wagon in the Islands. It is truly unique to Hawaii, and it is comfort food, or "local grind," of the Hawaiian Islands. Local food is not the cuisine that is served in upscale hotels and restaurants of Hawaii. It's basic structure was established soon after World War II - the best fast food or mixture of cuisines from many Pacific rim countries, with a special Hawaiian twist.

Loco Moco is a mountainous meal consisting of a heap of white rice topped with a hamburger patty and a Sunnyside-up egg, and then smothered in gravy. This dish is popular for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and is a candidate for the Cholesterol Hall of Fame. As you eat, break the egg - then blend the burger, egg, rice, and gravy on your fork for each bite for a real taste of paradise.

There are many people who claim to have invented Loco Moco, but it is generally agreed that around 1949, either the Cafe 100 or the Lincoln Grill (both in Hilo, Hawaii) originated the first dish of Loco Moco. According to the story, the dish was created for teenagers who wanted something different from typical American sandwiches and less time-consuming than Asian food to eat for breakfast. The nickname of the first boy to eat this concoction was Loco ("crazy" in Portuguese and Hawaiian pidgin). Moco rhymed with loco and sounded great, so Loco Moco became the name of the dish.

Loco Moco Recipe for Four

Ingredients

For the Hamburger Patties:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 egg
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Gravy:

• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dish:

• 4 cups cooked white rice
• 4 eggs
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying eggs)
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions

Instructions

For the Hamburger Patties:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
3. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
4. Fry the patties until they are browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the patties from the skillet and set aside.

For the Gravy:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the beef broth to a boil.
2. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
3. Slowly add the slurry to the boiling broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat and simmer until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

For the Eggs:

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Crack the eggs into the skillet and cook until the whites are set, but the yolks are still runny (sunny side up), about 3-4 minutes. Cook longer if you prefer firmer yolks.

Assembling the Loco Moco:

1. Divide the cooked white rice among four plates.
2. Place a hamburger patty on top of the rice on each plate.
3. Spoon the gravy generously over the hamburger patties and rice.
4. Top each patty with a fried egg.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

Loco Moco Recipe for One

Ingredients

For the Hamburger Patty:

• 1/4 lb ground beef
• 2 tablespoons bread crumbs
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped onion
• 1/4 egg (whisk an egg and use 1/4 of it)
• 1 teaspoon milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Gravy:

• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/2 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/2 tablespoon water
• 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dish:

• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tablespoon vegetable oil (for frying egg)
• Optional garnish: chopped green onions

Instructions

For the Hamburger Patty:

1. In a small bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, chopped onion, 1/4 of the whisked egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into a patty.
3. Heat 1/2 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
4. Fry the patty until it is browned and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the patty from the skillet and set aside.

For the Gravy:

1. In a small saucepan, bring the beef broth to a boil.
2. In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
3. Slowly add the slurry to the boiling broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat and simmer until the gravy thickens, about 3-5 minutes.

For the Egg:

1. Heat 1/2 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
2. Crack the egg into the skillet and cook until the white is set but the yolk is still runny (sunny side up), about 3-4 minutes. Cook longer if you prefer a firmer yolk.

Assembling the Loco Moco:

1. Place the cooked white rice on a plate.
2. Place the hamburger patty on top of the rice.
3. Spoon the gravy generously over the hamburger patty and rice.
4. Top the patty with the fried egg.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.

Enjoy your single-serving loco moco!

Cafe 100 the Home of the Loco Moco

Cafe 100 is a well-known eatery located in Hilo, Hawaii, with a rich history and a strong local presence. Here's a comprehensive overview of Cafe 100:

History and Background

• Founded: Cafe 100 was established in 1946 by Richard and Ellen Miyashiro.
• Name Origin: The name "Cafe 100" is derived from the 100th Infantry Battalion, a highly decorated unit of Japanese-American soldiers who served during World War II. Richard Miyashiro was a member of this battalion.
• Location: The cafe is situated in Hilo, on the Big Island of Hawaii. Its address is 969 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, HI 96720.

Signature Dishes and Specialties

• Loco Moco: Cafe 100 is renowned for its loco moco, a quintessential Hawaiian dish. The cafe offers various versions of this popular meal, which traditionally includes rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. Cafe 100 claims to have originated the loco moco in 1949.
• Diverse Menu:In addition to loco moco, Cafe 100 serves a wide array of local Hawaiian favorites, including:
  • Plate lunches with options like teriyaki beef, chicken katsu, and kalua pork.
  • Saimin, a Hawaiian noodle soup influenced by Japanese cuisine.
  • Breakfast items, such as spam, eggs, and Portuguese sausage.
  • Desserts like malasadas (Portuguese donuts).

Cultural and Community Impact

• Local Favorite: Cafe 100 has a strong following among locals and tourists alike, known for its affordable prices and hearty portions.
• Cultural Significance: The cafe reflects the multicultural heritage of Hawaii, blending flavors and culinary traditions from various cultures, including Japanese, Portuguese, and American influences.
• Community Involvement: Cafe 100 often participates in community events and supports local initiatives, contributing to its reputation as a beloved local establishment.

Atmosphere and Experience

• Casual Dining: The cafe offers a casual, no-frills dining experience, with counter service and a laid-back atmosphere. It's a popular spot for quick and satisfying meals.
• Takeout and Dine-In: Customers can choose to dine in or take their meals to go, making it a convenient option for busy locals and visitors exploring Hilo.

Legacy and Recognition

• Longevity: Having been in operation for over seven decades, Cafe 100 is considered a historic and iconic eatery in Hilo.
• Media Features: The cafe has been featured in various travel guides, food blogs, and media outlets, highlighting its significance in Hawaii's culinary scene.

Cafe 100 remains a cherished institution in Hilo, known for its comfort food, local flavors, and enduring legacy.

FAQ

Q1: What is loco moco? A1: Loco moco is a traditional Hawaiian dish typically consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. It's a comfort food favorite in Hawaii.

Q2: Who invented the loco moco? A2: The loco moco was reportedly invented at Cafe 100 in Hilo, Hawaii, in 1949. The dish was created to provide a cheap and filling meal for local teenagers.

Q3: Where is Cafe 100 located? A3: Cafe 100 is located at 969 Kilauea Avenue, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720.

Q4: What makes Cafe 100's loco moco special? A4: Cafe 100's loco moco is special due to its historical significance as the originator of the dish, along with its classic preparation method that has been enjoyed by locals and visitors for decades.

Q5: What other dishes does Cafe 100 serve? A5: In addition to loco moco, Cafe 100 offers a variety of Hawaiian comfort foods, including plate lunches, saimin (Hawaiian noodle soup), breakfast items like spam and eggs, and desserts such as malasadas (Portuguese donuts).

Q6: Is Cafe 100 suitable for a quick meal? A6: Yes, Cafe 100 is known for its casual dining experience and quick service, making it a convenient option for a hearty and affordable meal.

Q7: Can I get loco moco outside of Cafe 100? A7: Yes, loco moco is a popular dish throughout Hawaii and can be found at many local restaurants and diners. The recipe provided in the blog post allows you to make it at home as well.

Q8: How can I make loco moco at home? A8: The blog post provides a detailed recipe for making a classic loco moco at home, including ingredients and step-by-step instructions for the hamburger patty, gravy, rice, and egg.

Glossary

Loco Moco: A traditional Hawaiian dish consisting of rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.

Cafe 100: A historic eatery in Hilo, Hawaii, known for its affordable comfort food and for being the originator of the loco moco.

Hamburger Patty: Ground beef shaped into a flat round shape and cooked, typically used in hamburgers or dishes like loco moco.

Gravy: A sauce made from the juices of cooked meat, often thickened with flour or cornstarch. In loco moco, brown gravy is used.

Saimin: A noodle soup dish from Hawaii influenced by Japanese cuisine, often featuring noodles, broth, and various toppings.

Malasadas: Portuguese donuts that are deep-fried and coated in sugar, popular in Hawaii.

Plate Lunch: A popular Hawaiian meal consisting of an entrée (like teriyaki beef or chicken katsu), rice, and macaroni salad.

Portuguese Sausage: A type of sausage from Portuguese cuisine that is popular in Hawaii, often served with breakfast.

Kilauea Avenue: A street in Hilo, Hawaii, where Cafe 100 is located.

Comfort Food: Food that provides consolation or a feeling of well-being, often associated with home-cooked meals and traditional dishes.

Japanese-American Cuisine: Culinary traditions from Japanese Americans that blend Japanese and American ingredients and techniques.

Portuguese Cuisine: Culinary traditions from Portugal, which have influenced Hawaiian food culture significantly.

Community Cafe: A local eatery that is deeply integrated into the community, often known for its friendly atmosphere and local dishes.

According to John Penisten of the web site Tropi-Ties, Inc:

Rudy Legaspi, former member and unofficial historian of the Tropi-Ties (also recently retired Executive Assistant to the Mayor of Hawaii County and admitted loco-moco fanatic) says "The loco-moco had its origins with the Lincoln Wreckers Athletic Club, an informal organization for local teenagers, in the late 1940s. The group used to hang out at the Lincoln Grill Restaurant across the street from Lincoln Park in downtown Hilo.

The Lincoln Wreckers, who played in the local "bare-foot" football league of the time, had some success on the field, but its main claim to fame was their creation of the loco-moco. The popular local dish has become a staple on restaurant menus throughout the islands and is a recognized cultural cuisine icon, as much as a taco is to Mexican fare or a pizza to Italian fare.

The loco moco story began in 1949 after Richard and Nancy Inouye opened the Lincoln Grill Restaurant. The teens used to hang-out at the eatery, playing the pinball machines, cards, dropping nickels in the Wurlitzer jukebox and constantly feeding their hungry appetites. And in those days, when teens didn't have much money in their pockets, the standard fare was a bowl of saimin noodles or a hamburger, things which didn't quite fill the always hungry teens.

So the club devised a plan to ask the Inouyes to create a special dish just for them, something filling and affordable. For the task, the Wreckers nominated a guy nicknamed "Crazy" for his wild and madcap play on the football field. "Crazy" approached the Inouyes with the club's request and the rest is history."

Loco Moco on Wikipedia

The Loco Moco is a dish unique to Hawaiian cuisine. There are many variations, but the essential loco moco consists of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. Variations may include bacon, ham, kalua pork, Portuguese sausage, teriyaki beef, teriyaki chicken, mahi-mahi, shrimp, oyster, and other meats.

Its roots are not entirely clear. James Kelly writes that the dish was created in 1949 by the Inouye family, who owned the Lincoln Grill in Hilo, Hawaii in 1949. In keeping with the standards of Japanese Cuisine, they used rice as a staple starch and finished it off with the hamburger and gravy to create a dish that did not require the preparation time of bento. The egg was added shortly thereafter. The name derives from the nickname of one of the teenagers who frequented the restaurant ('Loco') combined with a rhyming ('moco'), meaning snot. It is a widespread and popular dish in Hawaii and a favorite of local fast food restaurants, but is almost completely unknown elsewhere, except for in Japan where it is very popular.

Loco Moco is also the name of an American restaurant chain featuring Hawaiian rice bowl dishes.