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The Melting Pot
Loco Moco hero image coming soon
1946-1969 - Hawaiian food trucks, diners, and Portuguese-American communities
Loco Moco is a Hawaiian dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, fried egg, and brown gravy. It reflects a fusion of Hawaiian, Asian-Pacific American, and Portuguese-American culinary influences and became popular in Hawaii post World War II.
Difficulty
Medium
Prep time
15 minutes
Cook time
20 minutes
Total time
35 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Region
Hawaii
Era introduced
1946-1969
Introduced by
Hawaiian food trucks, diners, and Portuguese-American communities
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Loco Moco originated in Hawaii in the mid-20th century as an affordable and filling meal combining American hamburger elements with local tastes, including rice and gravy. Its layered composition illustrates the unique culinary blending characteristic of Hawaiian food culture, influenced by Native Hawaiian, Asian-Pacific, and Portuguese immigrant communities. The dish is a staple of Hawaiian diners and food trucks, celebrated for its hearty and comforting qualities.
Loco Moco developed in Hawaii post-World War II; this recipe reflects commonly accepted preparation methods.
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