Name: Luau Stew Made Quick And Easy In The Instant Pot
Prep time: PT-487092H6M12S
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: PT-487092H6M12S
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 1 lb luau (taro) leaves, trimmed and sliced into strips; 1½ lb beef stew meat, trimmed and cubed; 4 slices fresh ginger; Hawaiian salt, to taste; 1 tsp Better Than Bouillon Beef Base (or similar); 1 cup water

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Short Description

A comforting Hawaiian-inspired stew combining tender beef and luau (taro) leaves in a richly seasoned broth—adapted for modern kitchens using the convenience of an Instant Pot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this stew because:

It uses classic Hawaiian ingredients like luau leaves and ginger for authentic flavor.
The Instant Pot speeds up traditional simmering for effortless cooking.
Taro leaves and beef meld into a deeply savory, nourishing dish.
Minimal prep and cleanup make it ideal for busy days without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb luau (taro) leaves, trimmed and sliced into strips
1½ lb beef stew meat, trimmed and cubed
4 slices fresh ginger
Hawaiian salt, to taste
1 tsp Better Than Bouillon Beef Base (or similar)
1 cup water

Directions

Set Instant Pot To Sauté Mode
Turn Instant Pot to sauté mode and preheat briefly.
Trim And Prepare Luau Leaves
Remove thick veins and stems from the luau leaves. Rinse thoroughly. Roll leaves and slice into strips.
Combine Ingredients
Add beef stew meat, ginger slices, Hawaiian salt, beef base, and water to the pot. Stir lightly, then layer in the sliced luau leaves.
Cook Under Pressure
Seal the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Switch off sauté mode, then select manual high‑pressure cooking for 25 minutes.
Release The Pressure
After cooking, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Servings And Timing

Servings: 4–6 servings depending on appetite and portion size
Prep Time: ~10–15 minutes (trimming leaves and assembling ingredients)
Cook Time: 25 minutes under pressure
Total Time: Approximately 45 minutes including pressure release

Variations

Use chicken or pork instead of beef for a different protein base.
Add sliced onion or garlic during the sauté step for extra flavor.
Stir in coconut milk after cooking for a creamier, island-style stew.
Enhance spice with a dash of crushed red pepper or chopped chili.
Mix in chopped taro root or sweet potato for added texture and heartiness.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate cooled stew in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in a microwave until warmed through. Add extra water or broth if the consistency has thickened.
Not recommended for freezing—taro leaves change texture when thawed, but you may freeze portions if consumed within 1 month.

FAQs

What Are Luau (Taro) Leaves?

Luau leaves are edible taro leaves used in Hawaiian cuisine. They require careful trimming to remove tough veins and stems, then finely sliced before cooking.

Is Hawaiian Salt Essential?

Hawaiian salt adds a distinctive mineral-rich flavor, but kosher or sea salt can be substituted based on preference.

Can I Use Beef Broth Instead Of Beef Base And Water?

Yes. Simply replace the beef base and water with 1 cup of prepared beef broth for equal or greater depth of flavor.

Why Use Instant Pot Instead Of Stovetop Simmering?

The pressure cooking process reduces traditional cooking time while delivering deep flavor and tender meat—without constant attention.

Can I Skip The Ginger?

Ginger adds brightness and helps balance flavors. Omitting it is fine, but the stew will taste more mild.

How Do I Know When The Stew Is Done?

After cooking and pressure release, the beef should be fork-tender and the taro leaves tender and integrated into the broth.

Can I Add Vegetables?

Yes—vegetables like carrots or daikon added before sealing the pot will cook alongside the stew for added nutrition.

Can I Make It Vegan?

You can substitute vegan “beef” base and use mushrooms instead of meat—though flavor and texture will differ.

Is This Dish Spicy?

No—it’s naturally mild. Spice level can be adjusted by adding crushed red pepper or chili slices if desired.

What Should I Serve It With?

Traditionally served with steamed rice. It also pairs well with crusty bread or Hawaiian poi for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot version of Luau Stew combines island tradition with modern convenience, giving you tender beef and luscious taro leaves in a rich, savory broth—with minimal effort. It’s wholesome, flavorful, and a great way to bring a taste of Hawaii to your everyday table.