Hawaiian-Style Chili with Pineapple

This Hawaiian-style chili brings the perfect balance of savory and sweet to your dinner table with its unique island twist on a classic comfort food. The surprising addition of pineapple transforms ordinary chili into something truly special that will have everyone asking for your secret ingredient.

I discovered this recipe during a Hawaiian vacation years ago and have been making it ever since. My children initially questioned the pineapple addition but now specifically request this version over traditional chili especially during our football viewing parties.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Provides the hearty protein base. Look for 80/20 lean to fat ratio for best flavor
• Onions and bell peppers: Create the aromatic foundation. Choose red bells for their sweeter flavor profile
• Stewed tomatoes: Add texture and slightly sweet notes. Select fire-roasted for extra depth
• Kidney beans: Bring essential chili texture and protein. Opt for dark red variety for richer color
• Tomato sauce: Creates the perfect consistency. Choose a quality brand without added sugars
• Pineapple chunks: Deliver the signature Hawaiian sweetness. Fresh works too but canned is more convenient
• Chili powder: Adds classic heat and depth of flavor. Adjust amount to your spice preference
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors. Use kosher salt for better flavor distribution

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dutch Oven:

Heat your Dutch oven or heavy pot over high heat until it becomes very hot. This creates the perfect surface for browning meat and developing flavor. Allow at least 2 minutes for proper preheating.

Brown the Meat:

Add ground beef to the hot Dutch oven and cook until barely pink. Continuously stir and break apart the meat into small pieces using a wooden spoon. This technique ensures even cooking and better texture in the final dish.

Add the Aromatics:

Stir in the chopped onions and bell peppers with the beef. Cook until the meat has fully browned and the vegetables have softened and become translucent, which takes approximately 5 minutes. The vegetables should release their moisture and begin to sweeten.

Drain the Fat:

Pour the meat mixture into a large mesh strainer positioned over a bowl and press down firmly to remove excess fat. This crucial step prevents greasy chili and allows the other flavors to shine through.

Combine All Ingredients:

Return the drained meat mixture to the Dutch oven. Add the stewed tomatoes with their juice, kidney beans with liquid, tomato sauce, and drained pineapple chunks. The bean liquid adds body and thickens the chili.

Season and Simmer:

Season with chili powder and salt, adjusting to your taste preference. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Allow to simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chili reaches your desired thickness.

The pineapple is truly the star ingredient in this recipe. My family was initially skeptical about fruit in chili, but the way the sweet chunks balance the savory spices creates a harmonious flavor that changed their minds forever. One winter evening, my daughter actually requested this for her birthday dinner instead of the usual pizza party!

Storage and Leftovers

This Hawaiian chili actually improves with time as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth if the chili has thickened too much during storage. For longer preservation, portion the chili into freezer-safe containers leaving about an inch of headspace to allow for expansion. Frozen chili maintains excellent quality for up to three months.

Serving Suggestions

Transform this chili into a complete island-inspired meal by serving it over steamed white rice for an authentic Hawaiian plate lunch experience. For a traditional mainland approach, offer cornbread or tortilla chips alongside. Popular toppings include shredded cheddar cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, and for those who embrace the tropical theme, a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes adds delightful texture and enhances the Hawaiian vibe.

Easy Adaptations

This versatile recipe welcomes many modifications to suit your preferences. For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. Vegetarians can replace the meat with an extra can of beans or cubed firm tofu. If pineapple seems too adventurous, start with half the amount or try diced mango instead for a similar sweet contrast. Heat lovers can add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the spice level.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What makes Hawaiian-style chili unique?

The addition of pineapple chunks gives it a sweet and tropical flavor, making it distinct from traditional chili.

→ Can I adjust the spiciness of this chili?

Yes, you can modify the heat by adjusting the amount of chili powder or adding fresh chili peppers to suit your taste.

→ What sides pair well with Hawaiian-style chili?

Serve it with rice, cornbread, or a simple green salad to complement its flavors.

→ Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tomatoes can be used. Simply chop and cook them until they break down into a sauce-like consistency.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or hearty vegetables like zucchini and mushrooms for a vegetarian version.