Hawaiian-Style Chili with Rice (Kid-Friendly, No Beans)
This Hawaiian-style chili with rice is a comforting, kid-approved meal inspired by Zippy’s Chili from Hawaii - the dish my kids couldn’t stop talking about after our trip. While it’s not a classic Japanese dish, it’s become a regular on our family table thanks to its mild flavor, no beans, and simple ingredients.
Unlike Texas-style chili, Hawaiian chili is smoother, slightly sweet, and often served over rice instead of with cornbread. My version keeps the spices gentle, skips the heat, and adds Portuguese sausage for that signature island flavor - perfect for families and kids!
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Chili
Mild and kid-friendly (no spicy heat)
No beans, just hearty meat sauce
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Comfort food served over rice
Why I cooked Vegetables First
Vegetables soften nicely and release their natural sweetness
Garlic/onion aroma forms a gentle flavor base (great for kid-friendly dishes)
Less aggressive browning meat with the moisture from the veggies = smoother, milder chili
Works best for saucy and smooth chili
Tips & Variations
Extra mild: This recipe is already gentle, but you can reduce chili powder to 1/2 tsp for making it extra mild
Meal prep: The chili tastes even better the next day and reheats beautifully.
Freezer-friendly: Freeze the chili (without rice) for up to 2 months.
Beans lovers: Please feel free to add the cooked kidney beans after adding the meat!
Mayonnaise addition: My friend in Hawaii stirs in a few table spoons of mayonnaise for the creamier soup
RECIPE
Servings: 7-8
Time: 40 min
Ingredients:
1/2 onion
3 ribs celery
1 bell pepper
2 cloves garlic
1 lb ground beef
4 oz Portuguese sausage
Seasoning:
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika powder
1 tsp cumin powder
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (I used Okonomi sauce)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 packet vegetable stock powder
2 bay leaves
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup water
salt
For serving:
cooked rice
shredded cheese (I like mexican blend)
chopped scallions
Instructions:
Prepare the Vegetables
Finely chop the onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic.
Slice the Portuguese sausage into small pieces - peeling off the casing first if you prefer a smoother texture.
Smaller cuts help the chili stay cohesive and kid-friendly.
Sauté the Vegetables
Heat a bit of cooking oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the garlic, onion, celery, and bell pepper along with a pinch of salt.
Stir-fry until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
Cook the Meat
Add the ground beef and chopped Portuguese sausage to the pan.
Break up the beef with a spatula and cook until it’s about halfway done.
The meat will continue cooking as the chili simmers, keeping it tender and juicy.
Season and Simmer
Add the chili powder, oregano, paprika, cumin, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, vegetable stock powder.
Pour in the water and tomato sauce.
Add the bay leaves.
Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a rich, comforting flavor without any spiciness.
Serve Hawaiian-Style
Remove the bay leaves.
Spoon the chili generously over warm cooked rice.
If you like, top with shredded cheese and chopped scallions.
FAQ
What is Hawaiian-style chili?
Hawaiian-style chili is a comforting, savory chili often served over rice. Inspired by local favorites like Zippy’s Chili in Hawaii, it typically has a smooth, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce and a milder flavor than traditional Texas-style chili.
Is Hawaiian chili spicy?
This Hawaiian-style chili is mild and kid-friendly, with no intense heat. For an even milder version, reduce the chili powder to 1/2 teaspoon.
Does Hawaiian chili have beans?
This recipe is made without beans, featuring ground beef, Portuguese sausage, and finely chopped vegetables. If you prefer beans, you can stir in cooked kidney beans while the chili simmers.
What kind of sausage is used in Hawaiian chili?
Portuguese sausage adds a savory, smoky flavor that gives this chili its signature island-inspired twist. Slice it into small pieces for a more uniform, kid-friendly texture.
Why is Hawaiian chili served over rice?
Serving chili over steamed rice is a popular way to enjoy it in Hawaii. The rice soaks up the rich tomato sauce and makes the dish a satisfying, comforting meal.
Can I make Hawaiian chili ahead of time?
Yes! Hawaiian chili is great for meal prep and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Can I freeze Hawaiian-style chili?
Yes. Let the chili cool, then transfer it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. Freeze it without the rice for up to 2 months for the best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.
What toppings go well with Hawaiian chili and rice?
Shredded cheese and chopped scallions are delicious toppings for this recipe. You can also try a few tablespoons of mayonnaise stirred into the chili for a creamier texture, inspired by a variation shared by a friend in Hawaii.
How long does it take to make Hawaiian chili?
This recipe takes about 40 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. The vegetables are sautéed first, then the meat, seasonings, and tomato sauce simmer together to create a rich, flavorful chili.
What can I serve with Hawaiian-style chili?
Hawaiian chili is delicious served over steamed white rice as a complete meal. For a family-style spread, you can also serve it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or extra shredded cheese on the side.
