Houston's Copycat Hawaiian Ribeye Recipe - Krystel's Cooking (2024)

KrystelFebruary 27, 2024

DifficultyEasy

Total time1 hour40 minutes

Servings2

Introduction: The Allure of Houston’s Hawaiian Ribeye

I had never imagined a steak could make my mouth water until I tried Houston’s Hawaiian Ribeye. This dish is a symphony of flavors, a unique blend that I often dreamed of recreating in my own kitchen. Houston’s Restaurant nailed it by combining the sweet tang of pineapple juice and brown sugar with the savory depth of soy sauce and garlic, creating a marinade that’s both intoxicating and unforgettable. It struck me—the fusion of these ingredients is not just about taste; it’s a culinary journey, transporting you straight to a tropical paradise with every bite. The addition of fresh ginger and apple cider vinegar adds a zesty punch, elevating the steak to levels of flavor that I had assumed were reserved only for professional kitchens.

Key Takeaways:

• Signature Dish:Houston’s Hawaiian Ribeye stands out with its unique sweet and savory marinade.
• Flavor Fusion:The combination of pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and fresh ginger creates a tantalizing taste experience.
• Home Recreation:With simple steps, this flavorful dish can be mastered in your own kitchen, bringing a taste of Houston’s Restaurant home.

Ingredients for the Perfect Hawaiian Ribeye

Gathering the perfect ensemble of ingredients will set the stage for a memorable Hawaiian Ribeye. At the heart of our creation lies1inch thick rib-eye steaks, pivotal for their rich marbling and succulence. These steaks will carry the melody of flavors we’re about to compose. To create the harmonious marinade that Houston’s restaurant is famed for, I meld together1 cup low sodium soy sauceand6 ounces pineapple juice. These liquids form the base with their umami and sweetness. Then, I whisk in1 teaspoon minced garlic,¼ cup brown sugar,⅓ cup apple cider vinegar, and2 teaspoons fresh ginger, minced. This symphony of ingredients promises a marinade that’s both deeply savory and delightfully tangy, capable of transporting your taste buds straight to paradise.

Marinating: The Secret Behind the Flavor

A secret to mouthwatering flavors lies in the marinade. I discovered a mixture of soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and apple cider vinegar turns a simple rib-eye steak into a taste sensation. The brown sugar caramelizes on heat, while pineapple juice tenderizes the meat, creating juiciness in every bite. The optimum soaking time transformed my steak. Leaving it in the cool, thick marinade overnight ensured it absorbed every hint of sweetness and savory depth. I take my steaks out of the refrigerator while still covered and let them come to room temperature. This crucial step promises a steak that, once cooked, will transport your taste buds to Houston’s restaurant, right from your own kitchen.

Grilling to Perfection

I always ensure my pan or grill pan hits that essential level of medium-high heat before the steaks make their appearance. This initial blast of heat sears the steak beautifully, locking in those juicy flavors we’re all after. Now, let’s talk about the art of grilling. Whether you’re team charcoal or a gas grill aficionado, mastering the two-zone fire, with medium-high coals on one side and medium-low coals on the other, guarantees you’ve got both the power and the gentler warmth to guide these steaks to perfection.

Moving steaks between these zones allows for an exquisite crust without sacrificing the tender medium-rare center we dream about. And here’s where the trusty instant-read thermometer becomes your best friend. By probing the thickest part of the steaks, I ensure my Hawaiian ribeye reaches that ideal 135°F for medium-rare allure or 140°F if medium is more your style. Remember, keeping an eye on the prize with these simple tricks turns that special occasion dish into a recurring masterpiece in your own backyard.

Now this for me it is February in California so it is a little too cold to grill outside so I opted for the indoor stovetop method. I heat a large cast iron skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat and lightly coat it with olive oil. Place the steak in the hot skillet and cook for 1 minute on one side, then flip and continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes, or until desired doneness is reached for medium-rare.

Serving Your Hawaiian Ribeye Masterpiece

I’ve just grilled the perfect Hawaiian Ribeye, following that fascinating journey from marinating to achieving perfect results on the grill. Now, it’s time to transition this flavorful dish from grill to plate. First, a crucial step we mustn’t overlook is letting our steak rest. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is as juicy and flavorful as it can be. Aim for a few minutes, no rush. The magic happens during the wait.

For slicing, choose a sharp knife and slice against the grain into thick rounds. This method ensures tenderness in every bite.Now, for the grand finale:the garnish. A dash of sesame oil can elevate the steak’s rich flavors, adding an authentic touch that tantalizes taste buds. Don’t shy away from adding pineapple chunks on the side; they embody the essence of this Hawaiian Ribeye steak dinner. Accompany this masterpiece with your choice of sides, but keep in mind, simplicity lets the steak shine. My personal suggestion? A fresh, vibrant street corn salad or even just slices buttered and grilled to perfection.

Taste the Paradise in Every Bite

I urge you, next time you’re eyeing a special occasion, or simply yearn to relive the magic of Houston’s restaurant from your own backyard, embark on this culinary journey. The mere thought of recreating Houston’s Hawaiian Ribeye recipe can fill us with a sense of accomplishment. It’s an adventure that brings the exquisite balance of savory flavors and sweet notes right into our homes. You might ponder the blend of brown sugar and pineapple juice, or how the apple cider vinegar version might add a unique twist.

Imagine the senses awakening as you whisk pineapple juice into the marinade, the aroma mingling with garlic cloves and fresh ginger. A couple of minutes on medium-high heat or over medium-high coals, and the steak reaches the perfect level of doneness, confirmed by your trusty instant-read thermometer. Whether you choose a gas grill or a grill pan, the outcome promises to be a succulent masterpiece, making your mouth water.

And then, the true magic unfolds when you slice the rib-eye steak, thick rounds of juicy steak on your plate, ready to dazzle your taste buds. Sharing this flavorful dish seals the experience, allowing you to bask in the joy and admiration of your loved ones. Don’t shy away from experimenting with your own twists; maybe a dash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of black pepper, each try promising to heighten the flavors further. Houston’s Hawaiian Ribeye at home isn’t just about the taste; it’s an ode to creativity, love, and the simple joys of cooking.

If you’re a fan of steaks check out my Steak Diane recipe!