Maui Mingle

Maui Mingle Recipe - A Delicious Beef and Pineapple Dish from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Maui Mingle is a delicious and flavorful beef dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple and prunes with the savory flavors of beef and vegetables. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.

History

Maui Mingle is a popular dish that originated in Hawaii, where the combination of sweet and savory flavors is a common theme in many traditional dishes. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) lean beef chuck, cut into 1 inch cubes
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, sliced
1 tbsp seasoned salt
1 tsp dry mustard
2 tsp ginger
1 cup dry red wine
2 cup beef broth
1 20 oz (567 g) can pineapple chunks, cut in half (drain; reserve juice)
18 pitted dried prunes
2 cup sliced celery
1 to 2 green peppers, cut into 0.75 inch pieces
1 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp cornstarch
0.75 cup water
3 cup hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Brown the meat in oil on all sides. Then, add the onion, salt, mustard, ginger, wine, broth, and pineapple juice. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
Next, add the pineapple and prunes. Cook for an additional 10 minutes. Stir in the celery, green peppers, soy sauce, and cornstarch dissolved in water. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 6 to 7 minutes.
Finally, serve the dish over beds of fluffy rice.

Variations

Substitute chicken or pork for the beef for a different flavor profile.
Add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to brown the meat well before adding the other ingredients to enhance the flavor of the dish.

- Simmer the meat slowly to ensure it becomes tender and juicy.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Maui Mingle over hot cooked rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the meat before simmering helps to develop a rich flavor.

- Dissolving the cornstarch in water before adding it to the dish prevents lumps from forming.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use chicken broth instead of beef broth for a lighter flavor.

- Substitute fresh pineapple for canned pineapple for a fresher taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Maui Mingle can be prepared ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Maui Mingle in a large serving bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Maui Mingle with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. Serve with a glass of red wine or a tropical fruit juice for a refreshing beverage.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 25g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Iron, and Calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains soy and cornstarch.

Summary

Maui Mingle is a well-balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Maui Mingle is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of beef, pineapple, and prunes in a savory sauce. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. Enjoy this flavorful dish with a side of rice and steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished. It was during a trip to Hawaii with my husband, many years ago. We were staying in a beautiful beachfront cottage in Maui, surrounded by swaying palm trees and the gentle sound of the ocean waves crashing against the shore.

One evening, we were invited to a luau hosted by some locals we had befriended during our stay. The atmosphere was lively, with traditional Hawaiian music playing in the background and the scent of roasting pig filling the air. As the sun began to set, we were served a delicious cocktail that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

The drink was a vibrant mix of tropical fruits, rum, and a splash of coconut cream. It was sweet and refreshing, with just the right amount of kick from the alcohol. I immediately knew that I had to learn how to make it for myself.

I approached our host, a kind elderly woman named Aunty Leilani, and asked her for the recipe. She smiled warmly and invited me into her kitchen, where she showed me how to mix the ingredients together in a large pitcher. She explained that the key to a perfect Maui Mingle was using fresh, ripe fruits and a good quality rum.

As I watched her expertly blend the ingredients together, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the chance to learn from someone who had been making this cocktail for decades. Aunty Leilani shared stories of her childhood in Hawaii, of family gatherings and celebrations where the Maui Mingle was always present.

After she finished making the cocktail, she poured me a glass and handed it to me with a wink. "Now you can make this for your loved ones back home," she said, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

I thanked her profusely and promised to carry on the tradition of the Maui Mingle in my own kitchen. As we left the luau that night, with the taste of tropical fruits and rum still lingering on my tongue, I knew that this recipe would always hold a special place in my heart.

Back home, I wasted no time in recreating the Maui Mingle for my family and friends. I made sure to follow Aunty Leilani's instructions to the letter, using only the freshest ingredients and top-shelf rum. The cocktail was a hit, with everyone clamoring for refills and begging me for the recipe.

Over the years, I have continued to make the Maui Mingle for various gatherings and special occasions. Each time I mix the ingredients together and take that first sip, I am transported back to that magical evening in Maui, surrounded by the warmth and hospitality of the Hawaiian people.

The recipe for the Maui Mingle has become a treasured part of my culinary repertoire, a symbol of the friendships and memories I have made over the years. I am grateful to Aunty Leilani for sharing her knowledge and passion for cooking with me, and for allowing me to bring a taste of Hawaii into my own home.

As I sit here, sipping on a freshly made Maui Mingle and reminiscing about that fateful trip to Maui, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences and people that have enriched my life. This recipe may have started as a simple drink, but it has grown into so much more - a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I will always be grateful.