📝 About This Recipe
Originating from the Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture of the 19th century, Pipikaula is a beloved local delicacy that bridges the gap between traditional jerky and a juicy steak. Unlike commercial jerky, this version is marinated in a savory blend of soy, ginger, and Hawaiian sea salt, then dried and pan-fried to achieve a unique 'crispy on the outside, tender on the inside' texture. It is a quintessential pupu (appetizer) that captures the soulful, smoky, and sweet flavors of the islands.
🥗 Ingredients
The Beef
- 2.5 pounds Flank Steak or Top Round (sliced with the grain into 1/2-inch thick strips)
The Island Marinade
- 1 cup Shoyu (Japanese Soy Sauce) (Aloha brand preferred for authenticity)
- 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Ginger (grated or finely minced)
- 4 cloves Fresh Garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon Alaea Sea Salt (Hawaiian Red Salt) (adds authentic earthy flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (coarsely ground)
- 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (toasted)
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Liquid Smoke (hickory or kiawe flavor)
For Finishing
- 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (for pan-frying)
- 2 pieces Green Onions (thinly sliced for garnish)
- 1 dash Hawaiian Chili Pepper Water (optional for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Prepare the beef by trimming away any excess surface fat. Slice the steak into long strips about 1/2-inch thick and 1.5 inches wide, ensuring you cut with the grain for that signature chewy texture.
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2
In a large glass mixing bowl or a heavy-duty gallon-sized resealable bag, whisk together the shoyu, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, Alaea salt, black pepper, sesame oil, chili flakes, Worcestershire, and liquid smoke until the sugar is dissolved.
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3
Place the beef strips into the marinade, ensuring every piece is thoroughly coated. Massage the meat through the bag or toss well in the bowl.
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4
Refrigerate and marinate for at least 12 hours, though 24 hours is recommended for the deepest flavor penetration.
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5
Preheat your oven to its lowest possible setting, typically 150°F to 170°F (65°C to 75°C). If you have a food dehydrator, set it to 160°F.
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6
Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire cooling rack on top. This allows air to circulate around the meat.
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7
Remove the beef from the marinade and pat dry lightly with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Arrange the strips in a single layer on the wire rack, ensuring they do not touch.
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8
Place the tray in the oven. Prop the oven door open slightly with a wooden spoon to allow moisture to escape.
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9
Dry the beef for 4 to 6 hours. The Pipikaula is ready when it is firm and dark on the outside but still has a slight 'give' or flexibility when pressed—it should not be brittle like commercial jerky.
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10
Once dried, remove from the oven and let it cool. At this stage, it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
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11
To serve authentically, heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
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12
Flash-fry the dried beef strips for 1-2 minutes per side until the edges are crispy and caramelized. This step re-renders the remaining fat and intensifies the flavor.
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13
Slice the warm strips into bite-sized pieces and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of extra Alaea salt.
💡 Chef's Tips
For easier slicing, place the beef in the freezer for 30-45 minutes until firm but not frozen. Do not skip the pan-frying step; the heat transforms the texture from simple dried meat to a gourmet delicacy. If you can't find Alaea salt, use coarse Kosher salt, but the red salt provides a unique mineral finish. Ensure you use 'With the Grain' cuts for a traditional chew, or 'Against the Grain' if you prefer a more tender, easier bite.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve as part of a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch with poi and lomi salmon. Pair with a cold Hawaiian lager or a crisp Maui-style pale ale. Enjoy alongside a scoop of white rice and mac salad for the ultimate comfort meal. Dip in Hawaiian chili pepper water for an extra spicy kick.