Instant Pot Zippy’s Chili : A Hawaiian Classic Made Easy

If you’ve ever visited Hawaii, chances are you’ve heard of the legendary Zippy’s Chili. It’s rich, hearty, and unlike any chili you’ve had on the mainland. Today, we’re bringing that island favorite right into your kitchen with this flavorful and easy Instant Pot Zippy’s Chili recipe. With tender ground meat, a savory-sweet sauce, and a quick pressure-cooking method, you’ll have a satisfying bowl of Hawaiian-style chili in no time.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or as a freezer-friendly meal prep option, this Hawaiian chili recipe delivers comfort and nostalgia in every bite. Plus, the Instant Pot makes it fast, fuss-free, and full of flavor.

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What Is Hawaiian Chili and Why Is It So Unique?

Unlike your standard chili, Hawaiian chili often includes slightly sweeter notes, hints of soy sauce, and a smoother texture. It’s not as fiery as Texas-style chili, but it makes up for it with a depth of umami flavor and comforting warmth. Ingredients like Hawaiian chili water or shoyu (soy sauce) give it a distinctly local flair.

This unique blend of sweet, salty, and savory flavors is what sets Hawaiian-style chili apart—and makes it the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Zippy’s Chili: Hawaii’s Favorite Comfort Food

Zippy’s is an iconic restaurant chain in Hawaii, best known for their plate lunches and of course, their signature chili. The Zippy’s Chili Recipe Hawaii style has gained cult-like popularity thanks to its perfect balance of ground meat, beans, and a slightly sweet tomato-based sauce. It’s the go-to dish for everything from football parties to late-night comfort food.

Now, with this Instant Pot version of Zippy’s Chili, you can bring the aloha spirit to your own table in under an hour.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Zippy’s Chili

Here’s what you’ll need to make this mouthwatering Hawaiian chili:

• 1 lb ground beef (or half pork/half beef)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can kidney beans (15 oz), drained
• 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
• 2 tablespoons shoyu (soy sauce)
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1/2 cup water or Hawaiian chili water for added flavor
• Salt and pepper to taste

This recipe is very adaptable. You can use ground turkey or chicken, or try adding sweet potato chunks for a twist similar to this turkey sweet potato chili recipe.

How to Make Zippy’s Chili in the Instant Pot

Making Hawaiian-style chili in the Instant Pot couldn’t be easier. Here’s how to do it:

1. Sauté aromatics: Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” and cook the onion and garlic in a bit of oil until fragrant.
2. Brown the meat: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Add seasonings: Stir in soy sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and salt and pepper.
4. Add beans and tomato sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, beans, and chili water. Stir to combine.
5. Pressure cook: Seal the Instant Pot and set to “Manual” for 15 minutes.
6. Natural release: Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the rest.
7. Serve and enjoy: Stir, taste, adjust seasonings, and serve hot.

Pair it with cheddar bay biscuits like these cheddar cheese potato soup side pairings or spoon it over rice for an authentic Hawaiian meal.

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Flavor Secrets: Hawaiian Chili Water and Island Seasoning

What makes Hawaiian chili water special? It’s a local condiment made from red chili peppers, garlic, vinegar, and water. It brings a subtle heat and tangy zip that sets Hawaiian chili apart from the rest.

Can’t find Hawaiian chili water? A splash of vinegar and a pinch of red pepper flakes will mimic it nicely. Or, keep it mild and kid-friendly—Hawaiian chili doesn’t have to be spicy to be delicious.

Why This Is One of the Best Hawaiian Instant Pot Recipes

This dish is not just delicious—it’s also incredibly practical. Here’s why:

• Quick: Ready in under 45 minutes, with most of the work done by the Instant Pot.
• Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable proteins.
• Make-ahead: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for busy nights.
• Family-friendly: Mild heat with rich flavor that kids and adults love.

It pairs perfectly with other comfort favorites like these slow cooker candied cinnamon pecans for a sweet-savory balance.

Variations: Make It Spicy, Meaty, or Vegetarian

Want to change it up?

• Spicy version: Add jalapeños, chipotle powder, or more cayenne.
• Chorizo twist: Inspired by this chorizo pumpkin chili, swap ground beef for chorizo.
• Veggie chili: Omit the meat and add lentils or quinoa for a plant-based option like pumpkin quinoa chili.
• White chicken chili: Try something different like this creamy pumpkin chicken chili.

Zippy’s Chili vs. Mainland Chili

Mainland chili often leans heavily into spice and chunks of beef. Zippy’s-style chili is smoother, slightly sweeter, and made with finely ground meat. It’s often served over rice, mac salad, or even with a slice of cornbread.

If you love the combo of sweet and savory, you might also enjoy these sweet chili meatballs or even a chili cheese dog casserole for game day.

Storage, Reheating, and Freezer Tips

This chili stores beautifully:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
• Meal prep: Portion into single servings and pair with rice or noodles for an easy lunch.

Serve leftovers with cucumber-dill salad for a fresh contrast or roll into burritos with cheese and rice.

What Goes Well with Hawaiian Chili?

Hawaiian chili is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

• Over steamed white rice
• On a hot dog (Zippy’s style!)
• With toasted garlic-parmesan focaccia bread
• Alongside roasted butternut squash for a fall twist

If you’re a fan of chili dogs, definitely try this hot dog chili recipe for another quick dinner idea.

Other Hawaiian Favorites to Try in the Instant Pot

Ready to explore more Hawaiian Instant Pot recipes? You’ll love these:

• Shoyu chicken recipe Hawaii Instant Pot
• Kalua pork with cabbage
• Chicken long rice

You can pair them with fun desserts like apple pie dip or chocolate chip cheesecake bars.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 6-quart Instant Pot (or larger)
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Keep a ladle handy for serving, and consider meal prep containers if you’re making this for the week ahead.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t overcook the beef before pressure cooking. It’ll continue to cook under pressure.
• Avoid too much liquid. The Instant Pot needs less than a stovetop recipe.
• Don’t skip seasoning. The soy sauce, sugar, and chili powder create the iconic Zippy’s taste.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes, just simmer for 45–60 minutes after browning the meat and combining ingredients.

Can I use turkey or chicken?
Definitely. Ground turkey works great for a leaner version.

Where can I find chili water?
Check local Asian or Hawaiian grocery stores. Or make your own with red chili, garlic, vinegar, and water.

Final Thoughts: Bring Zippy’s to Your Kitchen

There’s a reason Zippy’s Chili is a staple in Hawaiian households. With this Instant Pot version, you can enjoy a taste of the islands no matter where you are. It’s hearty, flavorful, budget-friendly, and packed with comfort in every spoonful.

So grab your pressure cooker, gather a few pantry staples, and try this unforgettable Instant Pot Zippy’s Chili. Your family will thank you.

Love Hawaiian food? Explore more comforting recipes like creamy crockpot chicken gnocchi soup or sweet chili halloumi wraps to bring island flavors to your weekly meal plan.

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