There’s something magical about the scent of kalua pork filling the house on a relaxing Sunday. It takes me back to childhood summers in Hawaii, lounging under the palms with the sweet, smoky aroma of this dish in the air. I’d watch as my aunties tended to the traditional underground imu, slow-cooking the pork to perfection with tender, melt-in-your-mouth results infused with island flavors.
Though we don’t all have access to an imu, this 3-ingredient slow cooker version delivers the same delicious, smoky taste with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients and your trusty Crock Pot, you can bring this Hawaiian classic to life in your kitchen. One bite of this tender, smoky-sweet pork, and you’ll feel like you’re lounging on a tropical beach with palm trees swaying in the breeze.
Why You’ll Love This Kalua Pork Recipe:
- Simple Ingredients: Just 3 items (pork butt, salt, and liquid smoke)
- Easy Slow Cooker Method: Set it and forget it!
- Authentic Kalua Flavors: No underground pit needed
- Tender & Moist: Perfectly cooked, fall-apart pork every time
- Feeds a Crowd: Great for leftovers and feeding a group
- Versatile: Perfect for tacos, sandwiches, rice bowls, and more!
Ingredients:
- Pork Butt/Shoulder (4-5 lbs): This cut of meat has the perfect marbling to make it melt-in-your-mouth tender when slow-cooked
- Hawaiian Sea Salt or Coarse Kosher Salt: Gives the pork the signature kalua flavor
- Liquid Smoke: The secret ingredient that imparts that signature smoky flavor
Kalua Pork FAQs
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Can I use a different pork cut? While pork butt or shoulder is traditional, you can use pork loin or tenderloin. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and adjust accordingly.
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Is liquid smoke necessary? Yes! It’s essential for achieving that distinctive kalua flavor. Don’t skip it.
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Can I cook it on high? For the best texture, cook on low for 8-10 hours. Cooking on high may cause the pork to dry out.
Tips and Tasty Variations:
- For Extra Moisture: Layer the pork on top of sliced onions or cabbage in the slow cooker.
- Spice it Up: Add a rub of brown sugar, chili powder, or smoked paprika for added depth.
- Crispy Texture: After shredding, broil or air fry the pork for 5-10 minutes to create a crispy crust.
- Versatile Uses: Use in nachos, tacos, sliders, fried rice, or ramen.
- Hawaiian Twist: Stir in pineapple juice or teriyaki sauce for an extra tropical flavor.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers:
This kalua pork keeps well! After cooling, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-5 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months.
To reheat, place the pork in a baking dish with a splash of broth or pineapple juice. Cover with foil and bake at 300°F for 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Serving Suggestions to Bring the Islands to You:
- Serve with sticky white rice, mac salad, and fresh pineapple
- Make sliders or tacos with cabbage slaw and teriyaki aioli
- Wrap in tortillas with rice, beans, cheese, and salsa for burritos
- Top crispy tostada shells with pork, pico de gallo, and guacamole
- Add to a breakfast hash with eggs, potatoes, and hollandaise sauce
However you serve it, this slow cooker kalua pork will transport you straight to the islands. The irresistible aroma alone will have you dreaming of Hawaii. Enjoy a taste of paradise with this simple, tender, and flavorful dish. Mahalo!
