Easy Traditional Hawaiian-Style Kalua Pork Recipe
Kalua pork is a Hawaiian classic, known for its smoky flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Traditionally, it’s cooked in an imu (underground oven) for hours, but you can recreate this iconic dish at home with simple ingredients and modern methods—no digging required!
- Total Time: 0 hours
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Ingredients
- 3–4 lbs pork shoulder (Boston butt)
- 1 1/2 tbsp Hawaiian sea salt (or kosher salt)
- 1 tbsp liquid smoke (mesquite or hickory flavor)
- 2–3 banana leaves (optional, for authentic flavor)
- 1/2 cup water (if using an oven or slow cooker)
Instructions
1. Prep the Pork
- Rinse the pork shoulder and pat dry.
- Use a sharp knife to make small cuts into the meat, about 1–2 inches deep.
- Rub Hawaiian salt evenly all over the pork, making sure it gets into the cuts.
- Pour the liquid smoke over the pork, rubbing it into the meat for a smoky flavor.
2. Wrap the Pork (Optional but Authentic)
- If using banana leaves, rinse them under warm water and pat dry.
- Wrap the pork tightly with the banana leaves, then use kitchen twine or foil to secure it in place.
- If banana leaves aren’t available, you can skip this step and wrap the pork directly in foil.
3. Choose Your Cooking Method
Slow Cooker Method:
- Place the wrapped pork into your slow cooker. Add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom to keep it moist.
- Cook on low for 8–10 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
Oven Method:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Place the wrapped pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven. Add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the pan.
- Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 5–6 hours, basting occasionally if needed.
4. Shred the Pork
- Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker or oven. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Carefully unwrap and shred the pork using two forks, discarding any excess fat.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Traditional Style: Serve with steamed white rice and Hawaiian-style mac salad for a plate lunch experience.
- Modern Twist: Use it as a filling for tacos, sliders, or even a savory pizza topping.
- Authentic Pairing: Add a side of lomi lomi salmon or poke for a true Hawaiian feast.
Tips for the Perfect Kalua Pork
- Liquid Smoke: Mesquite gives a more robust flavor, while hickory adds a milder, earthy taste.
- Banana Leaves: These are optional but add a subtle, earthy aroma reminiscent of the traditional imu method. Look for them in Asian or specialty markets.
- Leftovers: Kalua pork freezes beautifully! Store in an airtight container and enjoy later in stir-fries, sandwiches, or fried rice.
Transport yourself to the islands with this easy-to-make Kalua pork recipe. It’s smoky, tender, and full of the aloha spirit—perfect for any occasion. E ‘ai kaua! (Let’s eat!) 🌺
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 hours
- Category: Hawaiian
- Cuisine: Hawaiian
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