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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

  1. Rinse the pork shoulder and pat dry.
  2. Use a sharp knife to make small cuts into the meat, about 1–2 inches deep.
  3. Rub Hawaiian salt evenly all over the pork, making sure it gets into the cuts.
  4. Pour the liquid smoke over the pork, rubbing it into the meat for a smoky flavor.

2. Wrap the Pork (Optional but Authentic)

  1. If using banana leaves, rinse them under warm water and pat dry.
  2. Wrap the pork tightly with the banana leaves, then use kitchen twine or foil to secure it in place.
  3. 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:

  1. Place the wrapped pork into your slow cooker. Add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom to keep it moist.
  2. Cook on low for 8–10 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.

Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the wrapped pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven. Add 1/2 cup of water to the bottom of the pan.
  3. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and bake for 5–6 hours, basting occasionally if needed.

4. Shred the Pork

  1. Once the pork is done, remove it from the slow cooker or oven. Let it rest for 15 minutes.
  2. 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!) 🌺

  • Author: CurtisJ
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8-10 hours
  • Category: Hawaiian
  • Cuisine: Hawaiian

Find it online: https://curtisjcooks.com/1480-2/