My Hawaiian neighbor showed us this delicious recipe! Hard to believe it's just 3 ingredients
Description
Kalua Pig is a cherished Hawaiian dish traditionally cooked in an imu, an underground oven that infuses the pork with a distinctive smoky flavor. While recreating an imu at home might not be practical, this slow cooker version allows you to achieve the same tender, smoky goodness with minimal effort. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just three ingredients transform into a flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth dish. Perfect for busy days, family gatherings, or potlucks, this Kalua Pig is as effortless as it is delicious.
Enjoy it as a main dish with steamed white rice and traditional lomi-lomi salmon, or use it in sandwiches, tacos, or salads for a modern twist. However you serve it, this dish brings a taste of Hawaii straight to your table with minimal prep and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 5 pounds boneless pork shoulder
- 1 tablespoon Alaea sea salt (Hawaiian Red Salt)
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
Preparation Method
1. Pierce the pork shoulder all over with a fork or knife.
2. Rub the pork generously with Alaea sea salt.
3. Place the pork in the slow cooker and drizzle with liquid smoke.
4. Cover and set the slow cooker to low for 16 hours.
5. Shred the tender pork in the slow cooker using two forks, discarding excess fat if desired.
6. For a crispy texture, broil the shredded pork on a baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.
Tips and Conclusion
For an authentic Hawaiian plate lunch experience, serve Kalua Pig with steamed white rice and macaroni salad. If you're looking for a fusion-style twist, try stuffing it into tacos, sliders, or even omelets. Leftovers can be refrigerated and used for meal prep, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
With just three ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a rich and flavorful Hawaiian classic right at home. Whether you enjoy it as a standalone dish or use it as the base for various meals, this Kalua Pig is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Try it today and explore more island-inspired dishes for your next culinary adventure!
