Here’s a simple and traditional Kalua Pig (or Kalua Pork) recipe that brings the taste of a Hawaiian luau right into your home — no underground imu needed!
🌺 Slow-Cooked Kalua Pig (Hawaiian Pulled Pork)
Ingredients:
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4 to 6 pounds pork shoulder (also called pork butt)
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1–1½ tablespoons Hawaiian sea salt (or kosher salt)
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1 tablespoon liquid smoke (mesquite or hickory)
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Optional: banana leaves or ti leaves for wrapping (for extra authenticity)
Instructions (Slow Cooker or Oven):
1. Prep the Pork:
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Pat pork dry.
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Pierce it all over with a knife or fork to help flavors soak in.
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Rub the salt evenly over the entire surface.
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Drizzle with liquid smoke and rub it in.
2. Optional (If using leaves):
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Wrap the pork in banana or ti leaves for authentic flavor and moisture retention.
3. Cooking Options:
🔸 Slow Cooker (recommended):
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Place pork in the slow cooker.
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Cook on low for 10–12 hours or until it shreds easily with a fork.
🔸 Oven:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
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Place pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven, cover tightly with foil or lid.
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Roast for 5–6 hours, checking occasionally for tenderness.
4. Shred & Serve:
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Remove the pork from the pot, shred with forks, and mix back in with some of the juices.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
🌴 Serving Suggestions:
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Over steamed white rice
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With Hawaiian-style macaroni salad
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In slider buns with coleslaw
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Alongside poi, if you’re going full luau!
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