Kalua Pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish that’s tender, smoky, and full of rich, savory flavor — typically made by slow-cooking a whole pig in an underground oven called an imu. But don’t worry — you can easily make a delicious version at home using a slow cooker, oven, or Instant Pot.
🐖 Kalua Pork (Hawaiian-Style Pulled Pork)
Serves: 8–10 | Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 8–10 hours (slow cooker)
🛒 Ingredients:
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4–6 lb pork shoulder (Boston butt)
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1 tbsp Hawaiian sea salt (or kosher salt)
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1 tbsp liquid smoke (mesquite or hickory)
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Optional: 3–4 banana leaves (for extra aroma and authenticity)
👩🍳 Instructions:
🐢 Slow Cooker Method:
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Prep the Pork:
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Pat pork dry with paper towels.
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Rub all over with Hawaiian sea salt.
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Drizzle with liquid smoke and rub it in.
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Optional (Banana Leaves):
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Line your slow cooker with banana leaves, then wrap the pork in them if using.
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Cook Low & Slow:
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Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours, until the pork is fall-apart tender.
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Shred & Serve:
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Remove pork, shred with two forks, and return to the juices in the slow cooker for extra flavor.
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Skim off any excess fat if needed.
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🔥 Alternate Cooking Methods:
🧑🍳 Oven Method:
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Wrap seasoned pork tightly in foil (or banana leaves, then foil).
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Bake at 325°F (165°C) for 4–5 hours, until fork-tender.
⚡ Instant Pot Method:
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Cut pork into large chunks. Season as above.
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Pressure cook on High for 90 minutes, with 1 cup water or broth.
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Natural release, then shred.
🌴 Serving Ideas:
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Serve with steamed white rice and Hawaiian-style macaroni salad
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Use in tacos, sliders, rice bowls, or even nachos
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Add sautéed cabbage to make kalua pork and cabbage, a Hawaiian staple
🔄 Tips:
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Don’t overdo the liquid smoke — a little goes a long way!
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Great for meal prep — freezes and reheats well.
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Pair with pineapple salsa or sweet rolls for a sweet-savory balance.
Would you like a low-sodium, Whole30, or pineapple-glazed variation? I’ve got those, too!
