3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of kalua pork wafting through the house on a lazy Sunday afternoon. It instantly transports me back to my childhood summers in Hawaii, sitting under the swaying palms as the unmistakable smoky-sweet scent of this iconic dish filled the air. My aunties would spend hours tending to the underground pit oven, patiently waiting as the pork transformed into tender, falling-apart morsels imbued with the flavors of the islands.
While most of us don’t have easy access to a traditional Hawaiian imu pit for cooking kalua pork, this 3-ingredient slow cooker version captures those same luscious, kalua flavors with hardly any effort. Just a few simple ingredients and your trusty Crock Pot are all you need to re-create this iconic Hawaiian delicacy in your own kitchen. Trust me, one bite of this succulent, smoky-sweet pork will have you dreaming of tropical beaches and swaying palm trees.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Kalua Pork
- Only 3 simple ingredients required (pork butt, salt, and liquid smoke)
- Hands-off slow cooker method – just set it and forget it!
- Recreates the authentic kalua flavors without an underground oven
- Fall-apart tender, ultra-moist pork every time
- Feeds a crowd and makes excellent leftovers
- Versatile enough for tacos, sandwiches, rice bowls, and more
Kalua Pork Ingredient List
- Pork Butt/Shoulder (4-5 lbs) – This well-marbled cut becomes meltingly tender when slow cooked
- Hawaiian Sea Salt or Coarse Kosher Salt – Provides the signature salted kalua flavor
- Liquid Smoke – Gives the pork that unmistakable smoky kalua essence
Kalua Pork FAQs
Can I use a different pork cut?
While pork butt/shoulder is traditional, you can also use pork loin or tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.Is liquid smoke necessary?
Yes! It’s what gives the pork that distinctive kalua smoke flavor. I don’t recommend omitting it.Can I cook it on high?
For best texture, cook on low for 8-10 hours. High heat will make the pork dry out.
Kalua Pork Tips and Tasty Variations
- For extra moisture, place the pork on top of sliced onions or cabbage in the slow cooker.
- Get creative with the rub! Add brown sugar, chili powder, or smoked paprika.
- For a crispy exterior, broil or air fry the shredded pork for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Make kalua pork nachos, tacos, sliders, or add to fried rice or ramen.
- Stir in some pineapple juice or teriyaki sauce for a Hawaiian-inspired twist.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
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