Homestyle kalua pork with cabbage in a slow cooker –Indulge in the rich flavors of Kalua Pork, a delicious dish that brings the taste of the islands right to your kitchen! Whether you choose to prepare it in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven, this recipe will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. Let’s dive into how to create this culinary masterpiece!
Kalua Pork
This Kalua Pork recipe is a perfect blend of tender, smoky meat that falls apart beautifully. It’s traditionally made using a whole pig cooked in an underground oven, but we’ve adapted it for home cooking with equally flavorful results.
Ingredients
- 4-5 pounds of pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 2 teaspoons liquid smoke
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Optional: banana leaves for wrapping
Instructions
- Start by preparing the pork shoulder. Trim excess fat if preferred, but leaving some will add richness to the dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the sea salt, liquid smoke, garlic powder, and onion powder to create a flavorful rub.
- Rub this mixture all over the pork, ensuring that it’s evenly coated.
- If using, wrap the pork in banana leaves. This isn’t essential but adds an authentic touch and extra moisture.
- For the slow cooker method: Place the pork in the slow cooker and cover. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the meat is fork-tender.
- If you’re using an Instant Pot: Add a cup of water to the pot, insert the trivet, and place the pork on top. Seal and cook on high pressure for 60-70 minutes, then let it naturally release.
- For oven cooking: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the wrapped pork in a roasting pan, cover tightly with foil, and bake for 5-6 hours, or until tender.
- Once cooked, shred the meat using two forks, mixing in any excess juices from the pot or pan for added flavor.
- Serve your Kalua Pork with steamed rice, Hawaiian coleslaw, or as a filling for tacos. Enjoy the incredible flavors!
With its savory and smoky taste, Kalua Pork is a dish that can be enjoyed by many. Prepare it for a family gathering or a cozy night in, and watch everyone come back for seconds!