Kalua pork –If you’re looking for a dish that’s packed with flavor and is surprisingly simple to prepare, look no further than Kalua Pork! This recipe is perfect for family gatherings, weekend feasts, or any occasion when you want to impress your guests with minimal effort.
Kalua Pork
Kalua Pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish that offers a delightful smoky flavor, tender texture, and is incredibly versatile. Whether you decide to use a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven, this recipe is sure to satisfy any craving. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps to create your own Kalua Pork at home!
Ingredients
- 4-5 pounds of pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1 banana leaf (optional, for wrapping)
- Warm tortillas or rice, for serving
- Hawaiian-style barbecue sauce (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the pork shoulder. Pat it dry with paper towels and season it generously with sea salt. If you like garlic, sprinkle garlic powder over the meat for added flavor.
- Place the pork shoulder in your slow cooker or Instant Pot. If you’re opting for an oven, place it in a large roasting pan. Drizzle the liquid smoke over the meat to give it that delicious smoky taste.
- If using a banana leaf, wrap the seasoned pork shoulder in the leaf to enhance the flavor and keep it moist as it cooks.
- For the slow cooker, cook on low for about 8-10 hours, or high for about 5-6 hours, until the meat is fork-tender. If using the Instant Pot, seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 60-70 minutes, followed by a natural release.
- If using the oven, preheat to 300°F (150°C) and roast the pork, covered, for about 6-8 hours. The goal is to achieve incredibly tender, shreddable meat.
- Once cooked, remove the pork from the cooking vessel and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, shred the meat using two forks, mixing in any juices from the pot to keep everything moist and flavorful.
- Serve your Kalua Pork warm with tortillas or over a bed of rice. You can also add some Hawaiian-style barbecue sauce on the side for a little extra kick!
This Kalua Pork recipe is a surefire way to bring a taste of Hawaii to your kitchen. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep, as it keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated. Enjoy every bite!