Imagine biting into tender, smoky, and juicy shredded pork, infused with Hawaiian flavors and melting in your mouth. That’s exactly what you get with Kalua Pig, a Hawaiian classic traditionally cooked in an underground oven (imu) for hours. But here’s the best part—you don’t need a pit or firewood to enjoy this incredible dish!
With just three simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can easily make authentic Kalua Pig at home. This foolproof, set-it-and-forget-it recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or special gatherings.
Get ready to take your taste buds on a Hawaiian vacation with this delicious, smoky, and effortless Kalua Pig recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Only 3 Ingredients – You don’t need a long shopping list!
✔ Super Easy & Hands-Free – The slow cooker does all the work.
✔ Incredibly Juicy & Flavorful – Smoky, salty, and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Makes a big batch that you can use all week!
✔ Authentic Hawaiian Flavor – A traditional dish made easy at home.
What is Kalua Pig?
In Hawaii, Kalua Pig (or Kalua Pork) is a beloved dish cooked in an imu (underground pit oven), using banana leaves, hot rocks, and hours of slow roasting. The result? Deeply smoky, fall-apart tender pork.
Luckily, you can achieve the same amazing taste at home using a slow cooker and just a few key ingredients!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Kalua Pig
🥩 5-6 lb pork shoulder (pork butt) – Well-marbled for maximum juiciness.
🧂 1 tablespoon Hawaiian sea salt (or coarse kosher salt) – Adds deep flavor.
🔥 1 tablespoon liquid smoke – Gives the authentic smoky flavor without a pit oven.
Optional Additions:
🌿 Banana leaves – If available, wrap the pork in banana leaves for a more traditional taste.
🌶 Garlic cloves (sliced) – Adds extra depth of flavor.
🥥 A splash of pineapple juice – For a touch of natural sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Pork
- Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
- Using a sharp knife, pierce small slits all over the meat.
- Rub the Hawaiian salt (or kosher salt) evenly over the entire pork.
- Pour the liquid smoke over the pork and rub it in well.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Kalua Pig
- Place the pork shoulder into the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 12-16 hours or until fork-tender. (Yes, the long cooking time is key to super juicy, melt-in-your-mouth meat!)
- No need to add water or broth—the pork will release its own juices as it cooks.
Step 3: Shred and Serve
- Once the pork is fall-apart tender, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker.
- Let the shredded pork soak up the flavorful juices before serving.
How to Serve Kalua Pig
🍚 Classic Plate Lunch – Serve with white rice and Hawaiian macaroni salad.
🌮 Kalua Pork Tacos – Stuff into corn tortillas with fresh pineapple salsa.
🥗 Lettuce Wraps – A low-carb option with crisp romaine leaves.
🥪 Hawaiian Sliders – Pile on sweet Hawaiian rolls with coleslaw.
🥘 Fried Rice – Mix into fried rice for a Hawaiian twist.
Tips for the Best Kalua Pig
✔ Use Pork Shoulder (Pork Butt) – This well-marbled cut stays juicy and shreds beautifully.
✔ Cook on LOW for Best Results – The longer, the better! 12-16 hours makes the pork super tender.
✔ Don’t Skip the Liquid Smoke – It’s the key to getting that traditional smoky flavor.
✔ Save the Juices – The flavorful cooking liquid keeps the pork moist and adds depth to other dishes.
✔ Make a Big Batch – Kalua Pig is perfect for meal prepping and freezing!
Variations & Substitutions
🔥 Spicy Kalua Pig – Add red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha.
🍍 Sweet & Savory – Stir in pineapple chunks for a tropical twist.
🍻 Beer-Braised Kalua Pork – Swap liquid smoke for ½ cup dark beer for a rich, deep flavor.
🥗 Healthier Version – Use lean pork loin, but note it won’t be as tender.
🥥 Coconut Kalua Pork – Add ½ cup coconut milk for a slightly sweet, rich flavor.
Why This is the Best Kalua Pig Recipe
✅ Only 3 Ingredients – Simple, authentic, and no fuss.
✅ Super Juicy & Tender – Slow cooking makes it fall-apart delicious.
✅ Tastes Like a Hawaiian Luau – That smoky-salty flavor is spot on.
✅ Endless Serving Options – Eat it with rice, in tacos, or even in salads!
If you want Hawaiian-style shredded pork that’s delicious, easy, and perfect for any meal, this Slow Cooker Kalua Pig is a must-try!
Conclusion
With just 3 ingredients and a slow cooker, you can recreate the flavors of a Hawaiian luau at home. This Kalua Pig recipe is effortless, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to meal prepping.
So grab your pork shoulder, salt, and liquid smoke, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Hawaii in every bite! 🌺🐷🍍
FAQs About Slow Cooker Kalua Pig
1. Can I make Kalua Pig in the Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 90 minutes, then natural release for 15 minutes.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use a different cut of pork?
Pork shoulder (pork butt) is best for tenderness, but you can use pork loin (leaner but less juicy).
4. What if I don’t have liquid smoke?
You can substitute with smoked paprika or a small amount of smoked sea salt.
5. Can I make this in the oven?
Yes! Wrap the pork in foil, place in a Dutch oven, and roast at 300°F for 6-7 hours.