Kalua Pig(Hawaiian-Style Luau Pork)
Kalua Pig is a tender, smoky Hawaiian-style luau pork that is perfect for gatherings and special occasions. The slow-cooked, shredded meat is infused with salt and liquid smoke, offering rich flavors and a moist texture that pairs wonderfully with rice, cabbage, or traditional Hawaiian sides.
Ingredients
- 6 lb. pork roast
- 1 1/2 Tbsp. coarse salt or Hawaiian sea salt
- 1 Tbsp. liquid smoke flavoring ⓘ
Instructions
- Pierce the pork all over with a carving fork.
- Rub the coarse salt and liquid smoke evenly over the meat.
- Place the seasoned pork in a crock-pot slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 16 to 20 hours, turning once during cooking.
- Remove the meat from the slow cooker.
- Shred the pork and add drippings as needed to moisten.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the pork overnight in the salt and liquid smoke before cooking. If you can't find Hawaiian sea salt, regular coarse salt works well too. Adjust the amount of liquid smoke based on your taste preference; it can be quite potent. For a twist, try serving the Kalua pig with a side of Deluxe German Potato Salad for a delightful contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Kalua pig in a traditional Hawaiian style with steamed rice and a side of coleslaw for crunch. It also pairs wonderfully with Erika'S Appetizer for a flavorful meal. You can use it as a filling for tacos or sandwiches, or even enjoy it on its own with a drizzle of extra drippings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Kalua pig in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the shredded pork in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of the cooking drippings to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kalua Pig(Hawaiian-Style Luau Pork) contains roughly 2 calories, with 0g protein and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, while a pork roast is ideal, you can use pork shoulder or butt for a more marbled and flavorful option. These cuts tend to be more forgiving during long cooking times and will still yield tender, juicy meat.
How can I tell when the Kalua pig is done cooking?
The pork is done when it easily shreds with a fork. After 16 hours, check the meat; it should be tender and fall apart with minimal effort. If it’s not quite there, continue cooking and check every hour until it reaches the desired texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe faster?
To speed up the cooking process, you can use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker. Cook the seasoned pork for about 60-90 minutes under high pressure, allowing for natural release. This method will give you tender pork without the long wait.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).