Kalua Turkey
Tender, smoky Kalua Turkey with Hawaiian salt and aromatic leaves, perfect for celebrations or family gatherings, offering a rich, savory flavor with a Hawaiian touch.
Ingredients
- 12 lb. turkey
- 12 ti leaves, deveined ⓘ
- 2 pieces banana leaf
- 3 to 4 Tbsp. Hawaiian salt
Instructions
- Rinse, drain, and dry the turkey.
- Line a large roasting pan with heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- Arrange 12 deveined ti leaves, radiating from the center of the pan.
- Place a banana leaf on top of the ti leaves.
- Put the turkey on top of the banana leaf and ti leaves.
- Rub the turkey generously with Hawaiian salt and liquid smoke on the inside and outside.
- Fold the ti leaves and banana leaf around the turkey to enclose it.
- Seal the package well with foil.
- Roast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 4 hours.
- Lower the temperature to 325°F (160°C) and roast for an additional 1 to 2 hours.
- Remove from oven, shred the turkey, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding liquid smoke to the rub for the turkey or marinating it overnight. If ti leaves are unavailable, banana leaves can be used alone, though the flavor will be slightly different. Ensure the turkey is completely covered to retain moisture. If you want a twist, try the flavors from Polish Sausage, Potatoes And Cabbage for a hearty side.
Serving Suggestions
Shredded Kalua turkey is fantastic served with rice or in tacos. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a festive touch, consider serving alongside a dish like Roast Venison for an exciting flavor combination. Drizzle with your favorite sauce or salsa to enhance the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Kalua turkey can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the shredded turkey in freezer bags for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kalua Turkey contains roughly 244 calories, with 27g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. At about 244 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 smaller turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a smaller turkey, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. A smaller bird will likely need less roasting time, so start checking for doneness around 3 hours. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What can I substitute for ti leaves?
If ti leaves are not available, you can use extra banana leaves or even parchment paper to wrap the turkey. The flavor will differ slightly, but it will still retain moisture. Just ensure to keep the turkey well wrapped.
Is there a way to make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turkey and wrap it in the leaves the day before, then refrigerate it overnight. On the day of serving, simply take it out and roast it as instructed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).