Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the beautiful islands of Hawaii with our Slow Cooker Luau with Kalua Pork! This mouthwatering dish is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings the flavors of the tropics right to your kitchen. Imagine tender, smoky pork that melts in your mouth, served alongside sweet, juicy pineapple. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can impress your family and friends with a feast that transports them to a Hawaiian paradise. Ready to dive into this delectable recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 12 hrs
Total Time: 12 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 lbs pork butt
- 2 tablespoons Hawaiian sea salt
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 pineapple, sliced (for serving)
Instructions
- Remove the pork butt from refrigerator and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure proper seasoning adherence.
- Generously rub Hawaiian sea salt all over the entire surface of the pork, ensuring even coverage.
- Place the seasoned pork butt into the slow cooker, positioning it fat side up for optimal moisture retention.
- Drizzle liquid smoke evenly over the pork, which will help create the traditional smoky flavor reminiscent of underground Hawaiian cooking.
- Pour water into the bottom of the slow cooker, being careful not to wash away the salt and liquid smoke from the meat.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat setting, allowing the pork to cook slowly for 12 hours until meat is extremely tender and easily shreds.
- After cooking time is complete, carefully remove the pork and transfer to a large cutting board.
- Using two forks, shred the meat, discarding any large fatty pieces.
- Optional: Skim excess fat from the cooking liquid and mix a small amount back into the shredded meat for added moisture.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with fresh pineapple slices for a traditional Hawaiian presentation.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for a well-marbled pork butt, as the fat will render down during cooking, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the Hawaiian sea salt; it’s essential for achieving that authentic Kalua flavor. Make sure to cover every inch of the pork for the best results.
- Liquid Smoke is Key: This ingredient is what gives the pork its signature smoky flavor. Be sure to drizzle it evenly over the meat to replicate the traditional underground cooking method.
- Low and Slow: Cooking the pork on a low heat for 12 hours is crucial for achieving that fall-apart tenderness. Resist the urge to check on it too often; let the slow cooker do its magic!
- Shred with Care: After cooking, let the pork rest for a few minutes before shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
- Serve with Fresh Ingredients: Garnish your Kalua pork with chopped green onions and serve with fresh pineapple slices for a refreshing contrast that enhances the dish's tropical vibe.
- Make it a Feast: Consider adding traditional Hawaiian sides like rice or coleslaw to create a complete luau experience for your guests.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 359kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 35g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 105mg
