Description

Kalua Pig is a traditional Hawaiian dish known for its smoky and savory flavor. It’s typically made by slow-cooking a pig in an underground oven, but this easy, 3-ingredient slow cooker version brings the same amazing flavors right to your kitchen without the need for a pit roast. Tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, Kalua Pig is perfect for a family dinner, BBQ, or a special occasion. The best part? You only need three simple ingredients, making it an incredibly easy recipe to prepare.

This version of Kalua Pig is cooked low and slow, allowing the pork to become melt-in-your-mouth tender. The key to its authentic taste is the use of liquid smoke, which mimics the traditional Hawaiian cooking technique, while the salt and pork infuse a savory flavor. Whether you're hosting a summer cookout or just craving a hearty meal, this Kalua Pig is sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 3 to 4 pounds of pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
• 2 tablespoons of Hawaiian sea salt (or regular coarse salt as a substitute)
• 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke

Preparation Method

Start by preparing the pork shoulder, trimming off any excess fat. This will help avoid too much grease in the final dish. Once trimmed, place the pork into your slow cooker. Pat the meat with paper towels to ensure it’s dry before seasoning.

Now, sprinkle the Hawaiian sea salt evenly over the entire surface of the pork. The salt is crucial for that authentic flavor and will also help draw out moisture, making the pork incredibly tender as it cooks. Pour the liquid smoke over the top of the pork, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Liquid smoke is what gives this dish that deep, smoky flavor similar to the traditional method of cooking pork underground.

Once everything is seasoned, cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set the temperature to low and let the magic happen. Depending on the size of your pork shoulder, it should cook for about 8 to 10 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more tender and flavorful the pork will become.

After the cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork from the slow cooker. Be cautious, as it will likely fall apart at the slightest touch. Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. The meat should be so tender that it falls apart easily. Stir the shredded pork into the remaining juices in the slow cooker to keep it moist and flavorful.

At this point, you have your Kalua Pig ready to serve. You can enjoy it as is, or serve it over rice, in tacos, or as a filling for sandwiches. This dish pairs perfectly with traditional Hawaiian sides like mac salad or coleslaw.

Tips and Conclusion

If you're looking to add a little extra flavor, you can mix in some of the slow-cooker juices into the shredded pork, adding more depth to the flavor. For a different twist, try adding a small amount of pineapple juice or teriyaki sauce to the cooking liquid to bring a touch of sweetness to balance the smokiness.
This 3-ingredient Kalua Pig recipe is not only incredibly simple but also delivers an unforgettable flavor that will transport your taste buds to the Hawaiian islands. The tender pork, infused with smoky goodness, is a hit every time. Perfect for feeding a crowd or for an easy weeknight meal, this dish is versatile and sure to become a staple in your cooking rotation.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked. And if you’re looking for more quick, delicious recipes that make use of your slow cooker, check out our other recipes for more easy, flavorful meals. Don’t forget to share your experience with us—whether it’s a small tweak you made or just your enjoyment of this delicious dish. We’d love to hear from you!