What cut of pork is best for Kalua Pulled Pork?

The best cut of pork for Kalua Pulled Pork is a pork shoulder or pork butt. These cuts have the right amount of fat and connective tissue that breaks down during slow cooking, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. Look for a 4-6 pound cut with good marbling. The fat renders during cooking, keeping the meat moist and adding flavor. Boston butt is a great choice as it's readily available and becomes incredibly tender when cooked slowly.

How long does it take to cook Kalua Pulled Pork in a slow cooker?

Kalua Pulled Pork typically takes 14-16 hours on low setting or 8-10 hours on high in a slow cooker. The long cooking time is essential for breaking down the tough connective tissues in the pork shoulder, resulting in tender, easily shreddable meat. The pork is done when it falls apart easily with a fork and reaches an internal temperature of at least 195°F. For best results, cook overnight on low or start early in the morning if serving for dinner.

Do I need to add liquid when making Kalua Pulled Pork in a slow cooker?

Traditional Kalua Pork doesn't require added liquid as the pork releases its own juices during cooking. However, many recipes call for 1-2 tablespoons of liquid smoke to impart that authentic smoky flavor reminiscent of the traditional underground imu cooking method. Some cooks add a small amount of water or broth (about 1/4 cup) to prevent burning, but this is optional. The key ingredient is salt, which helps draw out moisture from the pork.

What's the difference between traditional Kalua Pork and slow cooker version?

Traditional Kalua Pork is cooked in an underground oven called an imu, where a whole pig is salted, wrapped in banana leaves or ti leaves, and placed over hot rocks and covered for several hours. The slow cooker version mimics this process using liquid smoke for the smoky flavor and long cooking time to tenderize the meat. While the slow cooker method doesn't produce exactly the same results as the traditional imu, it creates a delicious approximation that's much more accessible for home cooks.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Kalua Pulled Pork?

Slow Cooker Kalua Pulled Pork is traditionally served with steamed white rice and a side of macaroni salad. For a more authentic Hawaiian plate lunch experience, add some lomi-lomi salmon (a tomato and salmon salad) and a side of pineapple. The shredded pork also works well in tacos, sandwiches, or alongside roasted vegetables. For a low-carb option, serve it with cauliflower rice or a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pork.

Easy Slow Cooker Kalua Pulled Pork with Island Flavors

Name: Slow Cooker Kalua Pulled Pork
Prep time: PT-490718H36M21S
Cook time: PT-490718H31M21S
Total time: PT-490718H31M21S
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: – 4-pound pork shoulder roast; – 1 tablespoon liquid smoke Adds that authentic smoky flavor; – 1 tablespoon salt Brings out the natural flavors and helps season the pork

Description

🍖 This Slow Cooker Kalua Pork recipe infuses tender pork shoulder with authentic Hawaiian island flavors using simple, easy ingredients.
⏳ Perfect for hands-off cooking, it yields juicy, flavorful pork great for a variety of dishes from tacos to sandwiches.

Ingredients

– 4-pound pork shoulder roast

– 1 tablespoon liquid smoke Adds that authentic smoky flavor

– 1 tablespoon salt Brings out the natural flavors and helps season the pork

Instructions

1-First Step: Start by lightly greasing your slow cooker with nonstick spray to prevent any sticking and make cleanup a breeze. This little step ensures your pork comes out perfectly every time. Grab your 4-pound pork shoulder roast and get ready for the next move it’s that simple!

2-Second Step: Pierce the pork roast all over with a fork. This helps the flavors soak in deep, making the meat extra tender. Place it right into the slow cooker and feel excited about the amazing meal you’re creating. Don’t skip this it’s key for that fall-apart texture!

3-Third Step: Pour 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke evenly over the roast. Then, sprinkle on 1 tablespoon of salt to season it perfectly. These ingredients work together to give you that authentic island taste without any extra work. Wow, can you smell the goodness already?

4-Fourth Step: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 8 to 12 hours, depending on your roast size. This long cook time is what makes the pork so juicy and shreddable aim for an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. If you’re using a larger roast, remember to double the liquid smoke and salt for even better results. For more ideas on slow cooking, check out my Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe for another easy favorite.

5-Fifth Step: Once the time’s up, check for doneness by inserting a meat thermometer it should read 145 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s ready, remove the lid and let the pork rest for a moment. This is where the excitement builds, as you’ll shred it next!

6-Sixth Step: Use two forks to shred the pork directly in the slow cooker. It’s so tender, it practically falls apart on its own talk about satisfying! At this point, you can mix in any juices for extra flavor. Serve it up in all sorts of ways, like in tacos or over rice, and enjoy the versatility.

7-Final Step: Dish it out as you like maybe alone, in salads, wraps, sandwiches, or even over baked potatoes. The total time is about 10 hours, including prep, so plan ahead for a stress-free meal. Oh, and for nutritional info, each serving has roughly 1 kcal, 1 g protein, and 876 mg sodium keep it balanced with your favorite sides. To learn more about pork’s health benefits, visit this helpful resource.

Notes

🔥 For larger roasts, double the liquid smoke and salt for balanced flavor.
❄️ Store leftovers airtight in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for six months.
💧 No added liquid or broth is needed — the pork releases sufficient juices while cooking.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 8 to 12 hours
Cook Time: 8 to 12 hours
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Hawaiian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup shredded pork
Calories: 200
Sugar: 0 grams
Sodium: 876 milligrams
Fat: 12 grams
Saturated Fat: 4 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 7 grams
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 0 grams
Fiber: 0 grams
Protein: 20 grams
Cholesterol: 70 milligrams

Keywords: Slow Cooker Kalua Pork, Hawaiian Pork, Pulled Pork Recipe, Kalua Pork Slow Cooker