kalua pork crockpot recipe

The Best kalua pork crockpot recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Kalua Pork Crockpot Recipe. This traditional Hawaiian dish is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one of your family’s favorites too. The rich flavors and tender meat are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a special event.

My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, and they always ask for seconds when we serve it up. The history of Kalua pork dates back to ancient Hawaii, where it was slow-cooked in an underground oven called an imu. The pork is wrapped in leaves and steamed to perfection, resulting in a deliciously smoky flavor.

I’ve adapted this recipe to fit my crockpot, making it easy to prepare and cook. Just throw all the ingredients in the crockpot, and let the magic happen. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make.

Simply brown some onions and garlic, add the pork and other ingredients, and let the crockpot do the rest. The end result is tender, juicy pork that falls apart easily. My family loves serving this with steamed vegetables or over rice.

Kalua pork is also a great way to get in some essential vitamins and minerals. Pork is an excellent source of protein, while the leafy greens like kale or spinach add iron and calcium. I like to serve this dish with some roasted vegetables on the side to round out the meal.

Kalua Pork Crockpot Recipe

4.8 from 1475 votes

This slow cooker kalua pork delivers tender, smoky shredded pork with minimal effort. The pork shoulder is seasoned with sea salt and liquid smoke, then cooked low and slow until it falls apart.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time8 hours
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time8 hours 10 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

4 pounds pork shoulder (Boston butt)
1 1/2 tablespoons coarse sea salt (Hawaiian or kosher)
2 tablespoons liquid smoke (hickory flavor)
1/2 cup water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.
2Using a sharp knife, score the fat cap in a crosshatch pattern about 1/4 inch deep, which helps the seasoning penetrate.
3Rub the coarse sea salt evenly over all sides of the pork, pressing it into the scored fat.
4Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the slow cooker with the fat side up.
5Drizzle the liquid smoke over the top, then pour the water around the sides without washing off the salt.
6Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set to low heat.
7Cook for 8 to 10 hours on low, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 200°F and the meat shreds easily with a fork.
8The pork should be very tender and pull apart with minimal resistance when tested at the thickest part.
9Carefully transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board using tongs, reserving the cooking liquid in the slow cooker.
10Shred the meat with two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat.
11Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and toss with about 1/2 cup of the reserved liquid to keep it moist.

🔧Equipment

6-quart slow cooker
Tongs
Two forks for shredding
Cutting board
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 30g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 0g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 40g

📝Notes

For authentic flavor, use Hawaiian sea salt (alaea) if available. Serve with steamed white rice and cabbage. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Kalua Pork Crockpot Recipe Works

This kalua pork crockpot recipe is one of my go to meals for family gatherings and potlucks because it feeds a crowd with almost no effort. I love that I can set it in the morning and forget about it until dinner time.

The leftovers are just as good the next day and you can use them for tacos, sandwiches, or salads. To store leftovers, put the pork in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to four days.

You can also freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, warm it in a skillet with a splash of the cooking liquid or in the microwave.

Serve it over rice with some grilled pineapple or a side of macaroni salad for a complete meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Kalua Pork Crockpot

What is Kalua pork?

Kalua pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish made by slow-cooking pork in an underground oven called an imu.

Can I use boneless pork shoulder?

Yes, you can use boneless pork shoulder for this recipe.

How do I store leftover Kalua pork?

Leftover Kalua pork can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

No, this recipe requires a crockpot to achieve the right texture and flavor.

Is Kalua pork healthy?

Kalua pork is a nutritious option when served with plenty of vegetables.

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