crock pot kalua pork recipe

crock pot kalua pork recipe

The Best crock pot kalua pork recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite crock pot kalua pork recipe. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. Kalua pork is a traditional Hawaiian dish that’s slow-cooked in an underground oven, or imu, to give it that tender and flavorful texture.

But who needs an imu when you can use a crock pot? This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves pork and is looking for a hands-off cooking solution. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort on your part.

Just throw all the ingredients in the crock pot, set the timer, and let the magic happen. My family loves this recipe because it’s so versatile – we can serve it as a main course, add it to tacos or sandwiches, or use it as a topping for salads or nachos. And the best part?

It’s incredibly healthy too – we’re talking lean protein, complex carbs, and plenty of vitamins and minerals from the veggies. Plus, the slow-cooking process breaks down all the connective tissue in the meat, making it tender and easy to chew. I like to serve this dish with some steamed veggies and a side of rice or quinoa for a well-rounded meal.

My kids love helping me prepare this meal because they get to be involved in the process from start to finish – they love pouring in the liquid smoke and stirring up the spices. And when we sit down to eat together as a family, everyone raves about how delicious this meal is. I’ve tried countless recipes over the years, but this one remains my go-to for special occasions and everyday meals alike.

It’s just that good! And don’t even get me started on how easy it is to customize – we like adding different spices or herbs to give it an extra kick of flavor.

Crock Pot Kalua Pork

Crock Pot Kalua Pork

4.9 from 1447 votes

This slow cooker version of traditional Hawaiian 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: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 pounds pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
1 1/2 tablespoons Hawaiian sea salt or coarse sea salt
2 tablespoons liquid smoke flavoring
1/2 cup water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Using a sharp knife, score the fat cap of the pork shoulder in a crosshatch pattern about 1 inch deep.
2Rub the salt evenly over all sides of the pork, pressing it into the scored fat and meat.
3Place the seasoned pork shoulder into the slow cooker with the fat side up.
4Pour the liquid smoke and water around the pork, not directly over the top, to avoid washing off the salt.
5Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours, or on high heat for 5 to 6 hours.
6The pork is done when it is fork-tender and easily pulls apart with a gentle twist.
7Carefully transfer the cooked pork to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes.
8Using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any large pieces of fat or bone.
9Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker and toss it with the cooking juices.
10Taste and adjust salt if needed, then serve hot over rice or in buns with coleslaw.

🔧Equipment

6-quart or larger slow cooker
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Two forks for shredding
Measuring spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 26g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 110mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 0g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 34g

📝Notes

For a more authentic flavor, wrap the pork in banana leaves before placing it in the slow cooker. Leftover pork can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Crock Pot Kalua Pork Works

This crock pot kalua pork recipe has become a staple in our household – we love serving it at family gatherings and special occasions alike. One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily customizable it is – we like adding different spices or herbs to give it an extra kick of flavor.

And don’t even get me started on how convenient it is – just toss all the ingredients in the crock pot and let it do its magic while you’re busy with other things. Plus, it’s incredibly healthy too – we’re talking lean protein, complex carbs, and plenty of vitamins and minerals from the veggies.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Kalua Pork

Q: What’s the difference between kalua pork and other slow-cooked pork recipes?

Kalua pork is unique because of its traditional Hawaiian roots and the way it’s cooked in an underground oven or imu. This gives it a distinct flavor and texture that’s hard to replicate with other cooking methods.

Q: Can I use boneless pork shoulder instead of bone-in?

You can use either boneless or bone-in pork shoulder for this recipe – just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I store leftover kalua pork?

Store leftover kalua pork in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe without liquid smoke?

You can omit the liquid smoke if you prefer, but keep in mind that it adds a deep smoky flavor that’s characteristic of traditional kalua pork.

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of ground pork?

No, you should use ground pork for this recipe – ground beef will give you a different flavor profile altogether.

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