Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Pork
Rinse the pork shoulder and pat it dry with paper towels. Use a sharp knife to score the meat lightly so the seasoning penetrates deeper.
2. Season Generously
Rub the Hawaiian sea salt all over the pork. Then drizzle the liquid smoke evenly over the meat, ensuring the flavor soaks in.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
Place the pork in the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 16–20 hours or high for 8–10 hours, depending on your schedule. The long, slow cook is what makes the pork so tender it practically falls apart.
4. Shred and Serve
Once done, remove the pork and shred it using two forks. Return it to the slow cooker to soak in the juices before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
How to Enjoy Kalua Pig
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Classic Hawaiian Plate: Serve with steamed white rice and macaroni salad.
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Kalua Pig Sliders: Pile onto Hawaiian sweet rolls with coleslaw.
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Taco Night Twist: Use the shredded pork as a smoky, savory taco filling.
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Breakfast Style: Pair with scrambled eggs and fried rice.
Why This Recipe Works
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Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: Salt, smoke, and pork do all the heavy lifting.
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Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does the work while you go about your day.
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Authentic Inspiration: While it doesn’t use an imu, it captures the essence of traditional Kalua Pig.
Final Thoughts
With just three ingredients and a slow cooker, you can bring a taste of Hawaii right into your kitchen. This Kalua Pig is smoky, juicy, and versatile—perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Whether you keep it simple with rice or get creative with sliders and tacos, it’s proof that sometimes the best recipes are also the simplest.
