3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Kalua Pig filling your home as it slowly cooks to tender perfection.

This traditional Hawaiian dish is known for its smoky, salty, and incredibly juicy flavor, typically cooked underground in an imu (an earth oven).

However, with just three simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can easily recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen!

Whether you’re serving it with rice, in tacos, or as sliders, Kalua Pig is a versatile dish that’s both effortless and delicious.

For more easy slow cooker recipes, visit tinsuf.com, where you’ll find plenty of inspiration for simple, flavorful meals.

Ingredients

4-5 pounds pork butt or shoulder roast

2 tablespoons Hawaiian sea salt or coarse kosher salt

1 ½ tablespoons liquid smoke

For more ingredient substitutions and variations, check out tinsuf.com, where you’ll find alternative cooking methods and seasoning options.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

Start by patting the pork butt dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture and allows the seasonings to adhere better.

Then, use a fork to prick holes all over the pork, ensuring that the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat.

Step 2: Season the Pork

Rub the Hawaiian sea salt (or coarse kosher salt) and liquid smoke evenly over the pork. Massage the seasonings into the meat to enhance the flavors.

If you want extra seasoning, you can also add black pepper, smoked paprika, or garlic powder for more depth.

Looking for more seasoning ideas? Visit tinsuf.com to explore different spice blends that pair well with Kalua Pig!

Step 3: Cook in the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned pork into the slow cooker and cover it with the lid. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, turning the pork over halfway through the cooking time.

For added moisture and extra flavor, you can place sliced onions or cabbage at the bottom of the slow cooker before adding the pork. This will infuse the dish with even more depth and richness.

Step 4: Shred the Pork

Once the pork is fall-apart tender, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. The meat should be incredibly soft and juicy.

For extra texture, broil or air fry the shredded pork for 5-10 minutes before serving. This creates a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Want more tips on achieving the perfect texture? Head over to tinsuf.com for expert cooking techniques!

Serving Suggestions

Kalua Pig is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways:

✔ Over rice – The classic Hawaiian way! Serve with steamed white rice and a side of macaroni salad for a traditional plate lunch.

✔ In tacos – Stuff the shredded pork into corn tortillas and top with pineapple salsa, slaw, or avocado.

✔ As sliders – Serve the pork on Hawaiian sweet rolls with a tangy BBQ sauce or slaw.

✔ With roasted vegetables – Pair it with roasted potatoes, sweet potatoes, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Looking for more serving ideas? Visit tinsuf.com for creative meal inspirations!

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Kalua Pig

Use the right cut of pork – Pork butt or pork shoulder works best because they are well-marbled and break down beautifully during slow cooking.

Don’t skip the liquid smoke – This is what gives the Kalua Pig its signature smoky flavor without the traditional underground pit.

For extra juiciness, add ½ cup of water or broth to the slow cooker.

Want a spicy kick? Add a dash of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Only 3 Ingredients – No complicated seasonings or prep work!

✔ Effortless Cooking – Just set it in the slow cooker and let it work its magic.

✔ Rich, Smoky Flavor – Tastes like it’s been cooked in a traditional imu!

✔ Versatile & Meal-Prep Friendly – Perfect for sandwiches, rice bowls, tacos, and more.

For more easy, slow-cooked meals, be sure to check out tinsuf.com for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!