Enjoy a taste of Hawaii in every bite of this smoked Kalua pork recipe. Enjoy tender, flavorful meat with a gentle smoky taste made in your slow cooker. And you only need 3 ingredients!

What is in your Smoked Kalua Pork Recipe?
Traditional kalua pork is often cooked underground for many hours with a pit style cooking method using lava rocks, banana and ti leaves. It's a time consuming and difficult process but worth it if you are able to get your hands on traditional fresh pit cooked Hawaiian Kalua pork. You can get a similar taste and texture by making your pork in the slow cooker.
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Ingredients
You need just a few simple ingredients to start making your pork:
- Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- Hawaiian sea salt
- Liquid smoke
- Bacon (optional)
Instructions
- Rub the pork in salt and liquid smoke.
- Arrange the bacon strips in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single line. Add the pork on top.
- Close the slow cooker and cook on low for 16-20 hours. Shred and serve with cooked cabbage, rice or pineapple.
Serving
Serve Kahlua pork with:
- Cooked cabbage
- Rice
- Grilled pineapple
- Hawaiian macaroni salad
- Tacos or sliders
- Pulled pork mac and cheese
This pork recipe is so versatile. For a different pork roast taste you can try our Puerto Rican pot roast or a delicious Mississippi pot roast!
Storing
To store place the pork in a container and refrigerate for up to four days or place in an airtight freezer container for up to three months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQ
Here are some questions you might have about making this smoked kalua pork recipe:
The best cut for kalua pork is the pork shoulder, also known as pork butt or Boston butt. It has the right amount of fat and marbling, making it ideal for slow cooking and smoking.
Yes, this recipe is considered gluten free. Check to make sure the liquid smoke you use is gluten free. The good news is this recipe is also dairy free too!
3 Ingredient Smoked Kalua Pork Recipe
Equipment
- slow cooker
Ingredients
- 1 5-6 pound pork butt roast
- 3 slices bacon (optional)
- ½-1 tablespoon sea salt hawaiian or coarse salt recommended
- 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
Instructions
- Season the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder thoroughly with the Hawaiian sea salt and liquid smoke, ensuring an even coating on all sides.
- Arrange the Bacon: Lay the bacon strips in a single layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the Pork: Place the seasoned pork shoulder on top of the bacon strips.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 16-20 hours.
- Shred and Serve: Once done, shred the pork using two forks and serve with cooked cabbage, rice, or pineapple.
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