Easy 3-Ingredient Kalua Pig Recipe in a Slow Cooker
If you love smoky, tender, and juicy pulled pork with authentic Hawaiian flavors, this Easy 3-Ingredient Kalua Pig Recipe is a must-try! Traditionally, Kalua Pig is cooked in an underground oven called an imu, but with this recipe, you can recreate the same rich taste right in your slow cooker. With just pork shoulder, Hawaiian Alaea sea salt, and liquid smoke, you’ll enjoy a delicious, no-fuss dish perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Only 3 ingredients needed – simple and budget-friendly.
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Set it and forget it – slow cooker does all the work.
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Authentic Hawaiian-inspired flavor without the imu pit.
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Great for meal prep – freezes and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients (Serves 8)
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4–5 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt)
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1 tablespoon Alaea sea salt (Hawaiian red salt – or substitute kosher salt)
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1 tablespoon liquid smoke
Equipment Needed
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6-quart or larger slow cooker
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Fork or sharp knife (for piercing meat)
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Tongs or two forks (for shredding pork)
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Optional: Oven broiler (for crispy finish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pork
Use a fork or sharp knife to pierce the pork shoulder all over. This allows the smoky, salty flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.
Step 2: Season with Salt
Rub the pork generously with Alaea sea salt, coating it evenly on all sides. This special Hawaiian salt gives the pork its signature earthy flavor.
(Tip: If you don’t have Alaea salt, you can substitute kosher salt—just use slightly less and adjust to taste.)
Step 3: Add to Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned pork into the slow cooker. Drizzle liquid smoke over the top for that authentic smoky taste.
Step 4: Slow Cook Low & Slow
Set your slow cooker to LOW and cover. Cook for about 16 hours. Yes, it’s a long time, but this slow cooking process is the key to tender, flavorful Kalua Pig.
Step 5: Shred the Pork
When the cooking time is done, the pork should be extremely soft and tender. Use two forks to shred the meat directly in the slow cooker, discarding any excess fat. Mix well so the shredded pork absorbs the juices.
Step 6 (Optional): Crisp Under the Broiler
If you prefer a bit of texture, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3–5 minutes until slightly crispy on the edges.
Tips & Variations
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Banana Leaf Option: For extra authenticity, place a banana leaf over the pork before cooking. While not essential, it adds a subtle earthy aroma.
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Serving Suggestions: Serve over steamed white rice, with Hawaiian macaroni salad, or inside Hawaiian rolls for sliders.
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Make Ahead & Freeze: Kalua Pig freezes beautifully. Store in airtight containers, thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat for a quick meal.
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Don’t Rush It: Resist the temptation to cook on high—low and slow is the secret to tender, fall-apart pork.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – 8 Servings)
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Calories: 354 kcal
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Protein: 32g
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Fat: 24g
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Saturated Fat: 9g
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Cholesterol: 122mg
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Sodium: 590mg
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Carbohydrates: 1g
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Fiber: 0g
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Sugar: 0g
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Potassium: 520mg
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Iron: 2mg
With just 3 ingredients and a slow cooker, you can make authentic-tasting Hawaiian Kalua Pig at home—tender, smoky, and packed with flavor. Perfect for a crowd, meal prepping, or simply when you’re craving island comfort food.