3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig

 

3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig: Hawaiian Comfort Made Easy

Kalua Pig is a classic Hawaiian dish known for its tender, smoky flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Traditionally, it’s cooked in an underground oven called an imu, but modern kitchens can recreate this delicious dish with just a few simple ingredients and a slow cooker. This 3-ingredient slow cooker Kalua Pig is perfect for busy cooks who want authentic Hawaiian flavor without the hassle.

Why Kalua Pig Is Special

Kalua Pig is more than just pulled pork—it’s a cultural staple in Hawaiian cuisine, often served at luau celebrations, family gatherings, and festive events. The meat is traditionally smoked with liquid smoke and wrapped in banana leaves, which gives it its signature earthy, smoky flavor. Using a slow cooker replicates this process while keeping the dish simple and convenient.

Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—only three ingredients are needed:

1. Pork shoulder or butt – The most important ingredient. Its fat content keeps the meat juicy and flavorful during slow cooking.

2. Hawaiian sea salt (or kosher salt) – Provides seasoning and helps replicate the traditional Kalua Pig flavor.

3. Liquid smoke – Gives the pork that authentic smoky taste without needing a smoker.

Optional: Serve with steamed rice or Hawaiian-style sides like macaroni salad or pineapple.

3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 6–8):

• 3–4 lb pork shoulder or pork butt

• 2 tsp Hawaiian sea salt (or kosher salt)

• 2 tsp liquid smoke

Instructions:

1. Rub the pork shoulder evenly with Hawaiian sea salt.

2. Pour liquid smoke over the pork, ensuring it coats all sides.

3. Place the pork in your slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or on high for 4–6 hours, until the meat is tender and easily shredded.

4. Once cooked, remove the pork and shred it using two forks. Mix it back into the juices in the slow cooker to soak up all the smoky, salty goodness.

5. Serve hot with steamed rice, Hawaiian rolls, or your favorite sides.

Tips for the Perfect Kalua Pig

• Don’t skip the liquid smoke—it’s essential for that signature Kalua flavor.

• Low and slow is key: Cooking at a lower temperature for longer ensures the pork is tender and flavorful.

• Save the drippings: Mixing the shredded pork with the cooking juices keeps it moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

Kalua Pig is incredibly versatile:

• Serve over rice for a classic Hawaiian plate lunch.

• Use as a filling for tacos or sandwiches.

• Add to sliders or nachos for a smoky twist on game-day snacks.

Final Thoughts

With just three ingredients and minimal effort, this slow cooker Kalua Pig brings the authentic taste of Hawaii straight to your kitchen. It’s tender, smoky, and perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or any time you want a tropical flavor boost.