Kalua Pork

Kalua Pork is a traditional Hawaiian-style pulled pork made slowly until tender and flavorful. This version is incredibly simple, using a long cook time and a few key ingredients to create rich, savory pork that shreds easily and stays moist. It’s a reliable main dish for gatherings, family dinners, and make-ahead meals.

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Kalua Pork

Slow-cooked Kalua Pork made with minimal ingredients and a long, low cook time for tender, flavorful shredded pork. Perfect for serving with rice, macaroni salad, or other classic sides.

Ingredients

• 4-5 pound pork shoulder roast or other roast, as desired
• 1/2 cup liquid smoke
• 1 cup pineapple juice optional
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• coarse sea salt

Instructions

Oven Method

• Preheat oven to 325°F. Place pork roast in a deep roasting pan to catch drippings.

  Generously season the roast with coarse sea salt. Pour liquid smoke evenly over the pork.

  Cover tightly with foil and bake for at least 5 hours, or until pork reaches 145°F and shreds easily.

  Remove from oven and shred pork, discarding undesirable pieces. Reserve some of the drippings and mix back into the shredded meat to keep it moist.

  Keep warm until ready to serve.

Slow Cooker Method

• Season pork generously with coarse sea salt and place in slow cooker.

  Pour liquid smoke and pineapple juice over the pork.

  Cook on low for 8–10 hours, until pork shreds easily.

  Shred and mix with cooking juices before serving.

Notes

• This pork can be made a day ahead and reheated gently with reserved juices.

  Serve with rice, macaroni salad, or fruit for a complete plate.

  Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.