Welcome to the culinary paradise where simplicity meets flavor in a spectacular way! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that is not only incredibly easy to prepare but also rich in taste and tradition: the 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig. This dish is a staple in Hawaiian cuisine, and I can assure you, it’s going to be a game-changer for your meal repertoire. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey with a recipe that’s as simple as it is delicious.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 hours
- Total Time: 16 hours and 10 minutes
- Servings: 10-12
Ingredients:
- 5 pounds of boneless pork shoulder
- 1 tablespoon of Alaea sea salt (Hawaiian Red Salt)
- 1 tablespoon of liquid smoke
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Pork: Begin by patting dry the boneless pork shoulder with paper towels. This step is crucial for ensuring that the flavors of the Alaea sea salt and liquid smoke penetrate deeply.
- Season Generously: Rub the entire surface of the pork shoulder with the Alaea sea salt, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Then, drizzle the liquid smoke over the pork, rubbing it in to distribute evenly. The Alaea sea salt not only imparts a unique, earthy flavor but also gives the pork its characteristic reddish hue, while the liquid smoke infuses it with a tantalizing smoky aroma.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Place the seasoned pork in your slow cooker. Set it to cook on low for about 16 hours, turning the pork over halfway through the cooking time. This long, slow cooking process is key to achieving the tender, fall-apart texture that Kalua Pig is famous for.
- Shred and Serve: Once the pork is cooked and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. The pork should be incredibly tender and infused with the rich, smoky flavors of the sea salt and liquid smoke.
- Enjoy the Hawaiian Flavor: Serve your Kalua Pig hot, accompanied by steamed rice, Hawaiian sweet rolls, or your favorite side dishes. It’s a versatile recipe that’s perfect for a family dinner, a festive gathering, or simply when you crave a taste of Hawaii.
This 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a journey to the heart of Hawaiian culinary tradition, where the essence of simple, quality ingredients is celebrated. With just boneless pork shoulder, Alaea sea salt, and liquid smoke, you can recreate a beloved Hawaiian classic in your own kitchen, bringing a touch of the islands to your dining table.
