Aloha Flavor Without the Fuss

 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig

An Authentic Taste of Hawaii Made Effortless in Your Crockpot

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Aloha Flavor Without the Fuss

If you're craving the smoky, savory richness of traditional Hawaiian kalua pork, but don't have access to an underground imu oven (who does?), you're in luck. This 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig delivers the authentic luau experience—right from your kitchen. With just pork, Hawaiian sea salt, and liquid smoke, you’ll unlock a deep, earthy flavor that tastes like it’s been slow-roasted over hot coals. But the secret? Your slow cooker does all the work.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard luau, feeding a hungry family, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a flavor-packed, foolproof favorite that’s endlessly versatile and downright irresistible.

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🛒 Ingredients (and Why They Matter)

1. Pork Shoulder (aka Pork Butt) – 4 to 6 pounds

The marbled fat in pork shoulder melts as it cooks, resulting in meat that’s juicy, tender, and shreds effortlessly. It’s the traditional cut used in kalua pig for its flavor and texture.

2. Hawaiian Sea Salt (or Kosher Salt) – 1 to 1.5 tablespoons

Hawaiian sea salt gives an authentic island touch, but kosher salt works well too. This seasoning draws out the pork’s natural flavors and helps form a subtle crust.

3. Liquid Smoke (Hickory or Mesquite) – 1 tablespoon

This is the magic ingredient. Just a bit adds that smoky, fire-roasted essence, mimicking the imu oven and giving the dish its signature depth and richness.

> ✅ Pro Tip: Use a natural, no-additive liquid smoke to avoid bitterness.

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🥘 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Pork

Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels.

Score the fat cap with a sharp knife to allow the seasoning to penetrate.

2. Season Generously

Rub the pork all over with Hawaiian sea salt.

Drizzle liquid smoke over the meat, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Place pork in your slow cooker, fat side up for maximum moisture retention.

3. Cook Low & Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 10–12 hours, or until the pork is fall-apart tender.

Do not open the lid during cooking—retaining heat and moisture is key.

4. Shred & Serve

Remove pork from the slow cooker.

Shred with two forks, discarding excess fat.

Return the meat to the slow cooker and mix it with the juices for maximum flavor and moisture.

> 🔥 Pro Tip: For slightly crispy edges, spread shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 5–7 minutes before serving.

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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Only 3 ingredients – Simplifies your shopping list without compromising flavor.

Hands-off cooking – Set it, forget it, and enjoy restaurant-quality results.

Massively versatile – Great for tacos, sliders, rice bowls, wraps, or meal prep.

Crowd-pleaser – Makes enough for a gathering, and leftovers taste even better.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Traditional Hawaiian Plate

Serve with steamed white rice, lomi salmon, and Hawaiian macaroni salad.

Kalua Pork Sliders

Pile onto sweet Hawaiian rolls, add pineapple slaw or a splash of BBQ sauce.

Luau-Inspired Rice Bowls

Layer shredded pork over rice with pickled vegetables, avocado, and a drizzle of spicy mayo.

Kalua Tacos

Wrap in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.

> 🌱 Going low-carb? Swap rice for cauliflower rice or serve over a crisp green salad.

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🌟 Pro Tips for Perfect Kalua Pig

Fat-side up is non-negotiable—it self-bastes the meat during cooking.

Don’t rush it: High heat makes pork dry and stringy. Low and slow guarantees tenderness.

Want to freeze? Portion shredded pork in airtight containers with its juice for easy reheating later.

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🔚 Final Thoughts: A Little Effort, Big Island Flavor

This 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig is proof that simple can be sensational. You don’t need a pit, a pig, or a plane ticket to Hawaii—just a slow cooker, some pantry basics, and a bit of patience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or savoring leftovers all week, this dish brings bold island flavor to your table with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.

Looking for an authentic-tasting Hawaiian recipe that’s easy, affordable, and unforgettable? Bookmark this now—because once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again.

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Craving more island-inspired recipes?

Subscribe for tropical favorites, luau tips, and foolproof slow cooker dishes that bring the Aloha spirit home. 🌺

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