3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pig

Instructions:

1. Prep the Pork:
   Start by trimming any excess fat from the pork butt, but don’t remove all of it. Some fat is essential for keeping the pork moist and tender during cooking. Place the pork in your slow cooker whole—no need to cut it into smaller pieces.
2. Season the Pork:
   Rub the sea salt all over the surface of the pork. Be sure to cover it evenly on all sides. Then, drizzle the liquid smoke over the pork. You can use a spoon to spread the liquid smoke and ensure that it gets absorbed into the meat.
3. Cook on Low:
   Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pork is fully cooked and can be easily shredded with a fork. You’ll know it’s done when the meat is fork-tender and falls apart effortlessly.
4. Shred the Pork:
   Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker. Let it cool for a few minutes, then use two forks to shred the meat. It should come apart easily. If you want to serve the pork with the juices, you can mix the shredded meat with the flavorful liquid left in the slow cooker.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   Your Kalua Pig is ready to enjoy! Serve it over rice, in tacos, on sandwiches, or as part of a Hawaiian-inspired feast. You can even add a side of tangy pineapple salsa or a simple salad to balance the savory flavors.

Creative Ways to Serve Kalua Pig

While Kalua Pig is fantastic served on its own, there are plenty of ways to enjoy it and give your meal a unique twist. Here are some fun ideas to inspire you:

1. Kalua Pig on Rice (Hawaiian Plate)

The classic way to serve Kalua Pig is over a bed of steamed white rice, often paired with macaroni salad and grilled vegetables. This gives you a traditional Hawaiian plate lunch that’s perfect for any occasion.

2. Kalua Pig Tacos

For a delicious fusion, use the shredded Kalua Pig in soft tacos. Top with a bit of pineapple salsa, avocado, and some cilantro for a tropical twist.

3. Kalua Pig Sliders

Make some mini sliders using Hawaiian sweet rolls. Add a little bit of shredded Kalua Pig, a slice of cheese, and a dollop of barbecue sauce or coleslaw. These make perfect appetizers or a fun, casual meal.

4. Kalua Pig and Cabbage Stir Fry

For a lighter option, stir-fry the shredded Kalua Pig with cabbage and a splash of soy sauce. This is a simple and tasty dish that’s both satisfying and healthy.

5. Kalua Pig in a Bowl

Serve the shredded pork in a bowl, topped with steamed rice, vegetables, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce. For added flavor, toss the pork in a teriyaki sauce or BBQ sauce before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

This 3-ingredient slow cooker Kalua Pig is incredibly simple, but it’s bursting with flavor. The slow cooking process allows the pork to become tender and soak up the smokiness from the liquid smoke. The addition of sea salt enhances the meat’s natural flavors and makes it irresistibly savory. By using only three ingredients, you keep things straightforward without compromising on taste. It’s perfect for busy days when you want to set it and forget it, yet come home to a satisfying, delicious meal.

Tips for the Perfect Kalua Pig

• Don’t Skip the Liquid Smoke: Liquid smoke is the key to achieving the authentic smoky flavor without a smoker or outdoor cooking. If you want a stronger smoky taste, feel free to add an extra teaspoon of liquid smoke.
• Adjust Salt to Taste: While the 2 tablespoons of sea salt works well for most people, you can adjust it based on your preference or if you plan to use the pork in different dishes.
• Use a Larger Slow Cooker: If you have a bigger roast or a larger slow cooker, feel free to increase the amount of meat. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Save the Juices: Don’t throw away the juices left in the slow cooker! They’re packed with flavor and can be used to drizzle over the shredded pork, making it even more tender and flavorful.

Conclusion: Simple, Flavorful, and Satisfying

This 3-ingredient slow cooker Kalua Pig recipe proves that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. With minimal effort, you can enjoy the smoky, tender pork that’s a hallmark of Hawaiian cuisine. Whether you’re serving it on rice, in tacos, or in sliders, the flavor is rich and authentic, making it perfect for family dinners, parties, or any occasion. So, fire up your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s packed with flavor and practically cooks itself!