Easy 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pork

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Equipment Needed

  • Slow cooker (6-quart or larger recommended)
  • Forks for shredding the pork
  • Knife for trimming (optional)
  • Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Pork

  • Trim any excess fat from your pork shoulder, leaving a thin layer to keep the meat juicy while cooking.
  • Pat the pork dry with paper towels to help the seasonings stick better.

Step 2: Season the Meat

  • Rub the pork generously with sea salt, making sure every surface is coated. Hawaiian sea salt is ideal because it adds authentic flavor, but regular kosher salt works fine.
  • Drizzle the liquid smoke over the pork. This is what gives Kalua pork its signature smoky aroma, reminiscent of traditional Hawaiian cooking.

Step 3: Place in the Slow Cooker

  • Position the pork in your slow cooker, fat side up. This allows the fat to melt into the meat as it cooks, keeping it moist and tender.
  • There’s no need to add water—the pork will release its own juices, creating a natural sauce as it cooks.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

  • Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 8–10 hours, or high heat for 4–6 hours.
  • The pork is done when it’s extremely tender and easily shredded with two forks.

Step 5: Shred the Pork

  • Remove the pork from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board or large plate.
  • Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
  • Optional: Mix the shredded pork with the cooking juices in the slow cooker for extra flavor and moisture.

Step 6: Serve

  • Serve your Kalua pork over steamed rice or stuff it into Hawaiian sweet rolls for a delicious sandwich.
  • Add a side of shredded cabbage or coleslaw for a fresh, crunchy contrast.

Tips for the Best Kalua Pork

  • Use fatty pork: A well-marbled pork shoulder ensures tenderness and rich flavor.
  • Don’t skip the liquid smoke: This ingredient replicates the traditional smoky flavor from an imu oven.
  • Low and slow wins: Cooking on low heat for a longer time produces the most tender, juicy pork.
  • Make extra: Kalua pork keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days and freezes beautifully for future meals.

Final Thoughts

With only three ingredients and minimal prep, this Easy 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pork captures the authentic flavors of Hawaii in a fraction of the time. Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and smoky taste make it a family favorite, perfect for casual dinners, parties, or Hawaiian-themed gatherings.

Even if you’ve never cooked Kalua pork before, this foolproof method guarantees a delicious result every time. Just set it, forget it, and enjoy the tropical flavors waiting for you when you lift the lid.


If you want, I can also create a visual step-by-step guide with photos for each step to make this recipe even easier to follow. It’ll look like a professional cookbook spread.

Do you want me to do that?

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