Easy 3-Ingredient Slow Cooker Kalua Pork

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?