Kalua Pig Sliders
A simplified, slider-friendly version of the traditional Hawaiian Kalua Pig, slow-cooked in an imu (underground oven). This recipe uses a modern oven or slow cooker method to achieve tender, smoky shredded pork.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 lbs Pork Shoulder (Boston Butt)(bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tbsp Hawaiian Sea Salt
- 2 tbsp Liquid Smoke(optional, for added smokiness)
- 4-6 large Banana Leaves(wilted or thawed, for wrapping)
- 12 pieces Slider Buns
- 2 cups Coleslaw(for topping)
- 1/2 cup BBQ Sauce(optional, for mixing with pork)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). If using a slow cooker, set to low.
💡 Tip: Low and slow cooking is key for tender, shreddable pork. - 2
Rub the pork shoulder generously with Hawaiian sea salt. If using liquid smoke, drizzle it over the pork.
💡 Tip: Ensure the salt penetrates the meat for flavor. - 3
Lay out the banana leaves, overlapping them to create a large surface. Place the seasoned pork shoulder in the center. Wrap the pork tightly in the banana leaves, securing with kitchen twine if necessary.
💡 Tip: Wilt banana leaves by briefly passing them over a flame or dipping in hot water to make them pliable. - 4
Place the wrapped pork in a roasting pan (if using oven) or directly into the slow cooker. Add about 1/2 inch of water to the bottom of the roasting pan.
💡 Tip: The steam from the water helps keep the pork moist. - 5
Cook in the oven for 6-8 hours, or in the slow cooker on low for 8-10 hours, until the pork is extremely tender and easily shreds with a fork.
💡 Tip: Internal temperature should reach at least 195°F (90°C). - 6
Remove the pork from the cooking vessel. Carefully unwrap the banana leaves. Shred the pork using two forks, discarding any excess fat. If desired, mix the shredded pork with a little BBQ sauce.
💡 Tip: Save some of the cooking liquid to moisten the shredded pork. - 7
Serve the Kalua pig on slider buns, topped with coleslaw. You can lightly toast the buns if preferred.
💡 Tip: A touch of pickled red onion or a drizzle of sriracha mayo can add extra flavor.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Authentic Kalua Pig is cooked in an imu, but this oven/slow cooker method approximates the flavor and texture.
- ✓Don't skip the Hawaiian sea salt; it has a distinct mineral flavor.
- ✓Banana leaves impart a subtle, earthy aroma to the pork.
🔄 Variations
- Serve the Kalua pig as a main dish with rice and macaroni salad.
- Add a splash of pineapple juice to the shredded pork for a hint of sweetness.
- For a vegetarian option, use jackfruit prepared in a similar smoky, shredded style.