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hot_biteEasyHawaiian

Kalua Pork Sliders

Smoky, tender shredded pork on sweet Hawaiian rolls with pineapple slaw

⏱️ Prep: 20min🍳 Cook: 480min⏰ Total: 500min👥 Serves: 24🌡️ hot
✓ dairy-free
⚠️ Contains: 🥚 Egg, 🌾 Gluten

Ingredients

  • 5 lbspork shoulder(bone-in)
  • 2 tbspHawaiian sea salt(or coarse sea salt)
  • 2 tbspliquid smoke(hickory or mesquite)
  • 4banana leaves(optional, for wrapping)
  • 24Hawaiian sweet rolls(King's brand)
  • 2 cupspineapple slaw(shredded cabbage, crushed pineapple, mayo)

📝 Make Ahead

Pork can be made 3 days ahead; refrigerate and reheat in juices. Slaw can be made 1 day ahead. Assemble just before serving.

Instructions

  1. Score pork deeply all over; rub thoroughly with salt and liquid smoke
  2. Wrap in banana leaves if using, then wrap tightly in foil
  3. Place in slow cooker; cook on low 16-20 hours or until falling apart
  4. Shred meat with two forks, discarding bone and excess fat
  5. Mix shredded pork with cooking juices to keep moist
  6. Serve on split Hawaiian rolls topped with pineapple slaw

💡 Pro Tips

Low and slow is key - don't rush the pork. Hawaiian sea salt (alaea) adds authentic flavor but kosher salt works. The liquid smoke is essential for that imu-cooked taste. King's Hawaiian rolls are traditional for sliders.

📜 History

Kalua pig is the centerpiece of traditional Hawaiian luaus, cooked in an underground imu oven with hot rocks. The slow-cooker version captures the tender, smoky essence using liquid smoke. The dish represents the heart of Hawaiian celebration cuisine.

🍸 Pairs Well With

Also pairs well with:

mai-tairum-punchbeerpina-colada