Kalua pork, a traditional Hawaiian dish, has become a global culinary sensation. This slow-cooked pork shoulder, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed to perfection, is a staple at Hawaiian luaus and gatherings. But why limit its deliciousness to just one cultural tradition? With the rise of fusion cuisine and creative cooking, Kalua pork has been reinvented in countless ways, from tacos to sushi rolls. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering Kalua pork recipes that will satisfy your cravings and inspire your next dinner party or special occasion.
From classic Hawaiian dishes to innovative twists and international fusions, these recipes showcase the versatility of Kalua pork and its ability to pair with a wide range of flavors and cuisines. Whether you’re a foodie looking for new inspiration or a Hawaiian native seeking comfort food from home, this list has something for everyone. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of Kalua pork!
Traditional Hawaiian Kalua Pork
Experience the rich flavors of Hawaii with this classic Kalua pork recipe, slow-cooked in an underground oven to tender perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder or butt
– 1/4 cup sea salt
– 1/4 cup black coffee grounds
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat your kalua oven or a traditional imu (underground oven) to 200°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sea salt, coffee grounds, brown sugar, garlic, oregano, and paprika.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in the preheated kalua oven or imu, cover with banana leaves or foil, and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Slow Cooker Kalua Pork with Cabbage
This mouthwatering slow cooker recipe combines the rich flavors of kalua pork with the crunch and sweetness of cabbage. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke (optional)
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the pork shoulder with salt, pepper, and liquid smoke (if using).
2. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the pork.
3. Place the chopped cabbage in a separate layer at the bottom of the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in soy sauce and brown sugar.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional cabbage if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Kalua Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa
Transport yourself to the islands with this mouth-watering fusion of flavors! Kalua pork, slow-cooked in a tangy mixture of soy sauce and pineapple juice, is wrapped in crispy taco shells and topped with fresh pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Pineapple Salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream
Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a slow cooker, combine pork shoulder, soy sauce, brown sugar, pineapple juice, and cumin. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Shred the cooked pork with two forks.
4. Fry taco shells in vegetable oil until crispy.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning Kalua pork onto a shell, topping with pineapple salsa, and adding desired toppings.
Cook Time: 4-6 hours (slow cooker) + 10 minutes frying tortillas
Kalua Pork Sliders with Hawaiian Rolls
Experience the flavors of Hawaii with these tender and juicy Kalua pork sliders served on soft, sweet Hawaiian rolls. Perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless Kalua pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 4 Hawaiian rolls
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together liquid smoke, soy sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Place the Kalua pork shoulder in a large ziplock bag or airtight container. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s fully coated.
4. Seal the bag or cover the container with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the pork from the marinade and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
6. Split the Hawaiian rolls in half and toast lightly.
7. Assemble sliders by spooning Kalua pork onto each roll half, garnishing with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (marinating time not included)
Kalua Pork Fried Rice
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Kalua pork with the comfort of fried rice, making it a unique and satisfying meal. Perfect for using up leftover Kalua pork, this dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Kalua pork, shredded
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir in Kalua pork, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kalua Pork Nachos with Cheese and Jalapeños
Elevate your nacho game with the rich flavors of Kalua pork, melted cheese, and spicy jalapeños. This recipe combines the comfort of a classic nacho dish with the bold taste of Hawaiian-style BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked Kalua pork (slow-cooked in an underground oven or Instant Pot)
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Spread Kalua pork evenly over the chips.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the pork.
5. Add sliced jalapeños on top of the cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Kalua Pork Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
A classic Hawaiian-inspired dish with a twist! This recipe combines the tender flavors of Kalua pork with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, making for a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup cooked Kalua pork (see note)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream or Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce sweet potatoes several times with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. Split sweet potatoes open lengthwise and fluff flesh with a fork.
4. Spoon Kalua pork mixture over the sweet potato flesh, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Sprinkle cilantro and lime juice on top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve warm, topped with sour cream or Greek yogurt and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes for sweet potatoes, plus prep time
Kalua Pork and Pineapple Pizza
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of Hawaiian and Italian cuisine with this unique pizza recipe. Slow-cooked Kalua pork, caramelized pineapple, and melted mozzarella come together for a flavorful and indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup Kalua pork, shredded
– 1/2 cup pineapple rings, caramelized
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread the Kalua pork evenly over the crust, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with caramelized pineapple rings and mozzarella cheese.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kalua Pork Egg Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce
Discover the perfect fusion of Hawaiian and Asian flavors with these crispy Kalua pork egg rolls served with a sweet and spicy chili sauce. A unique twist on traditional egg rolls, this recipe is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of egg roll wrappers (usually found in the produce section or international aisle)
– 1/2 cup of Kalua pork (canned or homemade), shredded
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sweet Chili Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet with about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together shredded Kalua pork, chopped scallions, and cilantro.
3. Lay an egg roll wrapper flat and place about 1 tablespoon of the Kalua pork mixture in the center.
4. Brush edges with soy sauce and sesame oil, then fold the wrapper into a tight cylinder shape.
5. Fry the egg rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve warm with Sweet Chili Sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including prep time)
Kalua Pork Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Hawaiian Kalua pork with the comforting warmth of Japanese ramen, topped with soft-boiled eggs for added creaminess. Get ready to savor a unique fusion dish that will become your new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder
– 1 cup liquid smoke
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 8 oz ramen noodles
– 2 soft-boiled eggs
– Green onions, sliced (optional)
– Sesame seeds, toasted (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Mix pork shoulder with liquid smoke, brown sugar, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.
3. Place pork in a slow cooker or Dutch oven, cover, and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
4. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
5. Slice cooked pork into thin strips.
6. Assemble bowls by placing noodles, pork, and soft-boiled eggs in each bowl.
7. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 hours or overnight (for slow cooker), 4-5 minutes for ramen noodles
Kalua Pork Quesadillas with Avocado Crema
Experience the rich flavors of Hawaii in a twist on traditional quesadillas. Slow-cooked Kalua pork and melted cheese are paired with creamy avocado crema for a taste sensation.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Kalua pork, shredded
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
3. Add about 1/4 cup of Kalua pork on half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Avocado Crema:
1. In a bowl, combine diced avocado, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until smooth.
Serve: Quesadillas warm with Avocado Crema on top. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kalua Pork Hash with Fried Eggs
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Kalua pork with the crunch of a hash and the creaminess of fried eggs, making for a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Kalua pork, shredded
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Cooking oil or butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in shredded Kalua pork, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Make 4 wells in the hash mixture and crack an egg into each well.
6. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes or until eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Kalua Pork Banh Mi Sandwich
Experience the fusion of traditional Vietnamese flavors with the rich taste of Hawaiian-style slow-cooked pork in this unique banh mi sandwich recipe. Kalua pork’s tender, smoky goodness is paired with crisp pickled carrots and daikon, fresh cilantro, and creamy mayonnaise on a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 4-6 hours of slow cooking time (or overnight)
– 4-6 Vietnamese-style banh mi breads
– Pickled carrots and daikon (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh cilantro leaves
– Mayonnaise
– Sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, liquid smoke, brown sugar, and salt. Cover and slow cook for 4-6 hours or overnight.
3. Slice the cooked pork into thin strips.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mayonnaise on each baguette half, then adding pickled carrots and daikon, sliced pork, cilantro leaves, and a sprinkle of green onions.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-6 hours (or overnight) for Kalua pork + assembly time
Kalua Pork Poutine with Gravy and Cheese Curds
Experience the ultimate comfort food fusion by combining tender Kalua pork, crispy cheese curds, and rich gravy atop a bed of fluffy poutine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Kalua pork (canned or homemade)
– 2 cups poutine potatoes
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare poutine potatoes according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth. Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer; reduce heat to low.
4. Slice Kalua pork into 1/4-inch thick pieces.
5. Assemble poutine by placing cooked potatoes in a serving dish, topping with sliced pork, and sprinkling grated cheese.
6. Pour warm gravy over the top and serve immediately.
Cooking Time:
– Poutine potatoes: 15-20 minutes
– Gravy: 10-12 minutes
– Assembly and serving: 5 minutes
Kalua Pork Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the tender, smoky flavor of Kalua pork with the creamy richness of macaroni and cheese. The result is a unique and satisfying comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups Kalua pork (canned or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add Kalua pork and stir until heated through.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, Kalua pork mixture, and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Kalua Pork Stuffed Bell Peppers
This Hawaiian-inspired recipe combines the rich flavors of Kalua pork with the sweetness of bell peppers, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked Kalua pork (or pulled pork)
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked Kalua pork, white rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the pork mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Kalua Pork and Shrimp Lumpia
Experience the rich flavors of Hawaiian cuisine with this mouthwatering Kalua pork and shrimp lumpia recipe! These crispy and savory pastries are filled with tender chunks of slow-cooked Kalua pork and succulent shrimp, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Kalua pork (slow-cooked in an underground oven), shredded
– 1/2 cup peeled and deveined shrimp
– 1 package lumpia wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a deep fryer or a large skillet with at least 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, mix together Kalua pork and shrimp.
3. Place a lumpia wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the meat mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Fry lumpia in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to fry all the lumpia.
Kalua Pork Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Taro
A twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this Hawaiian-inspired dish combines tender Kalua pork with creamy mashed taro and crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a unique comfort food dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Kalua pork (canned or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup mashed taro
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Stir in mixed vegetables; cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Kalua pork; stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mashed taro, followed by breadcrumbs and cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Kalua Pork Pancakes with Coconut Syrup
Experience the flavors of Hawaii with this unique pancake recipe, featuring tender Kalua pork and sweet coconut syrup. Perfect for a special brunch or weekend breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pancake mix
– 1/2 cup Kalua pork (canned or homemade), shredded
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– Coconut syrup (recipe below)
– Fresh pineapple slices and chopped macadamia nuts for garnish (optional)
Coconut Syrup:
– 1 cup coconut cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together pancake mix, egg, milk, and melted butter.
2. Add shredded Kalua pork to the batter and stir until combined.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface.
5. Flip pancakes and cook for an additional 1 minute.
6. Serve with warm coconut syrup drizzled on top. Garnish with fresh pineapple slices and chopped macadamia nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20 minutes (including syrup preparation).
Kalua Pork Sushi Rolls with Spicy Mayo
Transform traditional sushi rolls into a Hawaiian-inspired treat by filling them with slow-cooked Kalua pork, crunchy vegetables, and creamy spicy mayo. This unique fusion is sure to delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Kalua pork (see note)
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy mayo (see below)
Spicy Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Kalua pork according to package instructions.
2. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
3. Cut the avocado and cucumber into thin slices.
4. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of cooked Japanese rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place 1/2 cup of Kalua pork along the center of the rice.
6. Top with sliced avocado and cucumber.
7. Roll the sushi using your fingers or a bamboo mat, applying gentle pressure.
8. Slice into individual pieces.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of traditional Hawaiian cuisine with these 20 mouthwatering Kalua pork recipes. From classic dishes like Traditional Hawaiian Kalua Pork and Slow Cooker Kalua Pork with Cabbage to innovative fusion creations like Kalua Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa and Kalua Pork Pancakes with Coconut Syrup, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re looking for comforting main courses or creative snacks, these recipes will guide you in cooking up delicious meals that are sure to please.