Flavorful shredded pork is always a crowd favorite. Where I live, shreddedpork is nearly always BBQ pulled pork, which is delicious. However, there are other options out there. For a change of pace, try this Kalua pork inspired by Hawaiian luaus. The smoked salt and bacon give the dish a lightly smoked flavor. I love taking the extra step to crisp up the edges of the meat. but it also tastes delicious if you skip this step.
Kalua Pork
Simple, smoky pork from your Instant Pot or slow cooker!
Servings: 8
Calories: 475kcal
Ingredients
- 4 ounces bacon , chopped(uncured and sugar free for AIP)
- 2 tsp kiawe smoked salt (or other smoked salt or kosher salt)
- 4 cloves garlic , minced
- 1 tbsp coconut vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
- 3.5 pounds boneless pork shoulder (cut into two-inch cubes)
- 4 tbsp lard , melted (or other fat of choice)
Instant Pot Only
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Combine the bacon, smoked salt, garlic, pork shoulder, and 2 tbsp of lard in the insert of your Instant Pot or slow cooker. Add the vinegar and stir to combine.
Slow Cooker Instructions
- Cook the pork mixture over low heat for 10 hours or until very tender. Remove the pork with a slotted spoon.
- Heat the remaining 2 tbsp of lard in a large cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Place the pork cubes in the hot lard and cook, stirring frequently, until brown and crisp on the edges. Work in batches if necessary.
- Shred the pork with two forks. Moisten with some of the juices from the slow cooker if desired. Serve.
Instant Pot Instructions
- Add 1 cup water to the instant pot with the pork. Seal lid and set to cook for 90 minutes at high pressure. Allow a natural pressure release. The meat should be very tender at this point. If it isn’t, cook for another 5-10 minutes. Remove the pork with a slotted spoon
- Heat the remaining 2 tbsp of lard in a large cast iron or nonstick skillet over medium high heat. Place the pork cubes in the hot lard and cook, stirring frequently, until brown and crisp on the edges. Work in batches if necessary.
- Shred the pork with two forks. Moisten with some of the juices from the slow cooker if desired. Serve.
Nutrition
Calories: 475kcal | Carbohydrates: 0.5g | Protein: 44g | Fat: 33g