Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of Hawaii with this slow-cooked Kalua Pork with Cabbage recipe, a staple at traditional Hawaiian luaus. Thanks to liquid smoke and a combination of soy and Worcestershire sauce, this dish masterfully replicates the distinct smoky taste of pork cooked in an underground oven.
Not only does it promise a tender, fall-apart texture, but it also offers a good source of protein and vitamin C, thanks to the addition of cabbage. This easy-to-prepare meal is perfect for capturing the essence of Hawaiian festivities right in your home kitchen.
The Roots of Kalua Pork
Kalua Pork comes from the Hawaiian tradition of cooking a whole pig in an underground oven called an imu.1 This method gives the meat a smoky flavor that is hard to replicate at home.
However, with the use of liquid smoke and slow cooking, it’s possible to mimic this traditional flavor. This dish is celebrated for its tender, fall-off-the-bone meat, which pairs perfectly with the sweetness of cabbage, making it a comforting meal for any occasion.
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Health & Nutrition
Kalua Pork, a flavorful centerpiece of many Hawaiian meals, offers more than just a taste of island tradition—it also brings nutritional benefits to the table, particularly when paired with cabbage. This dish is an excellent source of high-quality pork protein, which is crucial for muscle maintenance and overall bodily function.
Cabbage, the other key ingredient, is not only versatile but also a nutritional powerhouse. It is loaded with vitamins, including Vitamin C and Vitamin K, and has a high fiber content, which can aid in digestion and overall gut health.
The fiber in cabbage also helps to promote a feeling of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management. Moreover, it contains antioxidants that are thought to help protect against several diseases, including heart disease and some cancers.2
Combining these two ingredients not only creates a meal with rich, comforting flavors but also one that supports a balanced diet. This dish is particularly fitting for active lifestyles or hotter climates, as the salt content in Kalua Pork can help replenish electrolytes lost through sweating, making it a practical choice in maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance in the body.
The Perfect Pairing
Kalua Pork is traditionally paired with poi or rice, but its smoky, savory flavors allow for diverse culinary explorations. Here are some excellent ways to enjoy this Hawaiian classic:
- Tacos or Wraps: Fill soft tacos or wraps with shredded Kalua Pork and top with a pineapple salsa for a tropical twist.
- Over Rice: Serve it over a bed of jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the flavorful juices.
- With Sweet Potatoes: Accompany with roasted or mashed sweet potatoes for a hearty, nutritious meal.
- Sandwiches: Pile the pork high on Hawaiian sweet rolls and add coleslaw for a delightful sandwich.
- Salads: Shred the pork and toss it into a green salad with a vinaigrette dressing to lighten the meal.
- Noodle Bowls: Combine with noodles, fresh veggies, and a soy-based sauce for an Asian-inspired dish.
Slow Cooker Homestyle Kalua Pork with Cabbage
Ingredients
- 5 lbs bone-in pork shoulder roast
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper ground
- ½ teaspoon ginger ground
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke flavoring
- ½ large head cabbage shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the pork roast by combining kosher salt, black pepper, and ground ginger in a bowl. Rub this mixture evenly over the pork.
- In a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke. Pour this over the pork in the slow cooker.
- Set your slow cooker to low and cook the pork for 10 hours. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the shredded cabbage to the pot to soften.
- Once done, shred the pork and mix with the cooked cabbage. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Source:
- https://luaus.org/luau-terminology-what-is-an-imu/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/284823
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.