Hawaiian Kalua Pork (Instant Pot)
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
3 mins
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Cook Time
1 hr 20 mins
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Active Time
10 mins
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Total Time
1 hr 33 mins
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Servings
4 people
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Calories
359 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Hawaiian Kalua Pork (Instant Pot)
Description
This recipe mimics the traditional Hawaiian Kalua Pork by first browning a pork roast on both sides in an Instant Pot, which develops a flavorful crust. Then liquid smoke, water, soy sauce, brown sugar, and kosher salt are combined in the pot, and the pork is returned to simmer and tenderize under high pressure.
After a 60-minute pressure cook and a natural release period, the pork becomes tender enough to shred easily with forks. The resulting meat is infused with smoky, slightly sweet seasoning from the liquid smoke and brown sugar balanced by the umami of soy sauce and salt.
This dish suits serving alongside steamed rice and can be made conveniently using the Instant Pot to reduce cooking time while achieving the soft, shreddable texture associated with traditional Kalua pork.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon neutral cooking oil generic cooking oil
- 2 lbs (1kg) pork roast
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke Wright's Hickory brand
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Select the Browning setting and add oil to the cooking pot. When it's hot, brown the pork on both sides, about 3 minutes per side. Remove to a platter once browned.
- Turn off the pressure cooker and add the water, liquid smoke, soy sauce, and brown sugar to the cooking pot. Return the pork and its juices to the pot. Sprinkle the salt over the top of the pork.
- Select High Pressure and set the timer for 60 minutes. When it beeps, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 20 minutes. Once the valve drops, carefully remove the lid.
- Remove the meat from the pressure cooker and shred it with two forks. Serve immediately with steamed rice.
Notes
- Use liquid smoke (Wright's Hickory brand recommended) to replicate authentic smoky flavor without an outdoor smoker.
- Browning the pork before pressure cooking enhances flavor and texture of the finished dish.
- Allowing natural pressure release preserves moisture and tenderness in the pork.
- Serve with steamed rice for a classic Hawaiian meal.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4people
Amount Per Serving
Calories 359 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 4people | |
| Calories | 359kcal | 18% |
| Carbohydrates | 6g | 2% |
| Protein | 52g | 104% |
| Fat | 13g | 20% |
| Saturated Fat | 3g | 15% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Trans Fat | 0.01g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 143mg | 48% |
| Sodium | 1506mg | 63% |
| Potassium | 875mg | 19% |
| Fiber | 0.1g | 0% |
| Sugar | 6g | 12% |
| Calcium | 20mg | 2% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.6
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