Get ready to transport your taste buds to the sunny shores of Hawaii with this mouthwatering Hawaiian Luau Slow Cooker Pork recipe! Imagine tender, juicy pork infused with the sweet and savory flavors of pineapple, soy sauce, and a hint of ginger, all effortlessly cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Whether you're hosting a backyard luau or simply craving a tropical escape, this dish promises to be the star of your dinner table. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a feast that will have everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to bring a taste of paradise to your home!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork butt
- 1 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 1 onion, sliced
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the pork by trimming any excess fat from the pork butt, leaving a thin layer for flavor and moisture.
- In a mixing bowl, combine pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Whisk thoroughly to create a marinade.
- Place sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker to create a flavorful base for the pork.
- Put the pork butt on top of the onions, fat side up, to help keep the meat moist during cooking.
- Pour the prepared marinade evenly over the pork, ensuring it covers most of the meat.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 8 hours, allowing the pork to become tender and absorb the Hawaiian-inspired flavors.
- After 8 hours, carefully remove the pork and place on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the meat, discarding any large pieces of fat.
- Optional: For crispy edges, transfer shredded pork to a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes.
- Strain the cooking liquid and reserve some for moistening the meat if needed.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Ideal with rice or in Hawaiian-style sliders.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Opt for a pork butt (also known as pork shoulder) for the best results. This cut has enough fat to keep the meat moist and flavorful during the long cooking process.
- Marinate for Flavor: If you have time, marinate the pork in the pineapple juice mixture overnight in the refrigerator. This will deepen the flavors and make the meat even more delicious.
- Layering is Key: Always place the sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. This not only adds flavor but also prevents the pork from sticking to the bottom.
- Don’t Rush the Cooking: Cooking on low for 8 hours is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Resist the urge to crank up the heat; patience pays off!
- Shredding Tips: Use two forks to shred the pork while it’s still warm for easier handling. If you want some crispy edges, broil the shredded pork for a few minutes after cooking.
- Serve with Style: This pork is incredibly versatile! Serve it over rice, in Hawaiian-style sliders, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Save the Juices: Strain and reserve the cooking liquid; it’s packed with flavor and can be used to moisten the shredded pork or as a sauce for serving.With these tips in mind, you're all set to create a delicious Hawaiian feast that will impress family and friends alike!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 372kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 31g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 100mg
