Instant Pot® Kalua Pig: A Quick Pulled Pork Delight
A easy pulled pork recipe brings the rich, smoky flavors of traditional Hawaiian kalua pig right to your kitchen in no time. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful gathering with friends and family.
Prep Time20 min
Cook Time2 hr 10 min
Total Time2 hr 30 min
Difficulty
Hard
Better Cooking Tips
Use a good quality pork shoulder for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t skip the liquid in the Instant Pot to ensure the meat stays moist and cooks evenly.
Let the pork rest for a few minutes after cooking before shredding to keep it juicy.
Ingredients
0/3
Why This Dish Is A Crowd Favorite
This recipe brings the rich, smoky flavors of traditional Hawaiian kalua pig in a fraction of the time. Using the Instant Pot makes the pork tender and juicy without hours of slow cooking. It’s perfect for busy days or when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort.
Step 1
Place the pork roast in your Instant Pot or any pressure cooker you have. Sprinkle a good amount of Hawaiian sea salt all over the meat, then poke it a few times with a fork or a knife to help the flavors soak in. Drizzle some liquid smoke over the top for that classic smoky taste. Seal the lid and set the cooker to high pressure for about 2 hours. It might take around 15 to 30 minutes for the pressure to build up.
Step 2
Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally—that usually takes about 15 minutes. When it’s safe, open the lid and take the roast out. You can skim off some of the fat if you want, then use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces in a bowl.
Step 3
If you like, pour the cooking liquid through a fat separator to remove excess grease, then drizzle the flavorful juice over the shredded pork before serving.
87
people cooked this recipe
ByRyan Parker
Ryan shares simple recipes made for everyday cooking and easy family meals.
How To Enjoy This Dish
Serve the pulled pork with steamed white rice and a side of tangy coleslaw for a classic Hawaiian meal. It also works great in tacos, sandwiches, or even on pizza for a fun twist.
Leftover Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the pulled pork in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep it tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of pork instead of pork loin?
Yes, pork shoulder or butt works well and may be even more tender for pulled pork.
How do I know when the pressure is fully released?
The float valve will drop down, indicating it’s safe to open the lid.
Can I add liquid like water or broth to the Instant Pot?
This recipe doesn't require extra liquid since the pork releases moisture, but you can add a small amount if needed.
What if I don’t have Hawaiian sea salt?
You can substitute with kosher salt or regular sea salt, but Hawaiian salt adds a unique flavor.
Is it necessary to use liquid smoke?
Liquid smoke adds authentic smoky flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I double the recipe for a larger batch?
Yes, but make sure your Instant Pot is large enough and adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep shredded pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I reheat the pork without drying it out?
Yes, gently reheat with some reserved cooking liquid to keep it moist.
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