Are Kalua Pork Tacos healthy?

They can be part of a balanced diet. The pork provides a high amount of protein, while the salsa and cabbage offer vitamins and fiber. However, pork shoulder is high in fat, so it's best enjoyed in moderation. You can make it leaner by trimming more fat before cooking and skimming the rendered fat well.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for a slow cooker. Season the pork as directed and place it in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the pork is fall-apart tender.

What if I can't find Hawaiian Red Alaea Salt?

If you can't find Hawaiian salt, you can substitute it with an equal amount of coarse sea salt or kosher salt. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store the leftover pork and salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat the pork in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, or in the microwave, until warmed through. Assemble the tacos fresh before serving.

Can I make the components ahead of time?

Yes. The Kalua pork can be cooked, shredded, and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The pineapple salsa can be made up to 24 hours in advance; its flavor will actually improve as it sits.

Home / Recipes / hawaiian / Kalua Pork Tacos

hawaiianMediumnon vegetariangluten freedairy freenut free

Kalua Pork Tacos

POPULARITY

0.0/5

TASTE SCORE

9/10

Tender, smoky, slow-cooked Kalua pork piled high on warm corn tortillas. Topped with a zesty pineapple salsa and crunchy cabbage, these tacos bring a taste of the Hawaiian islands to your dinner table.

PREP

20m

COOK

210m

SERVES

2 TACOS

762 cal

SERVINGS

INSTRUCTIONS

5 steps. 210 minutes total.

5 STEPS

1
Step 1
- a.Prepare and Season the Pork
- b.Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
- c.Pat the pork shoulder completely dry with paper towels. If there is a thick fat cap, score it in a diamond pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat.
- d.In a small bowl, combine the Hawaiian salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- e.Rub the liquid smoke evenly over the entire surface of the pork. Follow by rubbing the salt mixture thoroughly into the meat, getting it into any crevices.
2
Step 2
- a.Slow Cook the Pork
- b.Place the seasoned pork, fat-side up, into a Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- c.Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- d.Cook for 3.5 to 4 hours. The pork is done when it is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. The internal temperature should reach 200-205°F (93-96°C) for optimal shredding.
3
Step 3
- a.Make the Pineapple Salsa
- b.While the pork is cooking, prepare the salsa. In a medium bowl, combine the diced pineapple, red onion, minced jalapeño, chopped coriander, and lime juice.
- c.Season with 1/4 teaspoon of salt and mix well.
- d.Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
4
Step 4
- a.Shred the Pork
- b.Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Transfer the pork to a large bowl or cutting board.
- c.Let the pork rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring tender meat.
- d.Using two forks, shred the meat. Discard any large pieces of excess fat.
- e.Skim some of the rendered fat from the top of the juices left in the pot. Moisten the shredded pork by tossing it with a few spoonfuls of the remaining flavorful juices.
5
Step 5
- a.Assemble the Tacos
- b.Warm the corn tortillas one at a time in a dry skillet over medium-high heat for about 30 seconds per side, until they are soft and pliable.
- c.To assemble, place a generous portion of the shredded Kalua pork onto each warm tortilla.
- d.Top with a spoonful of the fresh pineapple salsa and a sprinkle of shredded green cabbage for crunch.
- e.Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

PRO TIPS

What to keep in mind.

6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.

1
For the most authentic flavor, use Hawaiian Alaea salt. Its unique mineral content from volcanic clay adds a distinct, earthy taste.
2
Don't trim all the fat from the pork shoulder; it adds essential moisture and flavor as it renders during the long cooking process.
3
The pineapple salsa is best made at least 30 minutes ahead, but its flavor deepens and improves if made 2-3 hours in advance.
4
To add a creamy element, serve the tacos with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of avocado crema.
5
If you don't have a Dutch oven, you can use a roasting pan tightly covered with a double layer of aluminum foil.
6
Leftover Kalua pork is incredibly versatile. Use it for sandwiches, quesadillas, nachos, or simply serve it over rice.

RECIPE VARIATIONS

Adapt it for your goals.

Salsa Swap

Replace the pineapple salsa with a mango salsa or a simple pico de gallo for a different flavor profile.

Slow Cooker Method

Place the seasoned pork in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until tender.

Add a Creamy Sauce

Blend avocado, lime juice, coriander, a little water, and a pinch of salt to create a smooth avocado crema to drizzle over the tacos.

Different Tortillas

While corn tortillas are traditional, feel free to use small flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why this is on our healthy list.

muscle

Excellent Source of Protein

Pork shoulder is rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting immune function, and maintaining overall body strength.

brain

Rich in B Vitamins

Pork is a great source of B vitamins, particularly thiamin (B1), niacin (B3), and B6. These vitamins are crucial for converting food into energy and supporting brain function.

shield

Immunity-Boosting Vitamin C

The fresh pineapple, lime juice, and coriander in the salsa provide a significant amount of Vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system and protect cells from damage.

leaf

Provides Dietary Fiber

The cabbage, pineapple, and onion contribute dietary fiber, which aids in digestion, promotes gut health, and can help you feel full and satisfied.

QUESTIONS?

Frequently asked questions

A serving of two Kalua Pork Tacos contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the fat content of the pork and the size of the tortillas.

PAIRS WELL WITH

Complete meals featuring this recipe

american·25 min·615 cal

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Kalua Pork Tacos

For 4 servings

5 steps. 210 minutes total.

Step 1

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