Kalua Pork Tacos
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.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 210 minutes total.
- 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.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, use Hawaiian Alaea salt. Its unique mineral content from volcanic clay adds a distinct, earthy taste.
- 2Don't trim all the fat from the pork shoulder; it adds essential moisture and flavor as it renders during the long cooking process.
- 3The pineapple salsa is best made at least 30 minutes ahead, but its flavor deepens and improves if made 2-3 hours in advance.
- 4To add a creamy element, serve the tacos with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of avocado crema.
- 5If you don't have a Dutch oven, you can use a roasting pan tightly covered with a double layer of aluminum foil.
- 6Leftover Kalua pork is incredibly versatile. Use it for sandwiches, quesadillas, nachos, or simply serve it over rice.
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 MethodSlow 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 SauceAdd 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 TortillasDifferent Tortillas
While corn tortillas are traditional, feel free to use small flour tortillas or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Why this is on our healthy list.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
