From hawaii to your home: master the art of oven kalua pork for unforgettable gatherings

Embark on a culinary adventure with our oven kalua pork recipe, a traditional Hawaiian dish that will tantalize your taste buds. This slow-cooked masterpiece is a staple of Hawaiian cuisine, and with our detailed instructions, you can recreate this mouthwatering dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 (5-pound) pork shoulder, bone-in
• 2 tablespoons Hawaiian salt
• 1 tablespoon liquid smoke
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup banana leaves (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork

1. Remove the pork shoulder from the refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
2. Season the pork generously with Hawaiian salt, rubbing it into all sides.
3. In a large bowl, combine the liquid smoke and water. Inject the pork with the mixture using a meat injector.

2. Create the Banana Leaf Wrapper

1. If using fresh banana leaves, rinse and wipe them clean. If using frozen leaves, thaw them at room temperature.
2. Cut 4 large pieces of banana leaves, approximately 12 inches square.
3. Layer the banana leaves on top of each other, creating a cross shape.

3. Wrap the Pork

1. Place the pork shoulder in the center of the banana leaf wrapper.
2. Fold the banana leaves up around the pork, overlapping them to form a tight seal.
3. Tie the wrapper securely with butcher’s twine.

4. Roast the Pork

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Place the wrapped pork in a large roasting pan.
3. Roast for 10-12 hours, or until the pork is fall-off-the-bone tender.

5. Prepare the Sauce

1. While the pork is roasting, prepare the sauce.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the coconut oil, brown sugar, and soy sauce.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

6. Shred the Pork

1. Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes.
2. Unwrap the banana leaves and shred the pork using two forks.

7. Serve the Oven Kalua Pork

1. Place the shredded pork on a serving platter.
2. Brush the pork with the prepared sauce.
3. Serve with traditional Hawaiian sides such as poi, haupia, and lomi lomi salmon.

Tips for Success

• For a more authentic flavor, use Hawaiian salt, which is made from evaporated seawater.
• If you don’t have access to banana leaves, you can wrap the pork in aluminum foil.
• Roast the pork until it reaches an internal temperature of 205°F (96°C) for maximum tenderness.
• Allow the pork to rest before shredding to ensure it retains its juices.

Variations

• Add a teaspoon of chopped roasted garlic to the sauce for extra flavor.
• Substitute the brown sugar with molasses for a richer sweetness.
• Marinate the pork in a mixture of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger overnight for a tangy twist.

Storing and Reheating

• Store leftover oven kalua pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, place the pork in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through.

The Hawaiian Spirit in a Dish

Oven kalua pork is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Hawaiian culture and tradition. The slow cooking process, the fragrant banana leaves, and the rich flavors embody the spirit of aloha. Whether you’re hosting a luau or simply want to indulge in a taste of the islands, this recipe will transport you to the heart of Hawaii.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Can I use a boneless pork shoulder?

Yes, you can use a boneless pork shoulder, but it may cook slightly faster than a bone-in shoulder.

2. How can I smoke the pork instead of roasting it?

You can smoke the pork using a smoker or a gas grill with a smoker box. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for smoking times and temperatures.

3. What side dishes can I serve with oven kalua pork?

Traditional Hawaiian sides such as poi, haupia, and lomi lomi salmon pair well with oven kalua pork. You can also serve it with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or a green salad.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the oven kalua pork up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.