Escape to the islands without leaving your kitchen! This Instant Pot Hawaiian Pork recipe captures the smoky, savory, and incredibly tender essence of traditional Kalua pig, a luau staple. We’re skipping the underground oven (imu) and using the magic of the pressure cooker to deliver fall-apart pork infused with a simple yet profound smoky flavor. In just over an hour, you’ll have succulent, juicy pulled pork that’s perfect for piling on rice, stuffing into sliders, or enjoying all on its own. Get ready for a taste of paradise!
Ingredients
• 2 lbs pork roast (pork shoulder or butt) / approx. 900g
• 1 tbsp olive oil / 15ml
• 2 tbsp coconut aminos / 30ml
• 2 tbsp sweetener (like monk fruit or brown sugar substitute) / 30g
• 2 tbsp liquid smoke / 30ml
• 1/2 cup water / 120ml
• 1 tbsp coarse sea salt (Hawaiian alaea salt preferred) / 15g
Instructions
1. Directions
2. Set your Instant Pot to the SAUTE function and add the olive oil to heat.
3. Season the pork roast generously with sea salt. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the pork in the pot and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove the pork and set it aside on a plate.
4. Pour the water into the hot pot to deglaze, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Turn off the SAUTE function.
5. Whisk in the coconut aminos, sweetener, and liquid smoke until fully combined.
6. Return the seared pork roast to the pot. Secure the lid and ensure the steam release valve is set to ‘Sealing’.
7. Select the MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK setting and cook on HIGH pressure for 60 minutes.
8. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 20 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
9. Carefully open the lid. The pork will be incredibly tender. Use two forks to shred the meat directly in the pot, allowing it to soak up all the flavorful juices.
10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
• Per Serving: Calories 450 | Total Fats 24g | Net Carbs 1g | Protein 55g | Fiber: 0g
Pro Tips
• For the most tender and juicy results, use a pork shoulder (also known as pork butt or Boston butt). The fat content is key to a succulent final product.
• For authentic crispy bits, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until the edges are browned and crisp before serving.
• Serve this Hawaiian pork traditionally with a side of white rice and macaroni salad, or use it for tacos, sliders, or loaded nachos for a fun twist.
• If you can find it, use Hawaiian alaea sea salt. The red clay in the salt lends a more authentic, earthy flavor to the dish.
FAQ
Q: What is the best cut of pork for this recipe
A: For the most tender and juicy results, use a pork shoulder, also known as pork butt or Boston butt. Its fat content is key for a succulent final product.
Q: How can I make this Hawaiian pork crispy
A: To get authentic crispy bits, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes until the edges are browned and crisp before serving.
Q: How long does it take to cook Hawaiian pork in the Instant Pot
A: The recipe requires a 60-minute high-pressure cook time, followed by a natural pressure release of at least 20 minutes.
Q: What should I serve with Instant Pot Hawaiian Pork
A: You can serve it traditionally with white rice and macaroni salad, or use it for tacos, sliders, and loaded nachos for a fun twist.
