Maebelle's Hawaiian Style Kalua Pork
Indulge in the rich, smoky flavors of Maebelle's Hawaiian Style Kalua Pork, a fabulous dish that transforms a simple pork butt into a succulent centerpiece for any gathering. Inspired by the traditional Hawaiian luau, this recipe is perfect for parties, potlucks, or a family dinner. The secret lies in the aromatic ti or banana leaves that wrap the pork, locking in moisture and infusing it with a delightful flavor. Once baked to perfection, the pork is easily shredded and mixed with its savory juices, making it irresistible. Whether served with rice, coleslaw, or in tacos, this dish will have your guests clamoring for more!
15
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pork Butt
5-8 lbs (None)
Hawaiian Salt or Kosher Salt
6 tablespoons (Adjust according to taste)
Liquid Smoke
10 tablespoons (None)
Ti Leaves or Banana Leaves
6 (Fresh or thawed if frozen)
Aluminum Foil
1 roll (For wrapping)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).
2
Using a sharp knife, make several slits in the pork butt to help the flavors penetrate deeper.
3
Rub the salt generously over the meat, ensuring to get into the slits for maximum flavor.
4
Drizzle liquid smoke over the pork, evenly covering the surface. Massage it into the meat.
5
Lay the ti or banana leaves flat and place the seasoned pork in the center. Wrap the leaves securely around the pork to encase it.
6
Wrap the entire package tightly in aluminum foil to seal in moisture and flavors.
7
Place a small rack in a baking pan and set the wrapped pork on the rack.
8
Reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 4 hours.
9
Once cooked, carefully unwrap the foil and leaves (be cautious of hot steam).
10
Shred the pork using two forks and mix in the juices from the baking pan to taste.
11
Serve hot and enjoy the Hawaiian flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maebelle's Hawaiian Style Kalua Pork?
It is a smoky, succulent dish that transforms a simple pork butt into a centerpiece inspired by a traditional Hawaiian luau.
What cut of meat is used for this recipe?
This recipe requires 5-8 lbs of Pork Butt.
What kind of salt should I use?
The recipe recommends 6 tablespoons of Hawaiian Salt or Kosher Salt.
How much liquid smoke is needed?
You will need 10 tablespoons of liquid smoke to achieve the smoky flavor.
Why are ti or banana leaves used?
The leaves wrap the pork to lock in moisture and infuse the meat with a delightful aromatic flavor.
How many ti or banana leaves do I need?
The recipe calls for 6 fresh or thawed frozen leaves.
What is the initial preheat temperature for the oven?
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) before starting.
At what temperature is the pork baked?
Reduce the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) once the pork is inside.
How long does the Kalua Pork need to cook?
The pork should bake for 4 hours.
Why should I make slits in the pork butt?
Making slits helps the salt and liquid smoke flavors penetrate deeper into the meat.
How do I prepare the pork with salt?
Rub the salt generously over the meat, making sure to get it into the slits for maximum flavor.
How is the liquid smoke applied?
Drizzle the liquid smoke evenly over the pork and massage it into the meat.
What is the wrapping process for the pork?
Wrap the pork securely in ti or banana leaves, then wrap the entire package tightly in aluminum foil.
What equipment is needed for baking the pork?
You will need a baking pan and a small rack to place the wrapped pork on.
What should I do after the pork is cooked?
Carefully unwrap the foil and leaves, then shred the pork using two forks.
Should I use the juices from the baking pan?
Yes, mix the juices from the baking pan into the shredded pork to taste for added flavor.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe makes approximately 15 servings.
What category of meal is this?
This is categorized as a One Dish Meal.
What are some suggested sides for Kalua Pork?
It can be served with rice, coleslaw, or used in tacos.
Is this recipe good for parties?
Yes, it is ideal for parties, potlucks, or family dinners due to its large yield and rich flavor.
Can I use frozen banana leaves?
Yes, frozen leaves can be used as long as they are thawed first.
What is the main flavor profile of this dish?
The dish is known for its rich, smoky flavors inspired by a Hawaiian luau.
How much aluminum foil is required?
The recipe suggests having 1 roll of aluminum foil ready for wrapping.
What should I be careful of when opening the foil?
Be very cautious of hot steam when unwrapping the pork.
Can the salt amount be changed?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of Hawaiian or Kosher salt according to your taste.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include kalua pork, hawaiian recipe, pork butt, luau, and comfort food.
Is there nutritional information available?
No, nutritional values like calories, fat, and carbohydrates are not specified in this recipe.
Does the recipe specify a preparation for the salt?
The salt preparation is to adjust according to taste.
What is the secret to keeping the pork succulent?
Wrapping the meat in leaves and foil locks in moisture while it bakes.
Should the pork be served hot or cold?
The recipe recommends serving the pork hot.