Are you craving a delicious and authentic Hawaiian meal? Look no further! This Kalua pork and cabbage recipe is a true taste of paradise, bringing the flavors of a traditional luau right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and offers a healthy and satisfying meal. Get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the islands!
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless pork shoulder (butt roast)
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Kalua Pork
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
- In a large roasting pan or Dutch oven, place the pork shoulder. Surround it with the onion quarters and smashed garlic cloves.
- In a bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, liquid smoke, ginger, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the mixture over the pork, ensuring it's mostly submerged.
Step 2: Slow Cooking to Perfection
- Cover the roasting pan tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Roast for 3-4 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C).
Step 3: Shredding the Pork
- Carefully remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
- Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bones and excess fat.
- You can reserve some of the cooking liquid for extra moisture if needed.
Step 4: Cooking the Cabbage
- While the pork is resting, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced cabbage and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it's tender-crisp and slightly wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combining and Serving
- Gently stir the shredded pork into the cooked cabbage.
- Serve immediately. This delicious dish is fantastic on its own or served with rice, sweet potatoes, or your favorite Hawaiian side dishes.
Cooking Tips for the Best Kalua Pork and Cabbage
- For a more intense smoky flavor, consider using a smoker instead of an oven.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms, alongside the cabbage.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations on this Delicious Dish
- Pineapple Kalua Pork: Add 1 cup of diced pineapple to the roasting pan along with the pork. The sweetness of the pineapple complements the savory pork beautifully.
- Spicy Kalua Pork: Increase the amount of ginger and add a few slices of fresh chili peppers to the roasting pan for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-30g
This easy recipe for Kalua pork and cabbage provides a healthy and satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The combination of tender, flavorful pork and slightly sweet cabbage creates a dish that is both comforting and exciting. Enjoy this taste of Hawaii in your own home!