Name: Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian Pulled Pork Recipe for Parties
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 h
Total time: 10 h 10 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 3 lb pork shoulder (thick fat trimmed); 1 tbsp salt; 1 tbsp liquid smoke

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Introduction

Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian pulled pork is a game-changer for any gathering. With just three simple ingredients, this dish is freezer-friendly and perfect for sliders or rice bowls. The smoky flavor combined with the tenderness of the pork makes it an irresistible choice for family dinners or parties. Whether you’re hosting a game day or a casual get-together, this recipe will surely impress your guests and satisfy their taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian

This Hawaiian Style Slow Cooker Recipe offers numerous benefits that make it a must-try. First, it requires minimal prep time, allowing you to focus on other party preparations. Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both adults and kids alike. Third, the slow cooker does all the work, ensuring tender and juicy meat without constant supervision. Additionally, this dish fits well into a Paleo diet, making it a healthy option. It’s also freezer-friendly, which means you can prepare a batch ahead of time. Lastly, it pairs beautifully with various sides, making it a versatile addition to your menu.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian

Gather these items:

3 lb pork shoulder (thick fat trimmed)
1 tbsp salt
1 tbsp liquid smoke

How to Make Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian Step-by-Step

Step 1: Trim the thickest pieces of fat from the pork shoulder. In a small bowl, mix the salt and liquid smoke into a paste. Rub the paste evenly over all sides of the pork. Place the seasoned pork into a large freezer-safe bag. Seal, flatten, label with cooking instructions, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Step 2: Remove the freezer meal from the freezer and thaw fully in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking.
Step 3: Place the thawed pork shoulder into the slow cooker or Instant Pot insert, laying it flat for even cooking. No additional liquid is required. The pork will release its own juices during slow cooking. However, if your cooker runs hot or the pork is very lean, add up to 1/4 cup water.
Step 4: Cook: Traditional slow cooker: Cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours until the pork is fall-apart tender. Instant Pot slow cook function: Set to HIGH on Slow Cook, fit the glass lid, and cook for 10 to 12 hours.
Step 5: Before shredding, check for doneness. The pork should shred easily with minimal effort.
Step 6: Remove the pork from the cooker and discard excess fat if desired. Shred using two forks or a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment on low speed. Spoon a small amount of cooking liquid back over the shredded pork to keep it juicy.
Step 7: Serve immediately or keep warm until ready to eat. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian

Keep these in mind:

Trim excess fat for better flavor and texture.
Monitor the cooking time based on your slow cooker model; some cook faster than others.
Using a stand mixer can speed up the shredding process.
Serve with Slow Cooker Hawaiian BBQ sauce for an extra kick.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian

There are many delicious ways to enjoy this dish:

Serve on slider buns with coleslaw for a classic twist.
Pair with rice for a hearty meal.
Add to tacos with fresh toppings for a fun, casual dining experience.

Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian Pulled Pork Recipe for Parties - Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian - main visual representation

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For freezing, portion the pulled pork into freezer bags and lay flat to freeze. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove. This method makes it easy to have easy smoky Hawaiian recipes ready for busy nights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian?

The secret lies in the quality of the pork shoulder and the even distribution of the seasoning. A good cut of meat will yield the best flavor and texture. Additionally, allowing the pork to rest after cooking helps retain its juices.

Can I make Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pork shoulder up to three months in advance and freeze it as a meal prep option. Just thaw and cook when you’re ready, making it a great addition to your meal planning.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian?

To avoid mistakes, ensure that you’re not overcooking the meat, as this can lead to dryness. Also, avoid adding too much liquid, as the pork will release its own juices. Following the cooking time is essential for achieving that tender, pull-apart texture.

Variations of Slow Cooker Smoky Hawaiian You Can Try

If you want to mix things up, here are a few variations to consider:

For a spicy kick, add jalapeños to the slow cooker.
Substitute pork with Smoky Hawaiian Beef Brisket for a different flavor profile.
Try a Crockpot Smoky Hawaiian Chicken version for a lighter option.
Incorporate pineapple chunks for that traditional sweet and smoky Hawaiian dish.