Uncle Jim's Kalua Pork

My nephew recently shared a recipe with me that he and a few friends came up with. Kalua Pork. Most people think it is Kahlua (the liqueur) Pork. This is false. Kalua is a Hawaiian word meaning "to cook in an underground oven" My nephew has used this recipe for many parties and wedding receptions. After losing a coin toss, it's named after his friend and co-creator, Jim. But to me, it will always be known as My Nephew Mike's Favorite Pork.
In his own words words, I give you his recipe!

Kalua Pork

Place 5 to 10 pounds (or more...depending on your guest count!) of pork butt or pork shoulder into a large, deep roasting pan...'fatty' side up.



Pour 3/4 of a can of pineapple juice over the pork.
Pour 3 ounces of any type liquid smoke over the pork.


Cover the entire top of the pork with a thin, but still generous, layer of sea salt. (I used Himalayan Pink Sea Salt)



Cover the roasting pan with 3 layers of heavy duty aluminum foil, crimping it tight around the edges for a good seal. I use a roasting pan with a 'lip' on it, to ensure I can crimp the foil tight.

Bake the pork for 5 hours...no more, no less....at 350 degrees. Don't touch it....don't check it...don't look at it....set the timer...and forget about it! Take it out of the oven and let sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then peel back the foil and shred the pork with a large kitchen fork.


It will, literally, fall right apart for you...into the remaining juices! Serve it with white rice and cabbage, if you like...Island Style!


This last step is very important....please read carefully! As your guests ooooh and ahhh over the delicious smell and taste of the Kalua Pork....you tell them a 'Big Whopper' of a lie! Yes...that's right...you LIE!

You tell them that you and your honey (if ya got one!) went out and hunted the wild pig yesterday...risking 'life and limb' as it charged you! You threw the spear...spot on....and nailed that sucker right between the eyes! You then came home....gutted, skinned and cleaned the beast....after which...you went out in the back yard....dug an IMU PIT 4 feet deep into the ground....covered the pig with ti leaves...put red hot lava rocks over the covered pig....buried it back into the dirt....and roasted the durn thing overnight....ESPECIALLY FOR THEM! You then explain that...yes...you're completely exhausted from all that hard work...BUT, also....that NOTHING is too good for YOUR family and friends! You'll be the HERO and everyone will marvel at your talent, tenacity and, most of all.....your love for them! Works every time...lol!
Aloha Nui Loa!

ENJOY!