Indulge in the rich flavors of Hawaiian heritage with Kalua Pig, a beloved culinary masterpiece hailing from the Kingdom of Hawaii. This traditional dish boasts a history as rich as its taste, symbolizing community, celebration, and the essence of Aloha spirit.

Prepared with meticulous care, Kalua Pig is crafted using a method as ancient as the islands themselves. The succulent pork is seasoned to perfection, then enveloped in banana leaves before being gently nestled into an imu, an underground oven. Here, it undergoes a slow and tender roasting process, infused with smoky aromas and the essence of the earth.

Once unearthed, the Kalua Pig emerges with a heavenly aroma, its meat falling off the bone and bursting with flavor. Each savory bite is a journey through time, a homage to the traditions and cultural richness of the Kingdom of Hawaii.

Whether shared at a luau, family gathering, or enjoyed as a cherished meal, Kalua Pig embodies the spirit of unity and celebration ingrained in Hawaiian culture. Experience the taste of aloha with this timeless dish, and savor the essence of the Kingdom of Hawaii's culinary legacy.

Ingredients:

1. (4-6 pound) pork shoulder or pork butt, bone-in or boneless 

2. 2 tablespoons Hawaiian sea salt (or any coarse sea salt) 

3. 4-6 large banana leaves (if available) 

4. Aluminum foil 

5. Liquid smoke (optional, for added smokiness) 

6. 1 cup chicken or pork broth (or water) 

7. Additional sea salt to taste 

8. Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2- If using banana leaves, briefly heat them over an open flame or warm them in a skillet to make them pliable. This helps to release their aroma. Alternatively, you can use aluminum foil.

3- Rub the pork shoulder generously with the Hawaiian sea salt, making sure to coat all sides. Optionally, you can sprinkle some liquid smoke over the meat for added flavor.

4- If using banana leaves, place a couple of them on a baking sheet, overlapping slightly. If using aluminum foil, simply lay out a large piece on the baking sheet.

5- Place the seasoned pork shoulder on the banana leaves or aluminum foil. Wrap it tightly, ensuring there are no gaps for steam to escape.

6- Pour the chicken or pork broth (or water) into the bottom of the baking dish to create steam and keep the pork moist during cooking.

7- Place the wrapped pork in the preheated oven and roast for about 4-5 hours for a 4-6 pound shoulder, or until the meat is very tender and easily shreds with a fork. You can also use a slow cooker set on low for 8-10 hours.

8- Once cooked, carefully unwrap the pork and transfer it to a cutting board. Let it rest for a few minutes.

9- Shred the meat using two forks, discarding any large pieces of fat or bone.

10- Season the shredded pork with additional sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

11- Serve the Kalua Pig hot with traditional Hawaiian sides like steamed rice, macaroni salad, or poi. Enjoy the taste of Hawaii's culinary heritage!

This recipe may not replicate the exact flavors achieved with an imu, but it captures the essence of Kalua Pig and allows you to enjoy this traditional Hawaiian dish at home. Adjust seasonings and cooking times to your preference. Aloha!

Nutritional Values :

Here are the nutritional values and benefits for the ingredients you listed:

Pork Shoulder or Pork Butt (4-6 pounds):

  - Calories: Approximately 3200-4800 calories (varies based on fat content)

  - Protein: 320-420 grams

  - Fat: 240-360 grams

  - Vitamins:

    - B Vitamins (B6, B12, niacin, thiamin)

Minerals:

    - Zinc: 300-450% of the daily value (DV)

    - Selenium: 250-400% of DV

    - Phosphorus: 300-450% of DV

    - Iron: 100-150% of DV

Benefits:

  - Muscle Growth and Repair: High in protein, essential for muscle maintenance and growth.

  - Lmmune Support: Rich in zinc, which is crucial for a healthy immune system.

  - Energy Production: B vitamins aid in converting food into energy.

  - Bone Health: Contains phosphorus, which is vital for bone strength.

Hawaiian Sea Salt (2 tablespoons):

  - Calories: 0 calories

  - Sodium: Approximately 4500 mg (about 200% of DV)

  - Nutritional Content: Primarily sodium chloride with trace minerals like magnesium and calcium.

Benefits:

  - Electrolyte Balance: Helps maintain proper fluid balance in the body.

  - Flavor Enhancement: Adds a distinctive flavor to dishes.

Banana Leaves (4-6 large leaves):

  - Calories: Negligible, typically used as a cooking vessel rather than consumed.

  - Nutritional Content: Minimal, but they can impart a subtle flavor and aroma to food.

Benefits:

  - Natural Cooking Wrap: Provides a unique flavor and helps retain moisture in food.

  - Aromatic Enhancement: Adds a subtle, earthy aroma to dishes.

Aluminum Foil

  - Nutritional Content: None, used for wrapping and cooking purposes.

Benefits: Cooking Tool: Helps in even heat distribution and moisture retention during cooking.

Liquid Smoke (optional):

  - Calories: Approximately 0-10 calories per teaspoon

  - Nutritional Content: Negligible, provides flavor rather than nutrients.

Benefits: Flavor Addition: Adds a smoky flavor without the need for a smoker.

Chicken or Pork Broth (1 cup):

  - Calories: Approximately 10-40 calories (depending on the type and concentration)

  - Protein: 1-5 grams

  - Fat: 0-3 grams

  - Vitamins and Minerals:

    - Sodium: Can vary greatly depending on the brand or preparation.

    - Trace amounts of calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Benefits:

  - Flavor Enhancement: Adds depth of flavor to dishes.

  - Hydration: Contains water, which aids in hydration.

  - Nutrient Source: Provides small amounts of protein and minerals.

Additional Sea Salt (to taste):

  - Calories: 0 calories

  - Nutritional Content: Primarily sodium chloride.

Benefits:

  - Flavor Enhancement: Enhances the taste of the dish.

  - Electrolyte Balance: Important for maintaining fluid balance.

Freshly Ground Black Pepper (to taste):

  - Calories: 5-10 calories per teaspoon

  - Nutritional Content:

    - Small amounts of vitamin K, iron, and manganese.

Benefits:

  - Digestive Health: Can stimulate digestion by increasing hydrochloric acid secretion.

  - Antioxidant Properties: Contains piperine, which has antioxidant effects.

  - Flavor Enhancement: Adds a sharp, pungent flavor to dishes.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as specific brands of ingredients and cooking methods.