Name: Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork: 7 Comforting Steps
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h 15 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Ingredients: 3 pounds Pork Shoulder (Boston butt can be used as a substitute.); 1 tablespoon Hawaiian Salt (Regular sea salt works if needed.); 1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Coconut sugar is a good alternative.); 1 tablespoon Paprika (Smoked paprika lends an extra flavor.); 1 teaspoon Cumin (Ground coriander can be substituted.); 1 teaspoon Coriander; 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper; 2 tablespoons Canola Oil (Olive oil is an alternative.); 1 large Onion (Yellow or white onions are suitable.); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Ground ginger can be used instead.); 4 cloves Garlic; 1 cup Pineapple Juice (Orange juice can be substituted.); 2 cups Chicken Stock (Vegetable stock can be used for a lighter option.)

Jump to Recipe

Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork is a comforting dish that transports you to tropical shores with its rich flavors. This recipe brings together the best of Hawaiian cuisine, using tender pork shoulder, a blend of spices, and the sweet tang of pineapple juice to create a mouthwatering meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork

This dish is not only delicious but also offers numerous benefits. First, it showcases the unique Hawaiian-style Braised Pork Recipe that is both sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser. The inclusion of tender braised pork with pineapple enhances the flavor profile, creating a delightful balance. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. With the use of fresh ingredients and the traditional braised pork with Hawaiian flavors, you can enjoy an authentic dining experience at home. This recipe also fits well into a gluten-free diet, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork

Gather these items:

3 pounds Pork Shoulder (Boston butt can be used as a substitute.)
1 tablespoon Hawaiian Salt (Regular sea salt works if needed.)
1/4 cup Brown Sugar (Coconut sugar is a good alternative.)
1 tablespoon Paprika (Smoked paprika lends an extra flavor.)
1 teaspoon Cumin (Ground coriander can be substituted.)
1 teaspoon Coriander
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
2 tablespoons Canola Oil (Olive oil is an alternative.)
1 large Onion (Yellow or white onions are suitable.)
1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (Ground ginger can be used instead.)
4 cloves Garlic
1 cup Pineapple Juice (Orange juice can be substituted.)
2 cups Chicken Stock (Vegetable stock can be used for a lighter option.)

How to Make Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, Hawaiian salt, paprika, cumin, coriander, and black pepper.
Step 2: Cut the pork shoulder into four equal pieces and tie each with butcher’s twine. Generously season each piece with the spice mixture.
Step 3: Set your oven to 300°F (150°C). Heat canola oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
Step 4: Add the pork portions to the pot and sear them until golden brown on all sides, then set aside.
Step 5: In the same pot, add chopped onions, ginger, and garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about 3-4 minutes.
Step 6: Pour in pineapple juice and chicken stock, stirring to combine. Return seared pork to the pot.
Step 7: Cover and braise in the preheated oven for about 2 1/2 hours, or until pork is fork-tender.
Step 8: Remove the pork and broil for 2 minutes to caramelize the surface.
Step 9: Slice or shred the pork and serve hot with rice or in tacos.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork

Keep these in mind:

Serve with rice or in tacos for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For extra flavor, marinate the pork overnight.
Consider adding braised pork with coconut and pineapple for a tropical twist.

Best Ways to Serve Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork

This dish is incredibly versatile. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, making it a hearty meal. Alternatively, you can serve it in tacos for a fun twist. Add some fresh avocado and cilantro for an extra flavor kick. For those who enjoy a sweet and savory Hawaiian pork dish, try adding a side of grilled pineapple.

How to Store and Reheat Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork

To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm the pork in the oven or stovetop with a bit of the leftover juices to retain moisture. This makes for a great meal prep option, ready to enjoy anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork

What’s the secret to perfect Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork?

The key is in the marination and slow cooking. Allowing the pork to marinate in the Hawaiian marinade overnight enhances the flavors. The slow braising ensures the meat is tender and infused with the sweet and savory elements.

Can I make Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious when reheated. It’s perfect for meal prep or large gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork?

One common mistake is not searing the pork properly. Take your time to achieve a golden crust before braising. Also, ensure not to rush the cooking process; low and slow is the way to go for tender braised pork with Hawaiian flavors.

Variations of Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

For a different flavor, try adding Hawaiian BBQ braised pork sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Incorporate various tropical fruits like mango or papaya for a unique twist.
Substituting the pork shoulder with a cut of beef can give you a different texture and taste.

Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork: 7 Comforting Steps - Savory Braised Hawaiian Pork - additional detail

For more tips on cooking techniques, check out this guide on braising.

For a deeper dive into Hawaiian cuisine, visit this resource for more recipes.

Lastly, if you’re interested in the health benefits of pork, you can read more here (rel=”nofollow”).