Vegan Kalua Pig
Experience the bold, smoky flavors of traditional Hawaiian cuisine with a plant-based twist in this Vegan Kalua Pig recipe. Made with tender young green jackfruit, smoky liquid smoke, and a medley of spices like smoked paprika and garlic powder, this dish expertly mimics the texture and taste of the classic slow-cooked pork. Simmered in savory vegetable stock and caramelized to perfection, it's a satisfying vegan alternative that’s versatile enough for tacos, sandwiches, or rice bowls. Ready in just over an hour, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Garnished with fresh green onions, it’s a flavorful, cruelty-free take on a beloved Hawaiian favorite. Perfect for vegan, gluten-free, or plant-based eaters looking to explore exotic flavors without compromise.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cans (20 oz each) young green jackfruit (canned in water or brine)
- 2 tablespoons liquid smoke
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 cup vegetable stock
- 2 tablespoons green onions (sliced, for garnish)
Instructions
Begin by draining and rinsing the young green jackfruit from the cans. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Using a paring knife or your hands, remove the hard core portion of the jackfruit pieces and discard. Shred the remaining jackfruit with a fork or your hands to resemble pulled pork.
In a large skillet, heat the coconut oil over medium heat.
Add the shredded jackfruit to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes until it starts to brown lightly.
Stir in the soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free, liquid smoke, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and sea salt. Mix well to ensure the jackfruit is evenly coated with the seasonings.
Pour the vegetable stock into the skillet, give it a good stir, and cover with a lid.
Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid has mostly evaporated and the jackfruit is tender.
Remove the lid and turn the heat up to medium-high. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the jackfruit caramelizes slightly and any remaining liquid evaporates.
Once done, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Transfer the vegan kalua pig to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions.
Serve hot as a main dish or use in tacos, sandwiches, or bowls. Enjoy your delicious vegan kalua pig!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
741 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 34.0 g | 44% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.6 g | 118% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 7434 mg | 323% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 100.2 g | 36% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 27.5 g | 98% | |
| Total Sugars | 11.7 g | ||
| Protein | 22.9 g | 46% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 290 mg | 22% | |
| Iron | 6.7 mg | 37% | |
| Potassium | 3129 mg | 67% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
