Kalua Pig and Yam
Kalua Pig and Yam is a traditional Hawaiian dish featuring slow-cooked, smoky shredded pork (kalua pig) and starchy, sweet yams or sweet potatoes. It's typically prepared in an underground oven called an imu, where the ingredients are wrapped in banana or ti leaves and steamed with hot rocks, infusing them with a distinctive earthy, smoky flavor.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is a balanced source of complex carbohydrates from the yam and protein from the pork, with a moderate amount of fat. It provides key nutrients like potassium, vitamin A, and B vitamins, with a typical serving containing roughly 400-500 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 40 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
| Sodium | 650 mg |
| Potassium | 750 mg |
| Vitamin A | 180% DV |
| Vitamin B6 | 35% DV |
| Niacin (B3) | 30% DV |
| Phosphorus | 25% DV |
| Iron | 15% DV |
| Zinc | 20% DV |
| Selenium | 40% DV |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The unique cooking method in the imu is central to the dish's identity, as the underground steaming process not only tenderizes the meat but also allows the yams to absorb the rich, smoky essence. Culturally, it's a centerpiece of Hawaiian lūʻau feasts, symbolizing community and celebration.
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AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms