Slow Cooked Kalua Pig

I have been to Hawai'i a handful of times and each time I hit a luau just for the delicious kalua pig (a pig they cover in banana leaves and slow cook underground). YUM. This is delicious and done at home in the slow cooker. Not exactly the same thing, but good enough for this mainlander. :) Super easy, super awesome. I served with long rice and fresh pineapple and my husband and kids RAVED. Serves 12.

Slow Cooked Kalua Pig

1 6-lb pork butt or shoulder roast
1 1/2 Tbsp salt*
1 Tbsp liquid smoke flavoring
1 banana, optional

1. Pierce pork all over with carving fork. Rub salt then liquid smoke over the meat. Place roast in slow cooker. Wash banana ad cut in half lengthwise (WHILE IN THE PEEL), if using. Place both halves (banana is still in peel, mind you), banana side down, on top of roast.
2. Cover and cook on low for 16 to 20 hours, turning once during cooking time.
3. An hour before serving, remove banana; discard. Shred meat and continue to cook on low. Serve warm.

* You can spend money on Hawai'ian black salt but I don't know that there's enough difference for the price.