Deciding to roast a whole pig is quite a feat and requires a lot of planning for a successful outcome. It may sound like glorified barbecue, but the details that go into execution and the time and effort it takes to cook it properly are no small undertaking.
Pork roast traditionally has its roots in Pacific Island and Caribbean cultures, specifically Hawaii, the Philippines, and Cuba. It is even known to be practiced in some areas of southern China. It is a very common practice for New Years celebrations and has spread to include Christmas, Christmas Eve, and even Thanksgiving. Now, roast pork has infiltrated mainstream American culture and is often called a pork chop in the Deep South.
As a result, there are several traditional styles of seasoning and seasoning your pork, each providing a unique style and flavor in the kitchen. Cooking options and methods should be thoroughly researched before attempting a pork roast on your own, and having an experienced roaster with you can be a big help!
So what important things should be taken into account?
- Who when? – With a whole pig to roast, you better plan to have a lot of guests. Events this big require enough lead time for people to clear time on their calendars. Decide on a date and start compiling your guest list right away. Send out invitations as soon as possible so your friends and family know what date to reserve.
- How big of a pig? – The common hog will weigh over 100 pounds, which translates to a lot of meat to serve and eat. However, the pigs are available in weight ranges, and you can even order a smaller, younger pig for smaller occasions. If you are unsure of the size of an animal you require, be sure to request an estimate of the number of guests when ordering.
- Extra Help: Having an experienced chef help out is a great idea. But more than that, cooking a pig takes hours. Be sure to gather enough volunteers so that the barbecue can be seen in turns at all times. Leaving your kitchen unattended could have disastrous results, both for your food and your location.
- Roasting Kit/Tools – When examining the ways to roast a pig, the options can seem as varied as the stars in the sky. Try taking a look first at the seasoning you want before finalizing on a cooking method. Different styles may have different cooking methods, so that can help point you in the right direction. Also, see which method might be most practical for the space you’ll be using for your celebration.
- Seasoning: Each culture that has a tradition of roasting pork has created its own unique styles of flavor. Additionally, these styles have been modified and combined over time to create unique offshoots. You’ll find Hawaiian style, Cuban style, Caja China, Puerto Rican, and even Filipino for starters. You can even buy your pork professionally seasoned and 100% ready to start grilling!
- Venue Location: A large meal and large number of guests probably won’t fit in the average person’s backyard. Start early to visit large places like parks and community centers. Keep in mind that not all places will accommodate this style of cooking, so do your research before selecting a location.
- Address timing: Because such a large animal takes so long to cook, timing is perhaps the most important point in making your event a success. Consider the weight of the pork and the estimated cooking times based on your specific cooking method. Some cooking styles require more than 24 hours of cooking, while others only need 4 to 6. Get a firm grasp of how long your pig will require, and plan to have all your roasting helpers ready to go well in advance.
- Equipment Rental: Not all available venues will come equipped with tables and chairs. Be sure to secure enough rentals for all of your guests, as well as purchase the necessary cutlery in bulk. Plates, cups, napkins and cutlery (or plastic items) will need to be purchased in a quantity well in excess of the total number of guests.
- Additional Entertainment: While you wait for the big meal to begin, your guests will have plenty of free time. The adults will be happy to mingle and mingle, but the recreational activities will help the evening run smoothly. If there will be children at your event, they will need a lot to keep them occupied.
- Sides and Drinks – While their incredible barbecue is the main event, no meal is complete with just one dish! Be sure to include a variety of sides and drinks for your guests to choose from, and don’t forget to get enough for everyone. If you also want to cook these dishes at home, make sure you have enough support and hands to accomplish everything.
When in doubt, the best advice you can get is from an experienced roaster. Check out some books from your local bookstore or library. Spend enough time planning and your event will run smoothly. Enjoy!