Pig Roasts

A succulent pig roast is being carved, attracting the eager attention of guests ready to enjoy the delicious feast at an outdoor gathering.

A Brief History of Pig Roasts

Pig roasting is one of the oldest communal cooking traditions in the world. From ancient feasts in Polynesia to backyard celebrations in the American South, the act of roasting a whole pig has always been about more than just food — it's about gathering, celebration, and shared experience.

In places like Hawaii, it’s known as a luau, where a pig is slow-cooked in an underground oven (called an imu). In the Caribbean and Latin America, lechón asado is often the centerpiece of holidays and festivals. And in the American South, pig roasts are weekend traditions — smoked low and slow until the meat falls off the bone.

How to Cook a Whole Pig

Common Cooking Methods:

• La Caja China Box: An above-ground roasting box that cooks a whole pig in 3–5 hours.

• Spit Roast: Rotisserie style over an open fire takes longer, but gives dramatic presentation.

• Smoker or Pit BBQ: Very popular in the South: low and slow with wood smoke.

• Ground Pit (Traditional): Dig a pit, line it with hot stones, and cover the pig with banana leaves or burlap.

Lorenzo's sells whole pigs for your first or your next pig roast. Check out the information on our Cash 'n Carry page.

Appetizer Ideas for a Pig Roast

To get your guests going before the big pig reveal, here are some tasty, crowd-pleasing appetizers, especially for outdoor or seafood-friendly gatherings:

Seafood & Fish-Based Apps

• Grilled clams with garlic butter or white wine broth

• Ceviche with citrus-marinated white fish, cilantro, and onions

• Mini crab cakes with remoulade sauce

• Smoked salmon crostini with cream cheese and dill

• Fried calamari or grilled squid skewers

• Bacon-wrapped scallops

• Shrimp cocktail with homemade cocktail sauce