: Cooking a whole pig requires specialized gear, whether it's a large spit or a custom-built pit.

, experts at Serious Eats recommend an oven temperature of . The goal is to reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) in the deepest joint (the shoulder) for a safe and tender result. Outdoor Pit Cooking : Traditional methods like the Hawaiian Imu

: Instead of paying individual cut prices, you often pay a flat per-pound rate (around $5.50/lb depending on the source) for a variety of pork cuts you select yourself.

: In many cultures, like in Hawaii, a pig roast is more than just a meal; it's a ritual event used to honor tradition and celebrate community. Pros and Cons Pros :

: Nothing beats the sight of a whole roasted pig at a gathering. Cons :

: Buying directly from a farm like Purely Pastured Farm allows you to know exactly how the animal was raised, which is a major plus for quality-conscious cooks.

involve digging a pit—sometimes 4 feet deep and 10 feet across —to smoke and steam the meat simultaneously. This results in a texture similar to pulled pork with a deep, smoky barbecue flavor.