cooking a whole hog

Trimming A Whole Hog

Trimming/Butchering A Whole Hog

step-by-step instructions on how to trim and butcher a whole hog before slow-smoking How to trim a whole hog before smoking. It is essential to trim to make sure that the meat is exposed and the smoke and rub can penetrate your BBQ. Taking the time to trim your hog will be the hardest step – but once you get it done… you will have an easier job during the cooking process and quality of your BBQ meat will be at the competition level. And I don’t know about you, but every time I cook BBQ – either at a contest or in my own backyard – I want to make sure I get the best BBQ meat possible.
These hog trimming videos were actually shot all at a contest where we won 1st place in Whole Hog. You will need a few tools to butcher your whole hog properly:
  • Extra sharp boning knife
  • Electric saw for cutting the legs, head and ribs
  • Small hatchet for splitting the backbone

Once you have these tools, you can use these videos as a guide on exactly how you want to trim a whole hog. This is the competition-style way… which is a little more in-depth that your average backyard BBQer will follow, but this method will give your meat maximum smoke penetration, it will help to ensure the pig cooks evenly, and it will give you the best quality product.

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4 responses to “Trimming A Whole Hog”

  1. Daryl Cates says:

    Malcom, I’m from San Angelo Texas and own a restaurant supply company. I’ve been eating in restaurants for years to support my customers but have always wanted to learn how to BBQ right. I stumbled across your turkey video right before thanksgiving. It was my first time using a green egg and it turned out amazing! I have since been following you and I’m amazed how good your recipes and videos are! Look forward to trying more things that you have available. Keep up the good work! Daryl

  2. George Coyle says:

    You are the man Malcolm! I’ve been smokin and grilling for a long time! Bought my first reverse flow trailer unit 2 years ago! About to have our grand opening! Thank you for all your videos and detailed information! I use a few of your recipes! The mac and cheese drives people crazy! I just started making fried mac and cheese balls with leftovers! Thanks again!
    George Coyle
    Pop Pop bubbas Own bbq!

  3. Mark wheeler says:

    R u required to cook two whole hogs at Memphis in May in the whole hog event

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