Expert: John Langenfelder - 5/17/2009

Question
im smoking a 130 pound pig i was wondering what i should stuff it with and what kind of marinate also what do you use to close the cavity after stuffing it this is my first time doing it i also thought of useing mesquite wood is this ok.

Answer
Bill,

I do not stuff my pigs, but I have heard of people stuffing it with chopped up pork butt and bread cubes.  If you do stuff it, it will increase your cooking time.  To close the cavity, use butchers twine, punch small holes on both sides and weave the twine back and forth stitching up the cavity.  If you are cooking on a spit, make sure you wrap the pig in chicken wire so it doesn't fall apart. I do not marinate.  The pig is naturally marinate by the fat under the skin.  I do put a pan of apple juice and seasoning under the pig to keep it moist.  I do season the cavity of the pig.  Be careful using mesquite. It can impart a harsh taste to the meat, if you use to much.  I prefer hickory, oak or fruitwood like apple or cherry.