How to Roast a Pig Cuban Style AKA Lechon

whole pig

🥗Healthier: chicken

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Chicken is lower in fat, while pork shoulder is more affordable.

rock salt

🥗Healthier: sea salt

💰Cheaper: table salt

Sea salt offers a similar flavor with less processing.

soy sauce

🥗Healthier: tamari

💰Cheaper: liquid aminos

Tamari is gluten-free and offers a similar taste.

vinegar

🥗Healthier: apple cider vinegar

💰Cheaper: white vinegar

Apple cider vinegar adds a unique flavor profile.

Sprinkle salt on both sides of the pig and rub it in.

Cut holes in the thick parts of the pig's legs and insert the liquid.

Light the charcoal and let it burn for a couple of minutes before spreading it out to each corner of the grill.

Uncover the pig after marinating overnight in a cold room at 60°F.

Attach the pig to a homemade rack using wire to secure it in the middle for grilling.

Add two more wires on each side to secure the pig for flipping.

Separate the burning charcoal into sections after about 15 minutes.

Walk the pig over to the barbecue pit and place it skin-side down on the grill for half an hour.

Cover the pig with a pan for the first half hour to help the marinade penetrate.

After 30 minutes, uncover and flip the pig over, keeping it tied.

Cover the pig again with the pan and cook for 6 to 7 hours, flipping it one more time towards the end to crisp the skin.

Add 5 to 8 briquettes to the fire every 45 minutes during the cooking process.

Avoid opening the pan too much to maintain heat.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: