Sizes

• Pig roasters come in many varieties, oversized trailer-pulled models and mini backyard versions. Consider the size of the crowd and how large of a pig you will be roasting to feed them before selecting a cooker.
  
  

Heat Source

• Pig roasters are offered in charcoal and wood-burning or propane-burning options of the same models. Gas heat is easier to keep within a temperature range but does not offer the complex flavor profile of charcoal and wood.
  
  

Function

• Pig roasters are designed to cook the whole hog in one session to give the meat a distinctly different flavor and texture. The exterior of the pig reaches a crisp golden brown while the meat remains moist and tender.
  
  

Preparation

• Before a pig goes on the grill, it must be clean with fresh water inside and out before being coated in a seasoning rub. The pig's face, including the ears, should be covered in aluminum foil to prevent burning.
  
  

Even Cooking

• Movement of the meat or heat is crucial to evenly roasting a pig. Some roasters have built-in rotisseries to move the pig during the roasting process. Open vents to keep a constant circulation of hot air in roasters that leave the pig stationary during cooking.