Jul 17 2026
RestaurantsSpitfire Bar & GrillWhole-hog Barbecue Recipe

Whole-hog Barbecue Recipe

Time16h
Serves50

Renowned barbecue joint specializing in West Tennessee's legendary whole-hog barbecue tradition. Cooked with hickory and flavored with Martin's own dry-rub blend and a sweet blend of vinegar and tomato sauce.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Main Ingredients

Method

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare the Dry Rub

    In a bowl, combine the coarse salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create the dry rub.

  2. 2

    Rub the Hog

    Generously apply the dry rub all over the whole hog, ensuring it is evenly coated. Let it sit for at least 1 hour to absorb the flavors.

  3. 3

    Prepare the Smoker

    Soak the hickory wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and place them in the smoker. Preheat the smoker to 225°F (107°C).

  4. 4

    Smoke the Hog

    Place the whole hog on the smoker and cover it. Smoke for approximately 12-16 hours, maintaining a steady temperature and adding more wood chips as needed.

  5. 5

    Make the Sauce

    In a saucepan, combine the vinegar, tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves, then let it simmer for 10 minutes.

  6. 6

    Serve

    Once the hog is cooked and the internal temperature reaches at least 190°F (88°C), remove it from the smoker. Let it rest for 30 minutes before pulling the meat. Serve with the vinegar-tomato sauce on the side.

More from Spitfire Bar & Grill