National Roast Suckling Pig Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Roast Suckling Pig Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Roast Suckling Pig Day is observed on December 18th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Roast Suckling Pig Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as cool facts you might want to know about National Roast Suckling Pig Day.

📅 What day is National Roast Suckling Pig Day 2024?

In 2024, National Roast Suckling Pig Day is on Monday, December 18th. It is the 3rd Monday in December; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can see all fascinating details and facts about December 18, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Celebrate National Roast Suckling Pig Day on December 18 and indulge in a mouthwatering feast, without having to wait for Christmas. Suckling pig is considered a delicacy because its meat is tender, juicy, and has a higher gelatinous texture due to increased collagen levels. These pigs are typically between two and six weeks old and still rely on their mother’s milk. Hence the name “suckling.” If you’re up for the challenge, roasting a whole newborn pig, from nose to tail, can create a delightful dinner that can feed up to 20 adults. Gather your family and extended family and get ready to cook, preferably starting five hours before serving time.

📜 National Roast Suckling Pig Day History

Suckling pigs are a popular and traditional dish in various countries, including China, Spain, the United States, and the Philippines. They have long been the centerpiece of feasts and banquets in different culinary cultures. The idea of valuing suckling pigs can be traced back to ancient times, with references found in sixth-century literature such as the Salian Law. This law imposed penalties for stealing a suckling pig, indicating its significance even back then.

Spain is often considered the birthplace of the tradition of roasting suckling pigs, specifically known as cochinillo asado. The regions of Castile and Segovia are particularly renowned for this delicacy. It is believed that the Roman invasion of Hispania in 218 B.C. introduced this practice to Spain. In the 1930s, a tavern owner in Segovia started a new tradition by cutting the roasted suckling pig with the edge of a plate to demonstrate the tenderness of the meat and add flair to the presentation. Many Spanish restaurants still follow this tradition today.

The importance of this dish in Spain is evident from its mentions in literary works. Miguel de Cervantes included a scene with suckling piglets cooking over a fire in “Don Quixote,” highlighting its significance in Castilian countryside weddings. Ernest Hemingway, a renowned writer, was said to be a fan of this dish and even wrote about it in “The Sun Also Rises” at his favorite Spanish restaurant, known for its roast suckling pig.

✅ National Roast Suckling Pig Day Facts

🔖 It won’t increase your cholesterol
The meat from suckling pigs has 40% less fat compared to meat from adult pigs, so consuming it will not increase your cholesterol levels.

🔖 It’s a sign of prosperity

🔖 The oldest restaurant in the world serves it
According to Guinness World Records, Casa Botin holds the title for being the oldest restaurant globally. It is renowned for serving the finest cochinillo asado in the world.

👍 Why Is National Roast Suckling Pig Day Important

China, Spain, and the United States aren’t the only countries that incorporate roast suckling pig into their cuisine. Other areas that enjoy it include Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Cuba, and the Philippines. So, while it is practically universal, it is prepared in a variety of ways that are unique to each culture.

Because the meat has more gelatin, it can help strengthen your bones, and the high collagen levels are beneficial to your skin. Not to mention that they have 40% less fat than adult pigs!

Don’t we all appreciate a dinner that may be served in ample amounts while still allowing for second helpings? And if you’re only serving a family of four, there will almost certainly be enough leftovers to last a week.

🙂 How To Observe National Roast Suckling Pig Day

⚡ Throw a feast
In addition to cooking a suckling pig by yourself, you have the option to turn it into a grand occasion and invite everyone you know. It’s only fitting to share such a lavish feast with loved ones. Consider hosting a costume party with a medieval or Spanish theme. Arrange a lengthy table adorned with silver goblets and utensils, and remember to add a final touch before presenting the main dish: placing an apple in the mouth of the roasted pig.

⚡ Roast your own suckling pig, of course!
This is no ordinary quick meal you throw together after work. To achieve a perfectly cooked piglet with a tender interior and crispy outer layer, roast it for approximately 1.5 hours. If you prefer to stick to the authentic Spanish recipe, the preparation is quite straightforward: just season it with garlic, a generous amount of salt, and thyme. Pair it with a delicious red wine for a delightful dining experience.

⚡ Dine out at a restaurant that does it in the traditional way
If you’re too busy or tired to cook it yourself, consider going to a restaurant for the full experience, where they might even do it better. While Spain and China have many restaurants that specialize in authentic roasted suckling pig, you can also try making it at home. On National Roast Suckling Pig Day, restaurants across the country serve this delicious dish.

📅 When is National Roast Suckling Pig Day?

See all 🔗 December holidays, including 🔗 Food & Beverage and other 🔗 Cooking holidays.

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