Key Summary:
- BBQ catering gives more flexibility in menus and suits any event, from weddings to corporate dos.
- Low and slow smoked meats, like Cornish oak pulled pork, create a unique flavour that hog roasts can’t replicate.
- The Aussie Smoker brings award-winning BBQ catering to Cornwall using Cornish oak and years and years of pitmaster experience.
When planning an event, food often sets the tone. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, birthday, or corporate party, you’ll want something that brings people together and leaves guests talking. Two popular options tend to be a hog roast and BBQ catering. But which one’s right for your event?
Let’s break down the key differences, the pros and cons, and why more people are leaning towards barbeque catering for that extra bit of atmosphere and flavour.
Understanding the Basics: What’s the Difference?
Both hog roast and BBQ catering bring that rustic outdoor feel that gets mouths watering before a single plate is served. But the style, flavour, and overall experience can be quite different.
Hog Roast Catering
A hog roast is a single large pig, slowly roasted over heat until the skin turns perfectly crisp and golden. It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, dramatic in presentation, simple in menu, and easy to serve. However, once it’s carved, that’s the meal. You get pulled pork or sliced roast pork, usually served with a bap and apple sauce.
BBQ Catering
Barbeque catering takes the concept further. Instead of focusing on one type of meat, this style of catering introduces a range of slow-smoked options such as brisket, ribs, chicken, and The Aussie Smoker’s Cornish oak smoked pulled pork. It’s about low and slow cooking, layering flavour through wood smoke, rubs, and marinades for hours until the meat is tender and bursting with taste. As well as being considered an outdoor cruise, our barbeque catering can also be prepared for indoor venues.
As BBC Good Food notes, the essence of good BBQ lies in patience, smoke, and precise temperature control which a simple hog roast cannot quite match.
Why Choose Barbeque Catering for Your Event?
BBQ catering has become the go-to choice for couples, families, and businesses across Cornwall because it delivers more than just food, it delivers an experience. Here’s why:
- Variety for all tastes: Guests can choose from different meats and sides, from smoked pulled pork to mac and cheese or grilled veggie skewers.
- Theatre of live cooking: There’s something special about watching food cooked fresh. It creates an atmosphere that’s warm, engaging, and memorable.
- Adaptable to any event: BBQ catering can suit everything from laid-back garden parties to formal weddings.
- Inclusive menu options: With plant-based options and gluten-free choices, everyone feels included.
- Authenticity: At The Aussie Smoker, we use Cornish oak and years of experience to bring true Aussie BBQ spirit to the Cornish backyard.
When a Hog Roast Might Still Work
Hog roasts still have their place. They’re great for very large gatherings where simplicity is key. If you’re feeding 100 guests and want something filling, traditional, and quick to serve, hog roast catering is efficient. But if you’re looking for layers of flavour, variety, and that relaxed backyard vibe, BBQ wins.
As The Food Standards Agency reminds us, proper cooking times and temperatures are essential when handling large amounts of meat, something experienced pitmasters like The Aussie Smoker know inside and out.
Experience the Difference: The Aussie Smoker Way
Our approach to catering is all about patience, precision, and passion. We smoke each cut low and slow using oak sourced locally, ensuring a rich, authentic flavour that keeps guests coming back for seconds.
From weddings and birthdays to private BBQ experiences and corporate functions, we bring the grill, the flavor, and the smiles. It’s proper Aussie BBQ, served up in the Cornish countryside.
What really sets us apart is the detail, from the sourcing of ingredients to the presentation. We don’t just turn up and serve, we create an atmosphere where guests feel like part of the process. You’ll smell the mouthwatering meats, see the flames, and taste the love in every bite.
Choosing Between Hog Roast and BBQ Catering
If you’re torn between the two, think about your event goals:
- For variety and flavour: Choose BBQ catering.
- For tradition and simplicity: Choose a hog roast.
- For something guests will talk about: Choose The Aussie Smoker.
We’ve catered for weddings, private parties, and corporate events all over Cornwall. Whether it’s a laid-back summer BBQ in Truro or a black-tie wedding in Falmouth, our goal is always the same, deliver food that makes people smile.
Our BBQ Catering Menu Highlights
Every menu is customised to fit the event, but here’s a taste of what you can expect:
- Cornish Oak Smoked Pulled Pork
- Australian Brisket, smoked for up to 16 hours
- Chargrilled Chicken with our signature BBQ rub
- Vegetarian options like Grilled Halloumi Skewers and What! No Bacon Beans
- Homemade sides, from Mac and Cheese to Fresh Slaw
Hungry yet? Check out our Catering Company page to see more of what we do and how we can bring the BBQ to you.
How to Plan the Perfect BBQ Event
Planning ahead makes all the difference. Here are a few quick tips to make your event a hit:
- Book your BBQ caterer early. We often get booked months in advance, especially during summer.
- Ask about menu flexibility. We love tailoring to dietary needs and event themes.
- Pair your food with the right drinks. A cold local ale or craft cider always hits the spot.
To start planning, reach out to our team and tell us about your event. We’ll help you choose a menu that fits your vibe, your budget, and your crowd.
Final Thoughts
While a hog roast delivers nostalgia and simplicity, BBQ catering gives you freedom, creativity, and unforgettable flavour. With The Aussie Smoker’s award-winning team behind the grill, you get more than just great food. You get an experience built on passion and proper Aussie BBQ vibes.
If you’re planning an event in Cornwall, check out our BBQ catering services and see why we’re trusted by couples, companies, and communities across the county.
FAQs
What’s the main difference between hog roast and BBQ catering?
A hog roast focuses on one main dish, roast pork, while BBQ catering offers a wider range of smoked meats and sides which gives guests more choice and flavour.
Is BBQ catering suitable for weddings and corporate events?
Yes. BBQ catering fits both relaxed and formal events, bringing a fun, social feel to weddings, corporate gatherings, and celebrations across Cornwall.
How far in advance should I book BBQ catering in Cornwall?
We recommend booking at least six months ahead, especially for summer events when demand is highest.
What meats do you smoke for your BBQ catering menu?
Our signature menu includes Cornish oak smoked pulled pork, brisket, chicken, and vegetarian options. Everything is cooked low and slow for that perfect smoky tenderness.
Why choose The Aussie Smoker over other caterers in Cornwall?
We’re an award-winning catering company in Cornwall known for quality, local sourcing where possible, and a unique Aussie BBQ twist. Every dish is made with passion and precision, and plenty of smiles.
