Estimating Quantity for Pulled Pork

Bob V

I'm a long-time Egger, but have to admit to being somewhat of a tyro compared to some folks on the Forum when it comes to the Massive Cook. I'm usually just cooking for three-six - maybe eight tops.[p]Two weeks from now I've committed to cooking pulled pork for around 35 people. I've done low & slow pork shoulders and butts before, no prob with that, I just need to know how much to cook.[p]Usual butcher's estimate is between 1/4 and 1/2 pound per person, depending. But what about the bone and the long cook that takes most of the fat out?[p]What do you think? 18 pounds of butt or shoulder? More? Less? Two small ones or one large one?[p]Thanks - Bob V

Celtic Wolf

Bob V,[p]The rule is a 40% loss from raw to cooked. 1/4 to 1/3 pound per person of cooked product. This will depend on the crowd and what sides you will serve.[p]Average crowd.. (No Line Backers or Defensive Ends) 35 people times 4 oz 140 oz = 8.75 pounds cooked = 15 pounds raw. Add in about 20% cooked for second. 18 pounds raw. 3 eight pound bone-in butts will be perfect. Want left overs go 4.

Unknown

Celtic Wolf,[p]I actually just whipped up an Excel spreadsheet where you plug in the number of men and women attending (men tend to eat more, so I multiply them by two).[p]It gives you your precooked weight and estimated cook time (2 to 2.5 hours per precooked weight)[p]
[ul][li]Click to download[/ul]

Unknown

ThinkandDrive,[p]Oh, and that cooking time is for one butt. If you can find a 22lb pork butt, expect it to cook for 50 hours or so.[p]Of course, you could always find a few smaller ones. For the numebr of people you're cooking for, that part might not be the best to follow. haha

Super Glide

Bob V,[p]I've always just estimated 1/2 pound of uncooked meat per person.[p]The bone doesn't weigh much and won't matter if its in or not.[p]So for 35 people, 18 pounds raw would be fine. Honestly, you'll probably have a good amount of leftovers... but thats a good thing.