Big Butt Dilema - Need Info

[thedood]

I bought what I thought was two butts but after looking at it I realize it is one huge shoulder just under 21 pounds. I want to serve dinner tomorrow night at 6pm or so. Should I cut it in half? Keep it whole? Start the dang thing this evening? Ive never cooked a piece of meat this large and not sure how to progress.

Cooking on an OKJ modded with door seals, firebox is sealed, charcoal basket and tuning plates. Holds temps well. I also have to leave for about 3 hours in the morning but not to worried about that as I can stock the firebox before I leave and it should be fine.

 

[pc farmer]

IF you know how to, separate the butt from the picnic.  That will make it cook quicker.  

I know one thing.   I would for sure start it now.    Not sure if at 21 lbs left whole would get done in time even starting it now.    Got to cook at a hotter temp.   Maybe wrap?   That would help.

Just throwing out ideas.

 

[thedood]

I think I am going to start it now. Ive never separated a roast like that. Going to head out and fire up the smoker. Thanks!!

 

[chef jimmyj]

Get going asap. A whole does not take double the time of the portions but at 250-275, 18-20 hours is about right. They separate at the ball joint of the blade and arm...Not hard but takes some poking around to find the spot...JJ

 

[redheelerdog]

 
I bought what I thought was two butts but after looking at it I realize it is one huge shoulder just under 21 pounds. I want to serve dinner tomorrow night at 6pm or so. Should I cut it in half? Keep it whole? Start the dang thing this evening? Ive never cooked a piece of meat this large and not sure how to progress.

Cooking on an OKJ modded with door seals, firebox is sealed, charcoal basket and tuning plates. Holds temps well. I also have to leave for about 3 hours in the morning but not to worried about that as I can stock the firebox before I leave and it should be fine.

Sorry, I just had to...