Pigs were first domesticated about 7000 BC. The Domesday Book records herds several thousand strong throughout England. The word "porcelain" comes from the pig bone used for bone china. Some breeds of Far Eastern pig have webbed trotters and catch fish. Traditionally, they are slaughtered before the first frosts at around 10-12 months. Selective breeding has produced breeds with a thinner coat of fat than their wild ancestors, a broad back and massive thighs.

Tip: to increase your chances of getting good crackling, dry the fat with a kitchen towel, score it and then rub salt all over it before starting the cooking in a hot oven.