Taylor pork roll, also known as Taylor ham, is a popular sliced luncheon meat originally from New Jersey. With its salty, smoky, slightly spicy flavor, this pre-cooked pork product has earned a cult following in the Northeast region. While many people fry up slices of Taylor pork roll in a pan, baking it in the oven is an easy alternative cooking method.
This article will show you how to bake a Taylor pork roll step by step. It will also include ideas for serving, ways to store it, and answers to some of the most common questions people have about it. Let’s get started!.
What is Taylor Pork Roll?
For those unfamiliar, Taylor pork roll is a processed and pre-cooked pork product made from a mix of ground pork, salt, spices, and curing agents. It was invented by John Taylor in 1856 in Trenton, NJ. Sliced into thin cuts, it makes for a tasty breakfast meat often served in sandwiches
The pinkish-red sliced luncheon meat has a distinctive flavor profile described as mildly spicy, smoky, salty, and lightly sweet. It provides a very satisfying umami meaty flavor. While originally called “Taylor’s Prepared Ham”, it was rebranded as “pork roll” in 1906 to avoid issues with regulations on using “ham” for non-ham products.
Benefits of Baking Taylor Pork Roll
While many people cook Taylor pork roll in a frying pan. baking it in the oven offers some advantages
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Even cooking The oven’s ambient heat surrounds and cooks the pork roll evenly on all sides
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Less messy: Baking avoids the splattering grease from pan-frying.
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Easier cooking: Simply pop it in the oven and set a timer versus monitoring it on the stovetop.
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Added flavor: Baking gives the pork roll slices a nice touch of crispy crunch.
Ingredients Needed
Baking Taylor pork roll is simple. You just need:
- Taylor pork roll slices
- Parchment paper
- Optional seasonings: garlic powder, pepper
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking Taylor Pork Roll
Follow these easy steps for baking flavorful Taylor pork roll in your oven:
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This moderate temperature prevents the pork roll from overcooking.
2. Line the Baking Sheet
Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
3. Slice the Taylor Pork Roll
Using a sharp knife, slice the Taylor pork roll into your desired thickness, between 1⁄8 to 1⁄4 inches thick. Too thin and it can dry out. Too thick and the inside may be underdone.
4. Arrange the Slices on the Sheet
Place the Taylor pork roll slices flat on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. Evenly spaced allows for proper cooking.
5. Season the Pork Roll (Optional)
Lightly season both sides of the pork roll slices with garlic powder, black pepper, or other spices of your choice. This adds a touch more flavor.
6. Bake the Pork Roll
Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until lightly browned and crispy around the edges.
7. Remove and Serve
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it rest 1-2 minutes before serving. Be cautious of hot pan. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
Baked Taylor pork roll is very versatile. Here are some serving ideas:
- On a breakfast sandwich with egg and cheese
- Chopped up in omelets or breakfast hash
- On a burger or hoagie roll as a sandwich
- Added to ramen or stir fry dishes
- Served alongside eggs and pancakes or waffles
Use your imagination to find new ways to enjoy this New Jersey classic!
Storage Tips
Properly stored, baked Taylor pork roll lasts 4-5 days refrigerated and 2-3 months frozen. To store:
- Let cool completely after baking.
- Place in a sealed container or zip top bag.
- Refrigerate for short term storage.
- Freeze for longer term storage.
When ready to use, simply reheat frozen pork roll in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about cooking Taylor pork roll in the oven:
Can you bake Taylor pork roll instead of pan frying?
Yes, baking Taylor pork roll slices in the oven is an easy alternative to frying them on the stovetop.
What temperature should you bake it at?
Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes to heat through and crisp lightly.
How long does it take to bake?
It takes approximately 10-12 minutes to bake thin sliced Taylor pork roll. Flip halfway through.
Can you add seasoning or spices before baking?
Yes! Lightly seasoning with garlic powder, pepper, or other spices adds extra flavor.
How do you know when it’s done baking?
It’s done when the pork roll slices are lightly browned at the edges and heated through.
Can I bake a whole Taylor pork roll?
You can bake a whole chub of Taylor pork roll, though it may take substantially longer to cook through. Slicing it first helps it bake faster and more evenly.
What’s the best way to serve baked Taylor pork roll?
Popular serving options include breakfast sandwiches, in omelets or hash, on sandwiches/burgers, and as a side to eggs.
Is there a vegetarian substitute for pork roll?
There are some vegetarian “faux pork roll” options made from seitan or tofu, though the flavor and texture won’t be exact.
Enjoy the Classic Taste of Taylor Pork Roll
With this easy oven baking method, you can enjoy the savory salty-smoky flavor of Taylor pork roll anytime. Bake up a batch on the weekend to enjoy all week on sandwiches and breakfast plates. This New Jersey specialty is sure to satisfy meat lovers and fans of deli-style luncheon meats.
