Taylor pork roll, also known as Taylor ham, is a popular breakfast meat originating from New Jersey. This thinly sliced, seasoned smoked pork product can be fried up into delicious sandwiches or enjoyed plain. But did you know you can also easily cook Taylor pork roll in the microwave?
Microwaving pork roll is a quick and convenient cooking method that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy hot and tasty Taylor pork roll within minutes.
Benefits of Microwave Cooking Taylor Pork Roll
There are several advantages to cooking pork roll in the microwave
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Speed – Microwaving is significantly faster than frying or baking. You can have delicious pork roll ready in just 1-2 minutes.
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Convenience – Microwave cooking requires minimal prep and cleanup It’s an effortless way to cook pork roll anytime
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Healthier – Microwaving pork roll doesn’t require any added fat or oil. It’s a lower-calorie preparation method.
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Portability – You can microwave pork roll in any microwave, which makes it easy to cook at home or the office.
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** apartment/dorm-friendly** – Microwaves take up little space, making them perfect for small kitchens.
Step-by-Step Guide to Microwaving Taylor Pork Roll
Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked Taylor pork roll every time:
Prep the Pork Roll
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Remove the outer burlap casing and plastic wrap from the pork roll. Be careful not to cut too far down, as this can dry out the meat.
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Slice the pork roll into thin pieces, about 1⁄8 to 1⁄4 inch thick. Thinner slices will cook more evenly.
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Make a few shallow slits around the edges of the slices to prevent curling.
Choose a Microwave-Safe Dish
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Select a bowl or plate that is microwave-safe. Make sure it’s large enough to lay out the pork roll slices in a single layer without crowding.
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The dish should be deep enough to prevent juices from spilling over.
Microwave
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Place the sliced pork roll in the microwave-safe dish.
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Cover the dish completely with a lid or plastic wrap to lock in moisture. Be sure the covering is vented.
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Microwave on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute per batch, until heated through.
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For thicker cuts, microwave in 30 second increments, flipping halfway for even cooking.
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Let the microwaved pork roll rest for 1-2 minutes before serving.
Microwaving Tips for Best Results
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Stir or rearrange the slices halfway through microwaving to promote even cooking.
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Add a tablespoon of water to the dish to steam and prevent drying out.
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Double-check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety. Pork roll should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
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Adjust microwave power and cooking time as needed based on thickness of slices and microwave wattage.
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For extra flavor, brush slices with olive oil or melted butter and season before microwaving.
Get Creative with Your Microwaved Pork Roll
Basic microwaved Taylor pork roll makes a quick and easy meal, but why stop there? Use your microwave-cooked pork roll in fun and creative ways:
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Sandwiches – Pile pork roll slices onto bread, rolls, or bagels with eggs and cheese for a fast hot breakfast sandwich.
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Quesadillas – Mix diced pork roll with shredded cheese and microwave between tortillas for a tasty lunch.
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Egg Rolls – Chop up pork roll and add to ground pork, cabbage, and vegetables for DIY egg rolls.
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Pizza Topping – Microwave plain or seasoned pork roll slices, then add them to frozen or homemade pizza.
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Salads – Cube microwaved pork roll and add it to hearty salad recipes, pastas, or grain bowls for a protein punch.
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Snacks – Enjoy microwaved pork roll slices on their own, or dip in mustards, ketchup, or other condiments.
So next time you’re craving the classic taste of Taylor pork roll, skip the stove and break out your microwave. In just 60 seconds, you can be enjoying delicious pork roll, Jersey style. Give this quick and easy microwave method a try today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook Taylor pork roll in the microwave?
- Thin slices take 30 seconds to 1 minute. Thicker cuts can take 1-3 minutes depending on thickness and microwave wattage. Always microwave in short increments and check frequently to prevent overcooking.
Can you eat microwaved pork roll cold?
- Yes, microwaved Taylor pork roll can absolutely be eaten cold and makes a great fridge staple. Just store fully cooked microwaved pork roll slices in an airtight container and grab slices as needed for sandwiches, salads, and snacks.
Is microwaved pork roll safe to eat?
- Yes, as long as the pork roll reaches the safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F, microwaving is a safe cooking method. Use a food thermometer to verify temperature. Also, let the pork roll rest for 1-2 minutes before eating.
Should you cover pork roll when microwaving?
- Yes, always cover pork roll loosely with a lid or vented plastic wrap when microwaving. This prevents moisture loss and helps the pork roll heat evenly.
Can you microwave pork roll from frozen?
- Frozen pork roll can be microwaved, but it may become tough or dry. For best texture and flavor, thaw frozen pork roll in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and microwaving.
With this simple microwave cooking method, you can start enjoying the iconic taste of Taylor pork roll in record time. Ditch the frying pan and make quick work of delicious Jersey-style pork roll anytime with the magic of your microwave.
