Pork Roll, also known as Taylor Ham, is a New Jersey specialty. It comes in large or small rolls, or even slices for easy consumption. The name ‘Taylor Ham’ comes from the person who is credited to have created its recipe, John Taylor. He is the founder of Taylor Provisions, a leading producer of pork roll in New Jersey.
What’s Pork Roll Made Of?
Pork roll is a processed pork product. While the original Taylor recipe is said to be a secret, the most common ingredients used are pork, salt, sugar, and a mix of spices. Pork roll is essentially pork that has been cured, smoked, and then packaged in a cylindrical bag. This kind of packaging allows the buyer to easily slice the ham without removing the bag.
What Is a Pork Roll Used For?
Like bacon, eggs and pork chops, pork rolls are a popular breakfast item. It can be seen in New Jersey’s famous breakfast sandwich. Alternately, smoked pork roll is served on a bagel, English muffin, croissant or any bread of choice.
Can You Freeze a Pork Cottage Roll?
A pork cottage roll comes from the pork’s shoulder. It is a boneless pork shoulder butt which has been pickled in brine. Like a regular pork roll, it freezes and defrosts really well.
How Long Does Pork Roll Last in the Freezer?
Raw pork rolls should ideally be consumed within 1-2 months of freezing. While it can stay longer if frozen well, the taste can deteriorate over time. With the passage of time, the pork roll can also suffer freezer burn.
If you notice freezer burns on your pork rolls, remove the burnt portions as they would not taste optimal. Finally remember to check the shelf life of the product by checking its expiry date.
How Do You Defrost Frozen Pork Roll?
The best way to defrost any frozen meat is to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. The time it will take for your pork roll/taylor ham to thaw depends on the quantity. If you froze the whole packaging all together, it could take 2-3 days to defrost in the fridge. Sliced taylor pork roll will thaw faster.
For faster thawing, you can also place the frozen meat in water on the counter. Alternately, you can defrost in the microwave. However, any meat that undergoes rapid thawing should be consumed immediately.
The safest way to defrost frozen pork rolls is overnight thawing in a fridge. After thawing, place the rolls on paper towel to get rid of excess moisture. Your pork rolls are now ready to cook.
How Do You Store Rolled Pork?
For short term storage, you can put the pork roll in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. However, if you want to store your taylor pork roll away for a longer time, it is best to freeze it.
You can freeze in the original packaging or make single-serve portions, wrap in plastic wrap and freeze. Using a freezer bag also helps elongate the life of your frozen meat and prevents freezer burn.
How Long Can You Keep Pork Roll in the Refrigerator?
Pork roll can safely be kept in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. Wrap this processed pork product tightly to increase its shelf life. Try to consume it sooner than later to enjoy the best taste.
The bottom shelf of the fridge tends to be the coldest and is the best place to store the taylor pork roll.Likewise, the back of the fridge near the walls are colder than close to the door, so try to keep the pork rolls to the back.
Can You Cook Pork Roll in the Oven?
Yes, just preheat oven. Then put slices or pieces of the pork roll on parchment paper and bake at about 350 degrees, depending on the thickness of the rolls. You can also heat some olive oil and green onion in a pan and fry the pork rolls on medium heat until done.
For a healthier fried taste, use an air fryer instead. Just as you would do with a spring roll, place the pork rolls inside the air fryer and cook until done.
Can You Eat Uncooked Pork Roll?
Pork roll is a pre-processed pork product that is already cooked. However, you would need to cook them after thawing to bring up their internal temperature as they could develop harmful bacteria.
If consumed, raw pork rolls can make one sick.
How Can You Tell if Pork Is Spoiled?
Pork rolls should be kept in the fridge or freezer. Don’t leave them out for more than an hour or two. Bacteria grows fast on raw pork rolls if left out. Sometimes, the pork may not smell or taste different, but can cause food poisoning.
It is best to check the expiry date before purchasing to get a product with a longer shelf life. If the smell or taste is off, discard the pork rolls immediately. Discoloration, a slimy feel or smell are certain signs of spoilage.
What Is the Difference Between Taylor Ham and Pork Roll?
Taylor Ham and Pork Roll are essentially two names for the same pork product. In North Jersey, it goes by the name of Taylor ham. In South Jersey, it is widely known as pork roll.
New Jersey calls it Taylor ham while it is referred to as pork roll in South Jersey and Philadelphia.
If you are looking for a change from your regular pork roast, pork loin and pork chop recipes, you may enjoy the taste of pork rolls. Afterall, this New Jersey staple is popular for a reason!