Smoked pork roll, also known as Taylor ham, is a beloved processed meat that is commonly found in New Jersey and its neighboring states. It was first created in 1856 by John Taylor of Trenton and was originally sold as taylor's prepared ham. Despite being labeled as pork roll since 1906, many people in northern New Jersey still refer to it as taylor ham. This naming debate has become a notable aspect of New Jersey culture, dividing the state along geographic lines.
The Origin of Smoked Pork Roll
Food preservation techniques, such as smoking and salting meat, have been used for centuries. Evidence of traditional ham and sausage production dates back over 2000 years. A product similar to pork roll, packed minced ham, may have been locally produced in the late 1700s.
John Taylor is credited with developing the secret recipe for pork roll in 185Another farmer and butcher from Belle Mead, George Washington Case, created his own recipe for hickory-smoked pork roll in 1870. The popularity of processed meat grew rapidly in the late 1800s, thanks to the booming American meat-packing industry.
What is Smoked Pork Roll?
Smoked pork roll is a unique regional specialty with a distinct taste. It is made from lightly smoked pork, salt, preservatives, and spices. The exact recipes for both Taylor's and Case's pork roll remain trade secrets.
The product is typically sold in cylindrical cotton sacks or vacuum-sealed sliced forms. Some variations, such as taystrips, are shaped into rectangular strips similar to bacon. The taste of smoked pork roll has been described as a cross between Canadian bacon and bacon, with a unique texture that is both crispy and slightly mushy.
Preparing and Serving Smoked Pork Roll
Smoked pork roll is commonly prepared by slicing it and then frying, searing, or griddling the slices. As the slices heat up, they naturally curl into a cup shape. To make them lay flat, a single radial cut or four inward cuts are commonly made.
Smoked pork roll is often enjoyed as part of a sandwich, frequently paired with egg and/or cheese. The classic taylor ham, egg, and cheese or pork roll, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich is a favorite in the region. It consists of fried pork roll, a fried or scrambled egg, and American cheese served on a hard roll, bagel, or English muffin.
Smoked pork roll can also be incorporated into other dishes, such as burgers, pancakes, and variations of deviled eggs. Its versatility and unique flavor make it a beloved ingredient in many New Jersey recipes.
The Name Controversy
The naming of smoked pork roll has been a point of contention in New Jersey for decades. While the product is officially labeled as pork roll, many people in northern New Jersey continue to call it taylor ham. This division over the name has become a shibboleth for identity within the state.
The debate over the name is often characterized by the condiments used with the product. People in the north tend to eat it with mustard, while those in the south prefer ketchup. The line dividing the state along this naming divide is not as clear-cut as it once was, with some restaurants in Monmouth County using the name taylor ham.
The popularity of smoked pork roll has spread beyond New Jersey, leading to an industry of mail-order delivery to other parts of the United States. Companies like the taylor ham man and jersey pork roll have capitalized on the demand for this unique regional specialty.
Producers of Smoked Pork Roll
The main producers of smoked pork roll in New Jersey are Taylor Provisions, branded as Taylor and Trenton, and Case Pork Roll, branded as Case's. Both companies have their headquarters in Trenton. Other smaller producers include Loeffler's Gourmet, Clemens Food Group, Leidys, and Rob-Dave Distributors.
These producers offer a variety of smoked pork roll products, including sliced, links, and other specialty items. Smoked pork roll can be purchased at local grocery stores, delis, and online retailers.
Smoked Pork Roll in Popular Culture
Smoked pork roll has become an iconic food in New Jersey and has a dedicated following. It has been featured in songs by the band Ween, mentioned in television shows like Bizarre Foods Delicious Destinations, and celebrated at pork roll festivals in Trenton. The sandwich featuring smoked pork roll, egg, and cheese is unofficially considered the state sandwich of New Jersey.
Whether you call it smoked pork roll or Taylor ham, there's no denying the unique and delicious flavor of this New Jersey specialty. From breakfast sandwiches to gourmet recipes, smoked pork roll adds a distinct taste to any dish. Try it for yourself and experience the flavors of the Garden State.
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