Are you a fan of Taylor Pork Roll, also known as Taylor Ham?
This New Jersey specialty has been a breakfast staple for over a century, with its unique taste and texture.
But have you ever wondered if it’s safe to eat raw?
In this article, we’ll explore the risks of consuming uncooked pork roll and why it’s important to cook it thoroughly before enjoying.
So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive into the world of Taylor Pork Roll!
Can You Eat Taylor Pork Roll Raw?
The short answer is no, you should not eat Taylor Pork Roll raw. While the meat is fully cooked before packaging, it’s not advisable to consume it without cooking it first.
Raw pork products, including pork roll, can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can make you sick. One such parasite is Trichinella Spiralis, which can cause trichinosis, a serious illness that can lead to muscle pain, fever, and even death in severe cases.
Cooking pork roll thoroughly is the best way to ensure that any potential bacteria or parasites are killed off. This means frying or grilling the meat until it’s browned on both sides and heated through.
What Is Taylor Pork Roll?
Taylor Pork Roll, also known as Taylor Ham, is a processed pork product that was developed by John Taylor in Trenton, New Jersey in 1856. It is made with a blend of spices, salt, sugar cure, and preservatives, and is smoked before being packaged. While other companies produce pork roll, Taylor Provisions of Trenton is the original manufacturer and is responsible for creating the product’s other name, John Taylor’s Original Pork Roll.
Taylor Pork Roll is available in both tube-like casing and pre-sliced forms. It is commonly consumed as a breakfast meat and is often served on a hard roll with mustard. While people in northern New Jersey still refer to it as Taylor Ham, people in the Philadelphia area and South Jersey typically call it pork roll.
Despite being fully cooked before packaging, it is not safe to eat Taylor Pork Roll raw due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria and parasites. It should always be cooked thoroughly by frying or grilling until it’s browned on both sides and heated through to ensure any potential bacteria or parasites are killed off.
Is It Safe To Eat Raw Pork Roll?
It’s important to note that even though Taylor Pork Roll is fully cooked before packaging, it’s still not safe to eat it raw. The meat could still potentially contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause foodborne illnesses.
One of the most common parasites found in pork is Trichinella Spiralis, which can cause trichinosis. This parasitic infection can lead to muscle pain, fever, and other serious symptoms. Eating raw or undercooked pork roll increases your risk of contracting this illness.
To ensure your safety, it’s crucial to cook pork roll thoroughly before consuming it. This means frying or grilling the meat until it’s browned on both sides and heated through. This will help to kill off any potential bacteria or parasites that may be present in the meat.
Risks Of Consuming Raw Pork Roll
Consuming raw pork roll can pose several risks to your health. As mentioned above, pork products can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause foodborne illnesses. In the case of pork roll, Trichinella Spiralis is a common parasite that can cause trichinosis if consumed raw or undercooked.
Trichinosis is a serious illness that can lead to muscle pain, fever, and swelling around the eyes. In severe cases, it can even lead to heart and breathing problems, and in rare cases, death. Other potential health risks associated with consuming raw or undercooked pork roll include Yersinia enterocolitica and swine streptococcus infection, which can cause gastrointestinal issues and even meningitis.
It’s important to note that even though pork roll is fully cooked before packaging, it’s still not safe to consume it raw. The smoking process used to preserve the meat does not necessarily kill off all bacteria or parasites that may be present. Therefore, it’s crucial to cook the meat thoroughly before consuming it to ensure that any potential harmful substances are eliminated.
Proper Cooking Methods For Taylor Pork Roll
When it comes to cooking Taylor Pork Roll, there are a few different methods you can use. One popular option is to fry it in a pan with a little bit of butter or oil. Simply slice the pork roll into thin rounds and place them in a hot pan. Cook for a few minutes on each side, until the meat is browned and crispy.
Another option is to grill the pork roll. Heat up your grill to medium-high heat and place the pork roll slices directly on the grates. Cook for a few minutes on each side, until the meat is cooked through and has grill marks.
For those who prefer a more hands-off approach, you can also cook Taylor Pork Roll using an immersion circulator. Preheat the circulator to 150°F and cook the pork roll for 2 hours or until it reaches an internal temperature of 150°F.
No matter which cooking method you choose, it’s important to make sure that the pork roll is fully cooked before consuming it. This will help ensure that any potential bacteria or parasites are destroyed, making it safe to eat.
Delicious Ways To Enjoy Cooked Taylor Pork Roll
While eating Taylor Pork Roll raw is not recommended, there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy it once it’s been cooked. In New Jersey, pork roll is a staple ingredient in many breakfast sandwiches, but it can also be used in a variety of other dishes.
One popular way to enjoy cooked Taylor Pork Roll is to add it to a burger. The salty flavor of the meat pairs perfectly with the savory taste of beef, and it adds an extra layer of texture to the burger.
Another tasty option is to use cooked pork roll as a topping for pizza. The salty flavor of the meat pairs well with the sweetness of tomato sauce and the gooeyness of melted cheese. It’s a delicious twist on a classic favorite.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, try making a grilled cheese sandwich with cooked Taylor Pork Roll. Simply layer the meat between two slices of bread with your favorite cheese and grill until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try making a breakfast burrito with cooked pork roll. Scramble some eggs and add them to a tortilla along with some cheese and cooked pork roll. It’s a hearty and satisfying way to start your day.
