Can You Cook Taylor Ham In The Oven? The Ultimate Guide

Are you a fan of Taylor ham, the beloved processed meat product from New Jersey?

Have you ever wondered if you can cook it in the oven?

Look no further, because we’ve got the answer for you!

In this article, we’ll explore the different ways you can cook Taylor ham and whether or not the oven is a viable option.

From breakfast sandwiches to glazing and baking like a ham, we’ll cover it all.

So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn more about this salty miracle meat and how to cook it to perfection.

Can You Cook Taylor Ham In The Oven?

Yes, you can cook Taylor ham in the oven! In fact, it’s a great option if you want to cook a large amount of Taylor ham at once or if you don’t have access to a stove or grill.

To cook Taylor ham in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the Taylor ham in a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until it starts to crisp up.

Once it’s cooked, you can cut it into bite-sized pieces and serve it as is, or use it as a base for other dishes like breakfast sandwiches or even pizza toppings.

One thing to keep in mind when cooking Taylor ham in the oven is that it may not have the same crispy texture as when cooked on a stove or grill. However, it’s still a delicious and convenient option for cooking this beloved meat product.

What Is Taylor Ham?

Taylor ham, also known as pork roll, is a processed meat product made from a blend of spices, salt, sugar cure, and preservatives. It was invented in 1856 by John Taylor of Trenton, New Jersey, and was originally sold as “Taylor’s Prepared Ham.” However, due to food labeling regulations, the name had to be changed to “pork roll.”

The meat is smoked before being packaged and is commonly available in New Jersey and neighboring states. While many companies produce pork roll, Taylor Provisions is the original manufacturer responsible for its other name, Taylor ham. It is said that people in northern New Jersey still refer to it as Taylor ham, while those in the Philadelphia area and South Jersey call it pork roll.

Regardless of what it’s called, Taylor ham/pork roll is a beloved meat product in New Jersey and beyond. It can be cooked in various ways, including on a stove or grill, and even in the oven as described above. Its unique flavor and versatility make it a popular ingredient in breakfast sandwiches and other dishes.

Different Ways To Cook Taylor Ham

There are several different ways to cook Taylor ham, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Here are some popular methods:

1. Pan-fry: This is the most traditional method of cooking Taylor ham. Simply slice the ham into thin pieces and fry in a skillet until browned on both sides. This method gives the ham a crispy texture and a slightly smoky flavor.

2. Griddle: Similar to pan-frying, cooking Taylor ham on a griddle gives it a crispy texture and a slightly charred flavor. This method is great for cooking multiple slices at once.

3. Oven: As mentioned above, cooking Taylor ham in the oven is a convenient option if you need to cook a large amount at once or don’t have access to a stove or grill. However, it may not have the same crispy texture as other cooking methods.

4. Broil: Broiling Taylor ham gives it a crispy texture and caramelized flavor. Simply place the ham slices on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until browned.

5. Air fryer: For a healthier alternative, try cooking Taylor ham in an air fryer. This method gives it a crispy texture without the need for oil.

No matter which method you choose, be sure to score the edges of the ham slices before cooking to prevent them from curling up. And don’t forget to season with salt, pepper, and any other desired toppings like ketchup or hot sauce.

Baking Taylor Ham Like A Ham

When baking Taylor ham in the oven, it’s important to treat it like a ham. This means scoring the outer layer of the meat to allow it to crisp up and develop a nice crust.

To score the Taylor ham, use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a criss-cross pattern on the surface of the meat. Be careful not to cut too deeply, as you don’t want to slice through the meat entirely.

Once you’ve scored the Taylor ham, you can season it with your favorite spices or marinade. Some popular options include brown sugar, mustard, and pineapple juice.

Place the Taylor ham in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes per pound of meat. You can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 145°F.

When the Taylor ham is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. You can use any leftovers for sandwiches or salads throughout the week.

Making Taylor Ham Breakfast Sandwiches

Taylor ham breakfast sandwiches are a classic and delicious way to enjoy this beloved meat product. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:

– 4 slices of Taylor ham

– 2 eggs

– 2 slices of American cheese

– 2 Kaiser buns

– Butter

– Salt and pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and cook the Taylor ham in a baking dish for 30 minutes or until it starts to crisp up.

2. While the Taylor ham is cooking, fry the eggs in a pan with butter, breaking the yolks and seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.

3. Toast the Kaiser buns in a toaster or on a grill.

4. Once the Taylor ham is cooked, cut it into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

5. Assemble the sandwich by placing a slice of cheese on the bottom half of each Kaiser bun.

6. Add a layer of cooked Taylor ham on top of the cheese, followed by the fried eggs.

7. Top with the other half of the Kaiser bun and serve immediately.

These Taylor ham breakfast sandwiches are perfect for a quick and easy breakfast or brunch option. They’re also great for meal prepping ahead of time, as you can cook a large batch of Taylor ham in the oven and assemble the sandwiches as needed throughout the week.

Glazing Taylor Ham For A Sweet And Savory Twist

If you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your Taylor ham, glazing it with a sweet and savory sauce is a great option. Here’s how to do it:

First, prepare the glaze by mixing together brown sugar, cola, Dijon mustard, and kosher salt in a small saucepan on the stove. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to low, stirring occasionally until it thickens.

Once the glaze is ready, remove the Taylor ham from the oven and brush the glaze all over it. Make sure to coat it evenly on all sides.

Return the Taylor ham to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the glaze has caramelized and the ham is heated through.

When it’s done, remove the Taylor ham from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

The sweet and savory flavors of this glaze will add a delicious twist to your Taylor ham and make it a standout dish for any meal. Plus, it’s an easy way to elevate this classic meat product and impress your guests with minimal effort.