“Hey, can I get a Taylor ham, egg and cheese? Wait, no sorry, can I get a pork roll, egg and cheese instead? That doesn’t sound right, either. How about a Taylor Pork Roll, egg and cheese?” Let’s go with that one for now, we can argue about it later.
In 1856, John Taylor invented a new pork product and named it Taylor’s Prepared Ham. After some issues on the legality of the term “ham,” the name was later changed to Taylor’s Pork, sparking a debate that has divided Northern and Southern Jersey for probably forever.
Either way, this is THE sandwich. It’s the bagel or deli shop order you say so fast it’s unintelligible to a Jersey newcomer. Try throwing in a “saltpepperketchup” for good measure. But what if you want to embrace your inner Jersey chef and take a stab at making your own Taylor brand pork roll, egg and cheese? Let’s see how making New Jersey’s official (and possibly world’s greatest) breakfast sandwich goes.
You’d be lying if you didn’t say your mouth isn’t watering just looking at this thing of beauty. Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Here are the ingredients and kitchen supplies you’re going to need, which any home cook should be able to procure.
Ingredients:
1 bagel/hard roll ($1)
1 package of Taylor Pork Roll ($3.50 for pre-sliced)
1 egg ($0.25)
1 or 2 slices of American cheese ($1.50 for pack)
Salt, pepper and ketchup to taste
Approximate total cost: $6.25
Kitchen supplies:
Stove
Large pan
Egg pan
Spatula and knife
Prep time: 2 to 3 minutes
Cook time: 5 to 6 minutes
Eating time: 5 minutes
Enjoyment time: All day, every day
Step One: Assemble and prep the ingredients. Traditionally, any bagel or hard roll will do the job, but a freshly made one from a local bagel shop or bakery is the best option. Taylor ham or pork roll (boy, is this hard to not make anyone upset) can be bought fresh or packaged from any grocery store. Eggs generally come in a dozen, but you only need one unless you want to make multiple sandwiches, in which case just multiply each ingredient by two. A single slice of American cheese will bring the sandwich together. Keep the salt, pepper and ketchup on standby.
Step One and a Half: Cut the bagel or hard roll in half with a bread knife. This is a crucial step, but don’t worry, you’re almost halfway there.
Step Two: If the pork roll is not pre-cut, it should be sliced thinly into however many slices you need for the sandwich. Either way, cut four slices into each piece of pork roll to prevent curling when the meat is cooking. Technically, the pork comes pre-cooked, so you are only heating up the meat. Add the slices of meat to a pre-greased pan over medium heat and wait for it to brown to your liking.
Step Three: Crack one egg and add it directly into the pan. Frying the egg is the best for this type of sandwich. Over easy will give you a runny yolk, while over hard will set the yolk. The American cheese can be added to the top of the egg so there’s a perfect melt.
Step Four: Assemble the sandwich. Flip the egg and cheese onto the bottom part of the roll/bagel. Lay thin slices of the cooked pork roll/Taylor ham on top of that. Salt, pepper and ketchup is recommended, but not necessary. Put the top of the bagel or roll onto the sandwich to complete your creation.
Step Five: Cut down the middle of the sandwich and pull apart the two sides, cutting through the meat and egg, while letting the melted cheese stretch out in perfect harmony.
Step Six: Take a bite and let the chewiness of the bagel or roll and saltiness of the pork roll and egg combine in your mouth for a perfect bite. Or, wrap it up in foil to keep the sandwich warm and make another one to treat someone else. They’ll appreciate it.
Congratulations, you’ve made New Jersey’s official (and possibly world’s greatest) breakfast sandwich. Now it’s time to dig in. Photo courtesy of Getty Images
Follow these steps to a tee and it’ll make for a pretty good Taylor ham/pork roll egg and cheese sandwich. Who are we kidding, this makes a perfect sandwich, and it will be undoubtedly delicious! Send in your pictures, and let us know how your Jersey classic turned out.
The Link LonkSeptember 30, 2020 at 02:00AM
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A definitive guide to making the perfect pork roll (or Taylor ham), egg and cheese sandwich - Jersey's Best
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