Taylor ham, also known as pork roll, is a type of cured meat that is popular in the Northeastern United States, particularly in New Jersey. It is typically sliced and pan-fried or grilled, but can you cook Taylor ham in the oven? The answer is yes, and it’s a great way to prepare this delicious meat. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of cooking Taylor ham in the oven and provide some tips and recipes to get you started.
The Benefits of Cooking Taylor Ham in the Oven
Cooking Taylor ham in the oven offers several benefits over traditional pan-frying or grilling methods. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider oven-cooking your Taylor ham:
- Less mess: Cooking Taylor ham in the oven is a mess-free process. You don’t have to worry about splattering grease or cleaning up a messy pan.
- Even cooking: The oven heat cooks the Taylor ham evenly, ensuring that it’s cooked to perfection every time.
- Less fat: Oven-cooking Taylor ham allows the excess fat to drip off, making it a slightly healthier option.
- Easy to cook in bulk: If you’re cooking for a crowd, oven-cooking Taylor ham is a great way to prepare large quantities at once.
How to Cook Taylor Ham in the Oven
Cooking Taylor ham in the oven is a straightforward process that requires minimal effort. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Basic Oven-Cooked Taylor Ham Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Taylor ham, sliced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
- Place the sliced Taylor ham on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and thyme.
- Brush the mixture evenly over the Taylor ham slices.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake the Taylor ham in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until it’s cooked to your desired level of crispiness.
Variations on the Basic Recipe
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can experiment with different variations to add some excitement to your Taylor ham dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Glazed Taylor ham: Brush the Taylor ham with a glaze made from honey, Dijon mustard, and thyme during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Spicy Taylor ham: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the Taylor ham before baking for an extra kick of heat.
- Herby Taylor ham: Mix some chopped fresh herbs like parsley, rosemary, or thyme into the brown sugar mixture for added flavor.
Taylor Ham Recipes to Try
Now that you know how to cook Taylor ham in the oven, here are some delicious recipe ideas to try:
Taylor Ham and Cheese Sandwiches
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bread
- 4 slices of oven-cooked Taylor ham
- 4 slices of cheese (such as cheddar or American)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Lettuce, tomato, and mustard (optional)
Instructions:
- Butter one side of each bread slice.
- Place one slice of bread, butter-side down, in a pan over medium heat.
- Top with a slice of Taylor ham, a slice of cheese, and another slice of bread (butter-side up).
- Cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Flip and cook the other side until it’s also golden brown.
Taylor Ham and Egg Breakfast Burritos
Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 4 slices of oven-cooked Taylor ham
- 4 tortillas
- Shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Salsa and sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
- Scramble the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
- Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
- Assemble the burritos by filling each tortilla with scrambled eggs, a slice of Taylor ham, and some shredded cheese.
- Add salsa and sour cream if desired.
- Roll up the burritos and serve hot.
Conclusion
Cooking Taylor ham in the oven is a delicious and easy alternative to traditional pan-frying or grilling methods. With its even cooking, less mess, and healthier options, oven-cooking Taylor ham is a great way to prepare this tasty meat. Whether you’re making a simple Taylor ham and cheese sandwich or a hearty breakfast burrito, oven-cooked Taylor ham is sure to please. So next time you’re in the mood for Taylor ham, give oven-cooking a try and experience the difference for yourself.
What is Taylor Ham and why is it popular in New Jersey?
Taylor Ham is a type of cured ham that is popular in New Jersey and surrounding areas. It is also known as pork roll and is made from ground pork that is seasoned with spices and preservatives. Taylor Ham is a staple in many New Jersey households and is often served for breakfast, typically sliced and pan-fried or grilled.
Taylor Ham’s popularity in New Jersey can be attributed to its rich history and cultural significance. The product was first introduced in the late 19th century by George Washington Case, and it quickly gained popularity throughout the state. Today, Taylor Ham is a beloved ingredient in many traditional New Jersey dishes, including the classic Taylor Ham, egg, and cheese sandwich.
What are the benefits of cooking Taylor Ham in the oven?
Cooking Taylor Ham in the oven offers several benefits, including ease of preparation and reduced mess. Unlike pan-frying, which can be messy and requires constant attention, oven-cooking allows you to simply place the Taylor Ham in the oven and let it cook. This method also helps to retain the natural juices and flavors of the Taylor Ham, resulting in a more tender and delicious final product.
Another benefit of oven-cooking Taylor Ham is that it allows for even cooking. When pan-frying, it’s easy to overcook or undercook certain areas of the Taylor Ham, but the oven heat ensures that the product is cooked consistently throughout. This results in a more enjoyable eating experience and reduces the risk of foodborne illness.
How do I cook Taylor Ham in the oven?
To cook Taylor Ham in the oven, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the Taylor Ham into thin rounds or strips, depending on your desired level of crispiness. Place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
It’s essential to keep an eye on the Taylor Ham while it’s cooking, as the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the slices and your desired level of crispiness. You can also add seasonings or glazes to the Taylor Ham before baking for extra flavor.
Can I cook frozen Taylor Ham in the oven?
Yes, you can cook frozen Taylor Ham in the oven. However, it’s essential to adjust the cooking time and temperature accordingly. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the frozen Taylor Ham for 20-25 minutes, or until thawed and crispy.
When cooking frozen Taylor Ham, it’s crucial to ensure that the product is heated to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can use a food thermometer to check the internal temperature, especially when cooking frozen products.
How do I store cooked Taylor Ham?
Cooked Taylor Ham can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. When storing cooked Taylor Ham, it’s essential to place it in an airtight container to prevent drying out and contamination.
When freezing cooked Taylor Ham, make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When reheating, simply thaw the Taylor Ham overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it in the oven or microwave until crispy and hot.
Can I use oven-cooked Taylor Ham in recipes?
Yes, oven-cooked Taylor Ham can be used in a variety of recipes, including sandwiches, salads, and pasta dishes. The crispy texture and smoky flavor of oven-cooked Taylor Ham make it an excellent addition to many recipes.
Some popular recipe ideas that use oven-cooked Taylor Ham include the classic Taylor Ham, egg, and cheese sandwich, Taylor Ham and cheese quiche, and Taylor Ham and vegetable pasta salad. You can also use oven-cooked Taylor Ham as a topping for pizzas, salads, and baked potatoes.
Is oven-cooked Taylor Ham healthier than pan-fried Taylor Ham?
Oven-cooked Taylor Ham can be a healthier alternative to pan-fried Taylor Ham, depending on the cooking method and ingredients used. When pan-frying, it’s common to add extra oil or butter, which increases the calorie and fat content of the dish.
In contrast, oven-cooking allows you to cook the Taylor Ham without adding extra oil or butter, resulting in a lower-calorie and lower-fat final product. However, it’s essential to note that Taylor Ham is still a processed meat product and should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.