2 oz (56 g) Pork Roll (2 oz) contains 180 calories. Pork roll is a traditional American processed meat typically made from pork shoulder, spices, and a curing agent. It has a unique taste and is a popular breakfast food.
In addition to calories, a 2 oz serving of pork roll provides 10 grams of protein, 17 grams of fat, and less than 1 gram of carbohydrate. It is also a good source of sodium, providing 530 milligrams or 23% of the daily recommended intake.
In this article, we'll provide information on the nutritional content of pork roll, as well as some tips for preparing and storing it.
Calories and Macronutrients
As mentioned above, a 2 oz serving of pork roll contains 180 calories. In addition to calories, pork roll provides 10 grams of protein, 17 grams of fat, and less than 1 gram of carbohydrate. It is also a good source of sodium, providing 530 milligrams or 23% of the daily recommended intake. While pork roll is high in fat and sodium, it can still be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
Vitamins and Minerals
In addition to protein and sodium, pork roll contains a variety of vitamins and minerals. A 2 oz serving provides 2% of the daily recommended intake for calcium and iron, 6% for thiamin, and 10% for niacin and vitamin B12.
Low-Carb Option
For those following a low-carbohydrate diet, pork roll can be a good option. With less than 1 gram of carbohydrate per serving, pork roll is a low-carb food.
Health Benefits
While pork roll is high in fat and sodium, it can still provide some health benefits. Pork roll is a good source of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscle tissue. It also provides a variety of vitamins and minerals, including thiamin, niacin, and vitamin B12. However, to balance the high sodium content, it is important to consume pork roll in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
Cooking Ideas
Pork roll can be cooked in a variety of ways, including frying, grilling, or baking. It can be served as a breakfast meat alongside eggs and toast or used as a sandwich filling. One popular recipe is pork roll egg and cheese sandwich. To make this sandwich, fry a slice of pork roll in a non-stick skillet until lightly browned. Remove from the pan and use the same pan to cook a scrambled egg. Place the egg and pork roll on top of a toasted English muffin and top with a slice of American cheese. Another way to enjoy pork roll is in a breakfast burrito. Scramble eggs with diced pork roll, salsa, and shredded cheese. Wrap in a tortilla and serve.
Tips for Meal Prep
Pork roll can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for quick and easy meals throughout the week. To store cooked pork roll, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat in a non-stick skillet until heated through.
Regional Variations
Pork roll is a regional favorite in New Jersey and some parts of Pennsylvania. It is commonly eaten as part of a breakfast sandwich or as a snack. Pork roll is similar to Canadian bacon and ham, but has a unique flavor and texture. It is often compared to SPAM, which is another processed meat product made from pork.
How to Store Cooked Pork Roll
Cooked pork roll should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator, but can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze cooked pork roll, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer bag. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. To thaw frozen pork roll, place it in the refrigerator overnight or microwave on a low power setting until completely thawed.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Processed meats like pork roll are often high in sodium and nitrates, which can increase the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer. It is important to limit consumption of processed meats and choose leaner options, like chicken or turkey breast, more often.
Fun Facts
Pork roll was first created in Trenton, New Jersey in 1856. It is also known as Taylor ham in some parts of New Jersey, after John Taylor who is credited with inventing it. In 2016, the pork roll was designated the official State Sandwich of New Jersey.
"Pork roll is a classic breakfast meat that adds unique flavor to any dish."
FAQs about Pork Roll
What is Pork Roll?
Pork Roll, also known as Taylor Ham, is a processed meat product that originated in Trenton, New Jersey. It is typically made from ground pork and seasonings, then formed into a cylindrical shape and sliced for serving. It has a slightly salty and smoky flavor, and is often eaten as part of breakfast or as a sandwich meat.
How is Pork Roll typically served?
Pork Roll is most commonly served as a breakfast meat, often paired with eggs and cheese on a bagel or English muffin. It can also be sliced and served on a sandwich for lunch or dinner. Some people enjoy pan-frying or grilling the slices for a crispy texture.
Is Pork Roll a healthy food choice?
Pork Roll is high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium, so it is not typically considered a healthy food choice. However, like many processed meats, it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Where can I find Pork Roll?
Pork Roll is most commonly found in the northeastern United States, particularly in New Jersey and Philadelphia. It can be purchased at many grocery stores, delis, and diners in these areas. Some online retailers also offer Pork Roll for shipping.
Is Pork Roll the same thing as Canadian bacon?
No, Pork Roll is not the same thing as Canadian bacon. Canadian bacon is made from pork loin, while Pork Roll is made from ground pork. Canadian bacon is typically more lean and has a milder flavor, while Pork Roll is fattier and has a stronger, smokier flavor.