New Jersey

Pork Roll Tacos

The iconic Jersey breakfast goes handheld! Crispy Taylor ham (or pork roll, depending on what part of NJ you're from), a perfectly fried egg, and melted American cheese wrapped in a warm tortilla. It's the SPK&C experience, taco-fied.

⏱ Total 20min 🍴 Serves 4 🌅 Breakfast 🥩 Jersey Classic

Equipment Needed

🍳 Large Skillet
🥄 Spatula
🔪 Sharp Knife
🥖 Cutting Board

Instructions

1

Prep the pork roll: Make 4 small cuts from the edge toward the center of each pork roll slice. This classic technique prevents the slices from curling up into a dome while cooking.

Tip: The debate between "Taylor ham" and "pork roll" divides New Jersey. North Jersey says Taylor ham, South Jersey says pork roll. Either way, it's delicious!
2

Cook the pork roll: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork roll slices (no oil needed - they have enough fat). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the edges are crispy and caramelized. Work in batches if needed.

3

Set aside and keep warm: Transfer cooked pork roll to a plate and tent with foil. Don't wipe the skillet - that flavorful fat is gold for cooking the eggs.

4

Fry the eggs: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet. Crack eggs into the pan, being careful not to break the yolks. Season with salt and pepper. Fry until whites are set but yolks are still runny, about 3-4 minutes.

5

Add cheese: Place a slice of American cheese on each fried egg during the last 30 seconds of cooking. Cover briefly to help the cheese melt.

6

Warm tortillas: In a separate dry skillet, warm tortillas for 30 seconds per side. Or char them over a gas flame for authentic flavor.

7

Chop the pork roll: Cut the cooked pork roll slices into strips or bite-sized pieces for easier eating in taco form.

8

Assemble: Place chopped pork roll on each tortilla. Top with a cheese-covered fried egg. Add salt, pepper, and a generous squirt of ketchup - the classic "SPK" (salt, pepper, ketchup) combo is essential!

9

Serve immediately: These tacos are best enjoyed hot with the yolk still runny. Break the yolk with your first bite for maximum deliciousness. Add hot sauce if desired.

💡 Pro Tips & Variations

  • Get the real thing: Taylor Provisions makes the original Taylor Pork Roll. Case's is another popular brand. Look for them at delis or order online if you're outside NJ.
  • Crispy edges are key: Don't rush the pork roll cooking. Those caramelized, slightly crispy edges are what makes it special.
  • Cheese matters: American cheese is traditional and melts perfectly. Sharp cheddar works too, but it's not quite the same experience.
  • Over easy or fried hard? Traditionally the egg is fried hard on a roll, but runny yolks make tacos extra indulgent. Your call!
  • Make it a Jersey Diner Special: Add hash browns inside the taco for the full breakfast experience.
  • Don't skip the ketchup: Yes, really. SPK is the New Jersey way. Trust the process.
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