Pork roll, a savory breakfast meat with a unique flavor and texture, is a staple ingredient in many classic American breakfast sandwiches. While it can be purchased pre-made, making your own pork roll at home allows for customization and freshness. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to make pork roll, ensuring a delicious and authentic breakfast experience.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup water
Equipment:
- Food processor
- Mixing bowls
- Cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel
- Heavy skillet or Dutch oven
- Meat thermometer
Instructions:
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Prepare the pork: In a large bowl, combine the pork cubes, salt, brown sugar, black pepper, coriander, cumin, and nutmeg. Mix thoroughly to ensure that the spices are evenly distributed.
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Grind the pork: Transfer the seasoned pork to a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Do not over-process, as this can result in a mushy texture.
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Form the pork roll: Line a loaf pan with cheesecloth or a clean kitchen towel, leaving enough overhang to cover the pork. Transfer the ground pork to the loaf pan and press it down firmly to form a compact loaf. Cover the pork with the overhanging cheesecloth or towel.
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Weight the pork: Place a heavy weight, such as a can of tomatoes or a heavy skillet, on top of the pork to press it down further. This will help to remove excess moisture and create a denser texture.
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Refrigerate: Refrigerate the weighted pork roll for at least 12 hours, or up to 24 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and the pork to firm up.
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Cook the pork roll: Remove the pork roll from the refrigerator and unwrap it from the cheesecloth or towel. Heat a heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the pork roll and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
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Simmer the pork roll: Add 1/4 cup of water to the skillet or Dutch oven. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the internal temperature of the pork roll reaches 160°F.
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Cool and slice: Remove the pork roll from the heat and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or store in the refrigerator for later use.
Tips:
- For a more flavorful pork roll, use a combination of pork shoulder and pork belly.
- If you don’t have a food processor, you can grind the pork by hand using a sharp knife.
- Be sure to press the pork down firmly when forming the loaf to ensure a dense texture.
- The pork roll can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Making pork roll at home is a rewarding and delicious experience. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create a savory and authentic breakfast meat that will elevate your breakfast sandwiches to the next level.