What is Pork Roll?
My earliest memories of pork roll go back to my childhood
growing up in Ewing Twp. NJ. I remember
the smell of sweet smokiness filling the air as my Mom, Dad or siblings fried
the German Sausage in the black cast iron pan.
I remember asking why 3 to 4 small slices were placed around the
perimeter. “That’s to prevent the slice
from bubbling.” In those days my sandwich was on white Wonder Bread with
ketchup.
As I grew in age and responsibility my cooking efforts of
pork roll included the addition of sautéed onions, peppers, carrots, topped
with cheese on wheat bread. This is what
my Mom enjoyed. I now call this the
“Phoebe Lee.”
In college pork roll was a staple and enjoyed throughout the
day; breakfast with eggs, lunch as a sandwich, dinner on a plate with sides and
of course late night snacks making up any and all options.
2016 marks the 3rd Edition of pork roll festival(s)
in New Jersey’s Capital City of Trenton.
During one of our many chats, brainstorming sessions etc., Scott Miller,
Owner of Exit 7A Studios told me he was thinking of having a Pork Roll
festival. I thought the idea was awesome
and encouraged him to move ahead with planning.
He did and held the 1st Pork Roll Festival at TC Nelson’s
location Trenton Social. The first event
was very well attended and probably a bit overwhelming for all involved.
After the event Scott decided he wanted to take the event in
another direction. This led to a series
of actions by both parties and now we have 2 Pork Roll Festivals. That history is very public and easily
accessible via an Internet search, if you have interest.
Scott Miller’s – The Original Pork Roll Festival (registered
trademark)
TC Nelson’s – Trenton Pork Roll Festival
Each festival offers plenty to see, do and enjoy, they are
also quite distinct in styles. I suggest
you visit the websites of each festival for details.
In the interim here are a few items I would like to
highlight.
The Original Pork Roll Festival
- · Located in a public park, which can easily accommodate 1000’s of visitors. The park layout offers lots of space for attendees to walk around the location of the Battles of Trenton
- · Pork Roll Queen competition
- · Pork Roll Recipe Contest
The Trenton Pork Festival
- · Takes place at Trenton Social, a thriving brick & mortar business that has become a hub for live music, art and various gatherings in Trenton NJ.
- · The Pork Roll Out Bike Tour
- · VIP Area
I suggested and would like to see(n) a friendly competition
between the businessmen where Pork Roll became(becomes) the official meat of
Trenton NJ. Think of Philadelphia and
the cheesesteak competition between Pat’s and Gino’s. I can see it now, “Pork Roll Purveyor’s Case and
Taylor’s to decide which festival they will sponsor.” “Pork Roll Festival Creators to announce this
years theme at the Annual Pork Roll Event Announcement and Block Party.
In closing I consider Scott and TC my friends, I support the
efforts of both men and know they want to have thriving businesses in Trenton
NJ. We have lots to see, do and explore
in the Capital City of Trenton NJ and I encourage you to visit. If you would like, get in touch and I will
personally help you with the coordination.
trenton365show@gmail.com
