Pastrami sandwiches are a classic deli favorite that can be enjoyed in many parts of the world. The combination of tender, flavorful pastrami, crunchy pickles, and creamy mustard, all piled high on rye bread, is a match made in heaven. While it’s easy to grab a pastrami sandwich from your local deli, making one at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to make a delicious pastrami sandwich at home, from curing and cooking the pastrami to assembling the perfect sandwich.
Understanding Pastrami
Before we dive into the process of making a pastrami sandwich, it’s essential to understand what pastrami is and how it’s typically made. Pastrami is a type of cured meat that originated in Romania and was popularized in the United States by Jewish immigrants. It’s typically made from beef navel or plate cuts, which are cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices before being smoked or steamed to create a tender, flavorful meat.
The Curing Process
The curing process is a critical step in making pastrami. It involves applying a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices to the meat to draw out moisture and preserve the meat. The curing mixture typically includes a combination of the following ingredients:
- Kosher salt
- Brown sugar
- Pink curing salt (optional)
- Black pepper
- Coriander
- Mustard seeds
- Dried garlic
To cure the pastrami, you’ll need to mix the curing ingredients together and apply them evenly to the meat. It’s essential to make sure that the meat is coated evenly, as this will help to ensure that the pastrami is cured consistently.
Creating a Curing Mixture
Here’s a simple recipe for a curing mixture that you can use to make pastrami at home:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kosher salt | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Pink curing salt (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
| Black pepper | 2 tablespoons |
| Coriander | 1 tablespoon |
| Mustard seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried garlic | 1 tablespoon |
Mix the ingredients together until they’re well combined, then apply the mixture evenly to the meat.
Cooking the Pastrami
Once the pastrami has been cured, it’s time to cook it. There are several ways to cook pastrami, including smoking, steaming, and braising. Here, we’ll focus on steaming the pastrami, as this is a simple and effective way to cook the meat.
Steaming the Pastrami
To steam the pastrami, you’ll need a large pot with a steamer basket. Fill the pot with water, then bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, then place the pastrami in the steamer basket. Cover the pot with a lid, then steam the pastrami for 2-3 hours, or until it’s tender and flavorful.
Alternative Cooking Methods
While steaming is a great way to cook pastrami, there are other methods you can use as well. Here are a few alternatives:
- Smoking: Smoking is a great way to add flavor to the pastrami. To smoke the pastrami, you’ll need a smoker or a charcoal grill with a lid. Smoke the pastrami over low heat for 4-6 hours, or until it’s tender and flavorful.
- Braising: Braising is a great way to cook pastrami if you don’t have a steamer or smoker. To braise the pastrami, brown it in a pan on all sides, then add liquid (such as stock or wine) to the pan. Cover the pan with a lid, then cook the pastrami over low heat for 2-3 hours, or until it’s tender and flavorful.
Assembling the Pastrami Sandwich
Once the pastrami has been cooked, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- Pastrami
- Rye bread
- Mustard
- Pickles
- Swiss cheese (optional)
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread is a critical component of a pastrami sandwich. You’ll want to choose a bread that’s dense and chewy, with a slightly sweet flavor. Rye bread is a classic choice for pastrami sandwiches, as it pairs perfectly with the salty, savory flavor of the pastrami.
Adding the Mustard
Mustard is a key component of a pastrami sandwich. You’ll want to choose a mustard that’s tangy and slightly sweet, with a thick, creamy texture. Here are a few options:
- Deli mustard: This is a classic choice for pastrami sandwiches. Deli mustard is tangy and slightly sweet, with a thick, creamy texture.
- Dijon mustard: This is a slightly more upscale option for pastrami sandwiches. Dijon mustard is tangy and slightly sweet, with a smooth, creamy texture.
- Spicy mustard: If you like a little heat in your pastrami sandwich, spicy mustard is a great option. This type of mustard is tangy and slightly sweet, with a spicy kick.
Adding the Pickles
Pickles are a key component of a pastrami sandwich. You’ll want to choose a pickle that’s sour and slightly sweet, with a crunchy texture. Here are a few options:
- Dill pickles: These are a classic choice for pastrami sandwiches. Dill pickles are sour and slightly sweet, with a crunchy texture.
- Half-sour pickles: These are a slightly more upscale option for pastrami sandwiches. Half-sour pickles are sour and slightly sweet, with a crunchy texture.
- Sweet pickles: If you prefer a sweeter pickle, sweet pickles are a great option. These pickles are sweet and slightly sour, with a crunchy texture.
Adding the Cheese (Optional)
If you want to add an extra layer of flavor to your pastrami sandwich, cheese is a great option. Here are a few options:
- Swiss cheese: This is a classic choice for pastrami sandwiches. Swiss cheese is nutty and slightly sweet, with a creamy texture.
- Cheddar cheese: This is a slightly more upscale option for pastrami sandwiches. Cheddar cheese is sharp and slightly sweet, with a creamy texture.
- Provolone cheese: This is a slightly more exotic option for pastrami sandwiches. Provolone cheese is smooth and slightly sweet, with a creamy texture.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you make the perfect pastrami sandwich:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The quality of your pastrami sandwich is only as good as the ingredients you use. Choose high-quality pastrami, bread, mustard, pickles, and cheese to make the perfect sandwich.
- Experiment with different types of pastrami: While traditional pastrami is made from beef navel or plate cuts, you can also use other types of meat to make pastrami. Try using turkey or pork to make a delicious and unique pastrami sandwich.
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your pastrami sandwich, try adding some spicy mustard or pickles. You can also add some sliced jalapeños or hot peppers to give your sandwich an extra kick.
- Try a different type of bread: While rye bread is a classic choice for pastrami sandwiches, you can also try using other types of bread to make a delicious sandwich. Try using sourdough or ciabatta bread to add some extra flavor and texture to your sandwich.
By following these tips and variations, you can make the perfect pastrami sandwich at home. Whether you’re a pastrami aficionado or just looking for a delicious and easy meal, this guide has everything you need to make a mouth-watering pastrami sandwich.
What is pastrami and how does it differ from corned beef?
Pastrami is a type of cured meat that originated in Romania and was popularized in the United States by Jewish immigrants. It is typically made from beef navel or plate cuts, which are cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices before being smoked or steamed. Pastrami is known for its rich, savory flavor and tender texture.
While pastrami is often compared to corned beef, the two meats are distinct. Corned beef is made from beef brisket or round, which is cured in a saltwater brine before being boiled or steamed. Corned beef is typically milder in flavor and has a coarser texture than pastrami.
What type of bread is best for a pastrami sandwich?
The type of bread used for a pastrami sandwich is crucial, as it provides a sturdy base for the generous helping of meat and toppings. Rye bread is the traditional choice for pastrami sandwiches, and for good reason. Its dense, chewy texture and slightly sweet flavor complement the savory flavor of the pastrami perfectly.
Other types of bread, such as pumpernickel or sourdough, can also work well for pastrami sandwiches. However, it’s best to avoid using a soft, fluffy bread, as it may become overwhelmed by the juices and toppings. A crusty bread with some heft to it is essential for holding everything together.
How do I cook pastrami at home?
Cooking pastrami at home is relatively easy, and there are several methods to choose from. One popular method is to steam the pastrami, which helps to retain its moisture and flavor. To steam pastrami, simply place it in a steamer basket over boiling water and cover with a lid. Steam for about 30 minutes, or until the pastrami is tender and easily sliced.
Another method is to bake the pastrami in the oven. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the pastrami on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the pastrami is tender and caramelized. Regardless of the method, it’s essential to slice the pastrami thinly against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
What are some common toppings for a pastrami sandwich?
The toppings for a pastrami sandwich are a matter of personal preference, but some classic combinations include mustard, pickles, and Swiss cheese. A tangy mustard, such as Dijon or spicy brown mustard, helps to balance the richness of the pastrami. Thinly sliced dill pickles add a nice crunch and a burst of acidity.
Other popular toppings include coleslaw, grilled onions, and Russian dressing. Some people also like to add a layer of sauerkraut or kimchi for an extra kick of flavor. The key is to balance the flavors and textures so that each bite is a harmonious combination of flavors.
Can I make pastrami from scratch at home?
Making pastrami from scratch at home is a rewarding but time-consuming process. It requires a combination of curing, smoking, and steaming to achieve the characteristic flavor and texture of pastrami. To make pastrami from scratch, you’ll need to start with a beef navel or plate cut, which you’ll cure in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices for several days.
After curing, you’ll need to rinse and dry the meat before smoking it over low heat for several hours. Finally, you’ll steam the pastrami to tenderize it and bring out the flavors. While making pastrami from scratch can be a fun and rewarding project, it’s not for the faint of heart. It requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to experiment.
How do I store leftover pastrami?
Storing leftover pastrami requires some care to maintain its flavor and texture. The best way to store pastrami is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below. Pastrami can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
If you won’t be using the pastrami within 5 days, you can also freeze it. Wrap the pastrami tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen pastrami can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the pastrami in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
Can I use pastrami in other dishes besides sandwiches?
Pastrami is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes beyond sandwiches. One popular use is in soups, such as pastrami and bean soup or pastrami and vegetable soup. Pastrami can also be used in salads, such as a pastrami and egg salad or a pastrami and white bean salad.
Pastrami can also be used as a topping for baked potatoes, nachos, or pizza. It’s also delicious in omelets, frittatas, or quiches. The key is to think of pastrami as a flavor component that can add depth and richness to a variety of dishes. Experiment with different recipes and see what works best for you.