The pastrami sandwich, a classic deli staple, has been a favorite among meat lovers for decades. With its tender, flavorful pastrami, crunchy pickles, and creamy mustard, all piled high on rye bread, it’s a match made in heaven. But what makes a truly great pastrami sandwich? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of pastrami and explore the key elements that come together to create the ultimate pastrami sandwich experience.
The History of Pastrami
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of building the perfect pastrami sandwich, let’s take a brief look at the history of pastrami. Pastrami, a type of cured meat, originated in Romania, where it was known as “pastrama.” The dish was brought to the United States by Jewish immigrants, who adapted the recipe to create the pastrami we know and love today.
In the early 20th century, pastrami became a staple of New York City’s deli scene, with iconic eateries like Katz’s Delicatessen and Carnegie Deli serving up some of the city’s best pastrami sandwiches. Today, pastrami is enjoyed all over the world, and its popularity shows no signs of waning.
The Anatomy of a Great Pastrami Sandwich
So, what makes a great pastrami sandwich? Let’s break it down:
The Bread
The foundation of any great pastrami sandwich is the bread. And when it comes to pastrami, there’s only one type of bread that will do: rye. A good rye bread should be dense and chewy, with a slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory pastrami.
When selecting a rye bread, look for one that’s made with caraway seeds, which add a subtle nutty flavor to the bread. You can also opt for a pumpernickel rye, which has a slightly sweeter and more robust flavor.
The Pastrami
Of course, the star of the show is the pastrami itself. A good pastrami should be tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Look for pastrami that’s been cured in a mixture of spices, herbs, and sometimes even wine or beer.
When slicing the pastrami, make sure to slice it thinly against the grain. This will help to ensure that the pastrami is tender and easy to chew.
The Mustard
No pastrami sandwich is complete without a generous slathering of mustard. And when it comes to pastrami, there’s only one type of mustard that will do: spicy brown mustard.
Spicy brown mustard adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to the pastrami, which helps to balance out the richness of the meat. Look for a mustard that’s made with a combination of brown mustard seeds, vinegar, and spices.
The Pickles
Finally, no pastrami sandwich is complete without a few slices of pickle. Thinly sliced dill pickles are the classic choice, but you can also opt for sweet pickles or even pickle chips.
The pickles add a nice crunch and a burst of flavor to the sandwich, which helps to balance out the richness of the pastrami.
Assembling the Perfect Pastrami Sandwich
Now that we’ve covered the key elements of a great pastrami sandwich, let’s talk about how to assemble the perfect pastrami sandwich.
Step 1: Lay Down the Bread
Start by laying down a slice of rye bread on a flat surface. Make sure the bread is sliced thinly and evenly, so that it provides a solid foundation for the rest of the sandwich.
Step 2: Add the Pastrami
Next, add a generous helping of pastrami to the bread. Make sure to slice the pastrami thinly against the grain, so that it’s tender and easy to chew.
Step 3: Add the Mustard
Now it’s time to add the mustard. Spread a generous helping of spicy brown mustard onto the pastrami, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Step 4: Add the Pickles
Finally, add a few slices of pickle to the sandwich. Thinly sliced dill pickles are the classic choice, but you can also opt for sweet pickles or even pickle chips.
Step 5: Top with the Second Slice of Bread
Finish the sandwich by topping it with a second slice of rye bread. Make sure the bread is sliced thinly and evenly, so that it provides a solid foundation for the rest of the sandwich.
Tips and Variations
While the classic pastrami sandwich is a timeless favorite, there are many ways to mix things up and add some excitement to this beloved dish. Here are a few tips and variations to try:
Add Some Cheese
One way to add some extra flavor to your pastrami sandwich is to add some cheese. Swiss cheese is a classic choice, but you can also opt for cheddar, provolone, or even blue cheese.
Add Some Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions add a sweet, depth of flavor to the pastrami sandwich that’s hard to beat. Simply cook some onions in a pan until they’re soft and caramelized, then add them to the sandwich.
Try a Different Type of Pastrami
While classic pastrami is a timeless favorite, there are many other types of pastrami to try. Smoked pastrami, for example, has a rich, smoky flavor that’s perfect for those who love barbecue.
Try a Different Type of Bread
While rye bread is the classic choice for pastrami sandwiches, there are many other types of bread to try. Pumpernickel bread, for example, has a slightly sweeter and more robust flavor than classic rye.
Conclusion
The pastrami sandwich is a classic dish that’s easy to make and fun to eat. By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a pastrami sandwich that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you’re a pastrami aficionado or just looking for a new sandwich to try, the pastrami sandwich is a timeless favorite that’s sure to hit the spot.
| Pastrami Sandwich Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Rye bread | 2 slices |
| Pastrami | 1/2 pound |
| Spicy brown mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Dill pickles | 2 slices |
By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a pastrami sandwich that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What is the ideal type of bread for a pastrami sandwich?
The ideal type of bread for a pastrami sandwich is a matter of personal preference, but classic options include rye bread and sourdough. Rye bread, in particular, is a popular choice due to its distinctive flavor and dense texture, which complements the rich flavor of the pastrami. Sourdough, on the other hand, provides a slightly tangy taste and a chewy texture that pairs well with the savory flavors of the pastrami.
When selecting a bread, look for one that is sturdy enough to hold the generous filling without becoming too soggy or falling apart. You can also consider toasting the bread to add a crispy texture and enhance the overall flavor of the sandwich.
How do I choose the perfect pastrami for my sandwich?
Choosing the perfect pastrami for your sandwich involves considering several factors, including the cut of meat, the level of curing, and the flavor profile. Look for pastrami that is made from high-quality navel cuts or plate cuts, as these tend to be more tender and flavorful. You should also consider the level of curing, with some pastrami being more heavily cured than others.
When it comes to flavor profile, you can choose from a range of options, including classic, spicy, or smoked pastrami. Classic pastrami is a timeless choice, with a balanced flavor that pairs well with a variety of toppings. Spicy pastrami, on the other hand, adds a bold kick, while smoked pastrami provides a rich, savory flavor.
What are some essential toppings for a pastrami sandwich?
While the toppings for a pastrami sandwich are largely a matter of personal preference, there are several essential toppings that can elevate the flavor and texture of the sandwich. Mustard is a classic topping, with spicy brown mustard being a popular choice. You can also consider adding sliced pickles, which provide a tangy, crunchy texture.
Other essential toppings include thinly sliced red onion, which adds a sweet and savory flavor, and Swiss cheese, which provides a creamy, melted texture. You can also consider adding some fresh arugula or lettuce, which adds a peppery flavor and a refreshing crunch.
How do I assemble the perfect pastrami sandwich?
Assembling the perfect pastrami sandwich involves layering the ingredients in a way that creates a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Start by spreading a layer of mustard on the bread, followed by a generous slice of pastrami. Add some sliced pickles and red onion on top of the pastrami, followed by a slice of Swiss cheese.
Finally, add some fresh arugula or lettuce on top of the cheese, and finish with the second slice of bread. Press the sandwich gently to ensure that the ingredients are evenly distributed, and slice it in half before serving.
Can I make my own pastrami at home?
Yes, you can make your own pastrami at home, although it does require some time and effort. To make pastrami, you will need to cure a navel cut or plate cut of beef in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. The curing process can take several days, after which the pastrami is rinsed and dried before being smoked or cooked.
Making pastrami at home allows you to control the level of curing and the flavor profile, which can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, it does require some specialized equipment, including a smoker or a slow cooker, and a bit of patience.
How do I store leftover pastrami sandwiches?
Storing leftover pastrami sandwiches requires some care to ensure that the ingredients remain fresh and flavorful. The best way to store a pastrami sandwich is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
When storing leftover pastrami sandwiches, it’s best to keep them in a single layer, rather than stacking them on top of each other. This helps to prevent the bread from becoming soggy and the ingredients from becoming compressed.
Can I customize my pastrami sandwich with different ingredients?
Yes, you can customize your pastrami sandwich with different ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Some popular variations include adding sliced turkey or roast beef to the pastrami, or using different types of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone.
You can also consider adding some caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms to the sandwich, which add a sweet and savory flavor. Other options include using different types of mustard, such as Dijon or whole-grain mustard, or adding some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.