The hot pastrami sandwich is a classic New York deli staple that has been satisfying the cravings of meat lovers for generations. Thinly sliced, tender, and flavorful pastrami, piled high on rye bread and topped with a tangy slaw and melted Swiss cheese, is a match made in heaven. While it’s easy to grab a hot pastrami sandwich at your local deli, making one at home is easier than you think. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to create a mouthwatering hot pastrami sandwich that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Manhattan.
Understanding the Anatomy of a Hot Pastrami Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s break down the components of a classic hot pastrami sandwich:
- Pastrami: The star of the show, pastrami is a type of cured meat made from beef navel or plate cuts. It’s seasoned with a blend of spices, herbs, and sometimes sugar, before being smoked or steamed to perfection.
- Rye bread: A dense, dark rye bread is the traditional base for a hot pastrami sandwich. It provides a sturdy foundation for the generous helping of pastrami and toppings.
- Mustard: A tangy, spicy mustard adds a burst of flavor to the sandwich. You can use either yellow mustard or a more robust Dijon mustard, depending on your preference.
- Swiss cheese: Melted Swiss cheese adds creaminess and a nutty flavor to the sandwich.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and vinegar provides a nice contrast to the richness of the pastrami.
Choosing the Right Pastrami
When it comes to selecting pastrami for your sandwich, you have a few options:
- Delicatessen pastrami: This is the most traditional option, and you can find it at most Jewish delis or specialty meat markets. Delicatessen pastrami is typically made with a higher-quality cut of meat and is seasoned with a secret blend of spices.
- Store-bought pastrami: Many supermarkets carry pre-sliced pastrami in their deli or meat department. This is a convenient option, but the quality may vary depending on the brand and type of pastrami.
- Homemade pastrami: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try making your own pastrami from scratch. This involves curing and smoking the meat, which can be a time-consuming but rewarding process.
Preparing the Pastrami
Once you’ve selected your pastrami, it’s time to prepare it for the sandwich. Here’s how:
- Slice the pastrami thinly: Use a sharp knife to slice the pastrami into thin strips. You want the pastrami to be thin enough to fold easily, but not so thin that it falls apart.
- Heat the pastrami: Place the sliced pastrami in a steamer basket or a heatproof bowl, and steam it over boiling water for about 10-15 minutes. This will help to warm the pastrami through and make it more tender.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now it’s time to build the sandwich:
- Toast the rye bread: Toast the rye bread until it’s lightly browned and crispy. This will help to hold the sandwich together and add texture.
- Spread the mustard: Spread a layer of mustard on each slice of toasted rye bread. You can use as much or as little mustard as you like, depending on your taste.
- Add the pastrami: Place a generous helping of heated pastrami on top of the mustard. You can fold the pastrami slices in half to make them easier to handle.
- Add the cheese: Place a slice or two of Swiss cheese on top of the pastrami. You can use as much or as little cheese as you like, depending on your taste.
- Add the coleslaw: Top the cheese with a dollop of coleslaw. You can make your own coleslaw using shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, and vinegar, or use store-bought coleslaw.
Tips for Assembling the Sandwich
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when assembling the sandwich:
- Use a generous amount of pastrami: A hot pastrami sandwich is all about the pastrami, so don’t be stingy with the meat. Use a generous amount of pastrami to make the sandwich substantial and satisfying.
- Don’t overdo it with the toppings: While it’s tempting to add a lot of toppings to the sandwich, remember that the pastrami is the star of the show. Keep the toppings simple and balanced to avoid overwhelming the pastrami.
- Use a panini press or grill: If you want to get really fancy, you can use a panini press or grill to melt the cheese and toast the bread. This will add a crispy texture to the sandwich and help to melt the cheese.
Alternative Toppings and Variations
While the classic hot pastrami sandwich is a timeless favorite, you can also experiment with alternative toppings and variations to give the sandwich your own twist. Here are a few ideas:
- Add some spice: If you like a little heat in your sandwich, you can add some sliced jalapeños or hot peppers to the pastrami.
- Use different types of cheese: While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can also use other types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or even blue cheese.
- Add some caramelized onions: Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory flavor to the sandwich. Simply cook some onions in a pan with a little oil until they’re soft and caramelized.
- Use a different type of bread: While rye bread is traditional, you can also use other types of bread such as sourdough or ciabatta.
Conclusion
Making a hot pastrami sandwich at home is easier than you think, and with a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a delicious and satisfying sandwich that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re a pastrami aficionado or just looking for a new sandwich to try, this guide has everything you need to know to make a mouthwatering hot pastrami sandwich at home.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pastrami | 1 pound |
| Rye bread | 4 slices |
| Mustard | 2 tablespoons |
| Swiss cheese | 2 slices |
| Coleslaw | 1 cup |
By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a hot pastrami sandwich that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the delicious flavor of a classic New York deli staple in the comfort of your own home.
What is the best type of pastrami to use for a hot pastrami sandwich?
The best type of pastrami to use for a hot pastrami sandwich is a thick-cut, hand-carved pastrami that is made from the navel cut of beef. This type of pastrami is typically more tender and flavorful than thinly sliced pastrami, and it holds up well to being steamed or grilled. Look for pastrami that is labeled as “hand-carved” or “thick-cut” to ensure that you are getting the best quality.
When selecting a pastrami, you should also consider the level of spicing and flavoring that you prefer. Some pastramis are heavily spiced with garlic, mustard, and coriander, while others are more mildly flavored. If you like a strong, bold flavor, look for a pastrami that is labeled as “spicy” or “garlic-flavored.” If you prefer a milder flavor, look for a pastrami that is labeled as “mild” or “traditional.”
What is the best type of bread to use for a hot pastrami sandwich?
The best type of bread to use for a hot pastrami sandwich is a dense, chewy bread that can hold up to the juices and flavors of the pastrami. Rye bread is a classic choice for pastrami sandwiches, as it has a distinctive flavor and texture that complements the pastrami well. Look for a rye bread that is made with caraway seeds, as these add a nice depth of flavor to the bread.
Other types of bread that work well for pastrami sandwiches include pumpernickel bread and sourdough bread. These breads have a slightly denser texture than rye bread, but they still have a nice chew and a rich, slightly sour flavor. Avoid using a light, fluffy bread such as white bread or whole wheat bread, as these will become soggy and fall apart when filled with the juicy pastrami.
How do I steam the pastrami to make it tender and juicy?
To steam the pastrami, you will need a steamer basket and a pot with a tight-fitting lid. Fill the pot with about an inch of water, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, and place the pastrami in the steamer basket. Cover the pot with a lid, and steam the pastrami for about 30-40 minutes, or until it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
It’s also possible to steam the pastrami in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Simply place the pastrami in the slow cooker or Instant Pot, and add enough liquid to cover the pastrami. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the pastrami is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Can I grill the pastrami instead of steaming it?
Yes, you can grill the pastrami instead of steaming it. Grilling the pastrami will give it a nice crispy exterior and a smoky flavor. To grill the pastrami, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Slice the pastrami thinly, and brush it with a little bit of oil. Grill the pastrami for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until it is crispy and golden brown.
Keep in mind that grilling the pastrami will make it slightly less tender than steaming it. However, the crispy exterior and smoky flavor can be a nice addition to the sandwich. If you do choose to grill the pastrami, be sure to slice it thinly and cook it for a shorter amount of time to prevent it from becoming tough.
What are some good toppings to add to a hot pastrami sandwich?
Some good toppings to add to a hot pastrami sandwich include mustard, pickles, and Swiss cheese. Mustard adds a nice tangy flavor to the sandwich, while pickles add a nice crunch and a bit of acidity. Swiss cheese melts nicely and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich.
Other toppings that you might consider adding to a hot pastrami sandwich include coleslaw, grilled onions, and sauerkraut. Coleslaw adds a nice coolness to the sandwich, while grilled onions add a sweet and caramelized flavor. Sauerkraut adds a nice tangy flavor and a bit of crunch.
Can I make a hot pastrami sandwich in advance?
Yes, you can make a hot pastrami sandwich in advance. To do this, steam or grill the pastrami as directed, and then slice it thinly. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the pastrami on the bread, and adding any desired toppings. Wrap the sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and refrigerate them for up to a day.
To serve, simply unwrap the sandwiches and grill them in a pan until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted. You can also serve the sandwiches cold, if you prefer. Keep in mind that the sandwiches will be best if they are served within a few hours of being made, as the bread may become soggy if it sits for too long.
How do I store leftover pastrami?
To store leftover pastrami, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the pastrami for up to 3 months. To freeze the pastrami, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you are ready to use the pastrami, simply thaw it in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
It’s also possible to store leftover pastrami in a brine solution. To do this, combine the pastrami with some pickling spices and a bit of vinegar in a jar or container. Cover the jar or container with a lid, and refrigerate it for up to a week. The brine solution will help to keep the pastrami moist and flavorful.