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 sets a good pastrami sandwich apart from a great one? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of pastrami and explore the key elements that make a truly exceptional pastrami sandwich.
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 use beef navel cuts instead of pork. The resulting pastrami was a huge hit, and it quickly became a staple of New York City delis.
What Makes Great Pastrami?
So, what makes great pastrami? Here are a few key factors to consider:
- Quality of the meat: Look for pastrami that’s made from high-quality beef navel cuts. The meat should be tender, flavorful, and have a good balance of fat and lean meat.
- Spice blend: A good pastrami spice blend should include a combination of spices like coriander, mustard seeds, and paprika. The spice blend should be balanced and not overpowering.
- Curing process: The curing process is what gives pastrami its distinctive flavor and texture. Look for pastrami that’s been cured for at least 5 days to allow the flavors to penetrate deep into the meat.
Building the Perfect Pastrami Sandwich
Now that we’ve covered the basics of great pastrami, let’s talk about building the perfect pastrami sandwich. Here are the key elements to consider:
The Bread
The bread is the foundation of a great pastrami sandwich. Look for a dense, chewy rye bread that’s got some heft to it. A good rye bread should have a slightly sweet flavor and a crunchy crust.
What to Look for in a Rye Bread
- Density: A good rye bread should be dense and chewy, with a texture that’s similar to a hearty sourdough.
- Flavor: The bread should have a slightly sweet flavor, with a hint of caraway seeds or other spices.
- Crust: The crust should be crunchy and well-browned, with a texture that’s similar to a crusty baguette.
The Pastrami
The pastrami is the star of the show, and it’s what makes a great pastrami sandwich truly exceptional. Look for pastrami that’s been sliced thin and piled high on the bread.
How to Slice Pastrami
- Slice against the grain: To get the most tender pastrami, slice it against the grain. This will help to break down the fibers and make the meat more palatable.
- Slice thin: Slice the pastrami thin, about 1/8 inch thick. This will help to distribute the flavors evenly and make the sandwich easier to eat.
The Mustard
The mustard is what adds a tangy, creamy element to the pastrami sandwich. Look for a spicy brown mustard that’s got some kick to it.
What to Look for in a Mustard
- Flavor: The mustard should have a spicy, tangy flavor that complements the pastrami.
- Texture: The mustard should be creamy and smooth, with a texture that’s similar to mayonnaise.
The Pickles
The pickles add a crunchy, sour element to the pastrami sandwich. Look for thinly sliced dill pickles that are made with fresh cucumbers and a hint of garlic.
What to Look for in a Pickle
- Flavor: The pickles should have a sour, salty flavor that complements the pastrami.
- Texture: The pickles should be crunchy and firm, with a texture that’s similar to a fresh cucumber.
Assembling the Perfect Pastrami Sandwich
Now that we’ve covered the key elements of a great pastrami sandwich, let’s talk about assembling the perfect sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building a truly exceptional 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 fresh and has a good texture.
- Step 2: Add the pastrami: Pile high the pastrami on top of the bread, making sure to slice it thin and against the grain.
- Step 3: Add the mustard: Spread a layer of spicy brown mustard on top of the pastrami, making sure to cover the entire surface.
- Step 4: Add the pickles: Add a few slices of thinly sliced dill pickles on top of the mustard, making sure to distribute them evenly.
- Step 5: Top with the second slice of bread: Top the sandwich with a second slice of rye bread, making sure to press down gently to create a compact sandwich.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your pastrami sandwich to the next level:
- Use a panini press: A panini press can help to create a crispy, compact sandwich that’s perfect for eating on the go.
- Add some cheese: A slice of melted Swiss cheese can add a creamy, rich element to the pastrami sandwich.
- Use a different type of bread: While rye bread is traditional, you can also use other types of bread like sourdough or ciabatta to create a unique flavor profile.
Conclusion
The pastrami sandwich is a classic deli staple that’s easy to make and fun to eat. By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you can create a truly exceptional 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, this guide has got you covered. So go ahead, give it a try, and experience the delicious flavor of a perfectly crafted pastrami sandwich!
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, sourdough, and ciabatta. Rye bread is a popular choice because its slightly sweet and earthy flavor complements the savory flavor of the pastrami. Sourdough and ciabatta are also great options because their chewy texture and slightly tangy flavor add depth to the sandwich.
When selecting a bread, look for something with a bit of heft and texture. A dense, chewy bread will hold up better to the juicy pastrami and any toppings you add. Avoid using a flimsy or soft bread, as it may become soggy and fall apart.
How do I choose the best pastrami for my sandwich?
When choosing pastrami for your sandwich, look for high-quality, thickly sliced meat. Opt for pastrami that is made from the navel cut, which is the most tender and flavorful part of the brisket. You can also choose between different flavor profiles, such as classic, spicy, or smoked.
If you’re buying pastrami from a deli or butcher, ask for it to be sliced thickly, about 1/4 inch. This will ensure that the pastrami is juicy and tender. If you’re using pre-packaged pastrami, look for slices that are evenly cut and have a good balance of fat and lean meat.
What are some essential toppings for a pastrami sandwich?
Some essential toppings for a pastrami sandwich include mustard, pickles, and Swiss cheese. Mustard adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that complements the pastrami perfectly. Thinly sliced dill pickles add a nice crunch and a burst of acidity. Swiss cheese adds creaminess and helps to balance out the flavors.
Other toppings you might consider adding include coleslaw, grilled onions, or sauerkraut. Coleslaw adds a nice crunch and a bit of sweetness, while grilled onions add a depth of flavor. Sauerkraut adds a tangy, slightly sour flavor that pairs well with the pastrami.
How do I assemble the perfect pastrami sandwich?
To assemble the perfect pastrami sandwich, start by spreading a layer of mustard on the bottom slice of bread. This will help to add flavor and prevent the bread from getting soggy. Next, add a layer of pastrami, followed by any toppings you like.
Finally, top with the top slice of bread and press down gently. You want to apply enough pressure to hold the sandwich together, but not so much that you squish out all the juices. Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
Can I make a pastrami sandwich in advance?
While it’s possible to make a pastrami sandwich in advance, it’s not always the best idea. Pastrami sandwiches are best served fresh, when the bread is still crispy and the pastrami is still juicy. If you assemble the sandwich too far in advance, the bread may become soggy and the pastrami may dry out.
If you need to make a pastrami sandwich in advance, consider assembling all the ingredients except the bread, and then storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the sandwich. This will help to keep everything fresh and prevent the bread from getting soggy.
How do I store leftover pastrami sandwiches?
If you have leftover pastrami sandwiches, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a day. To keep the sandwiches fresh, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F or below.
When you’re ready to serve the sandwiches, remove them from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature. You can also reheat the sandwiches in the microwave or oven, but be careful not to overheat the pastrami, as it can become dry and tough.
Can I freeze pastrami sandwiches?
While it’s possible to freeze pastrami sandwiches, it’s not always the best idea. Freezing can cause the bread to become soggy and the pastrami to become dry and tough. If you need to freeze a pastrami sandwich, consider freezing the pastrami and bread separately, and then assembling the sandwich when you’re ready to serve it.
If you do choose to freeze a pastrami sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer at a temperature of 0°F or below. When you’re ready to serve the sandwich, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature.