The hot pastrami sandwich is a classic deli favorite that has been satisfying the cravings of meat lovers for generations. With its tender, flavorful pastrami, crispy rye bread, and tangy mustard, it’s a match made in heaven. But what makes a truly great hot pastrami sandwich? In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to create the perfect hot pastrami sandwich, from selecting the right ingredients to assembling the final product.
Understanding the History of the Hot Pastrami Sandwich
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of making the perfect hot pastrami sandwich, let’s take a brief look at its history. The hot pastrami sandwich originated in the early 20th century in New York City’s Jewish delis. Pastrami, a type of cured meat, was brought to the United States by Romanian immigrants, who adapted their traditional recipe to use beef navel cuts instead of pork. The first hot pastrami sandwiches were served at delis like Katz’s Delicatessen and Carnegie Deli, where they quickly became a staple of the menu.
Selecting the Right Ingredients
When it comes to making a great hot pastrami sandwich, the quality of the ingredients is paramount. Here are the key components you’ll need:
Pastrami
Pastrami is the star of the show, and you’ll want to choose a high-quality, flavorful cut. Look for pastrami that’s been cured with a blend of spices, including coriander, black pepper, and paprika. You can either buy pastrami from a deli or make your own at home (more on that later).
Rye Bread
Rye bread is the traditional bread of choice for hot pastrami sandwiches, and for good reason. Its dense, slightly sweet texture provides a perfect contrast to the salty, savory pastrami. Look for a bread that’s made with caraway seeds, which add a subtle nutty flavor.
Mustard
Mustard is the glue that holds the hot pastrami sandwich together. You’ll want to choose a tangy, slightly sweet mustard that complements the flavors of the pastrami. Traditional deli-style mustard is a good choice, but you can also experiment with other types, such as whole-grain or spicy mustard.
Cheese (Optional)
While cheese is not a traditional component of the hot pastrami sandwich, it can add a rich, creamy element to the dish. If you choose to add cheese, look for a mild, melty variety like Swiss or cheddar.
Assembling the Perfect Hot Pastrami Sandwich
Now that you have your ingredients, it’s time to assemble the perfect hot pastrami sandwich. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Slice the Pastrami
Slice the pastrami thinly against the grain, using a sharp knife. You’ll want to aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
Toast the rye bread until it’s lightly browned and crispy. This will help bring out the flavors of the bread and provide a crunchy texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread a layer of mustard on each slice of bread, then add a few slices of pastrami. If using cheese, add a slice or two on top of the pastrami.
Step 4: Add the Toppings
Add any desired toppings, such as sliced pickles or coleslaw.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the hot pastrami sandwich immediately and enjoy!
Making Your Own Pastrami at Home
While buying pastrami from a deli is convenient, making your own at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
* 5 lbs beef navel cuts
* 1 cup kosher salt
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 2 tbsp pink curing salt
* 2 tbsp black pepper
* 2 tbsp coriander
* 1 tsp paprika
* 1 tsp garlic powder
* 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, brown sugar, pink curing salt, black pepper, coriander, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Rub the spice mixture all over the beef navel cuts, making sure to coat them evenly.
3. Place the beef on a wire rack set over a rimmed baking sheet or a tray, and let it cure in the refrigerator for at least 5 days, or up to 10 days.
4. After the curing process, rinse the beef under cold running water to remove excess salt.
5. Place the beef in a large pot or Dutch oven, and add enough water to cover it. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook the pastrami for about 3 hours, or until it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove the pastrami from the pot, and let it cool to room temperature.
7. Slice the pastrami thinly against the grain, and serve.
Tips and Variations
Here are a few tips and variations to help you take your hot pastrami sandwich to the next level:
Use a Pastrami Press
A pastrami press is a specialized tool that helps to compress the pastrami and extract excess moisture. This can help to create a more tender, flavorful pastrami.
Add Some Spice
Add some diced jalapeños or serrano peppers to the pastrami for an extra kick of heat.
Try a Different Type of Bread
While rye bread is traditional, you can also experiment with other types of bread, such as sourdough or ciabatta.
Add Some Fresh Herbs
Add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, to the pastrami for a bright, refreshing flavor.
Conclusion
The hot pastrami sandwich is a classic deli favorite that’s easy to make and fun to eat. By selecting the right ingredients and following a few simple steps, you can create a truly great hot pastrami sandwich that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a pastrami aficionado or just looking to try something new, this guide has everything you need to know to make the perfect hot pastrami sandwich.
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 juicy pastrami and toppings. Rye bread is a classic choice, as it has a distinctive flavor that complements the pastrami nicely. Look for a bread that is made with caraway seeds, which add a nice texture and flavor to the sandwich.
You can also use other types of bread, such as pumpernickel or sourdough, but rye is the most traditional choice. Avoid using a light, fluffy bread, as it will get soggy and fall apart when you add the pastrami and toppings. You want a bread that can hold its own and provide a nice base for the sandwich.
How do I cook the pastrami for a hot pastrami sandwich?
To cook the pastrami for a hot pastrami sandwich, you can use a few different methods. One way is to steam the pastrami, which helps to keep it moist and tender. You can steam the pastrami by wrapping it in foil and placing it in a steamer basket over boiling water. Steam the pastrami for about 30 minutes, or until it is heated through and tender.
Another way to cook the pastrami is to slice it thinly and sauté it in a pan with some oil or butter. This method adds a nice crispy texture to the pastrami and helps to bring out its flavor. Simply slice the pastrami thinly and sauté it in a pan over medium heat until it is crispy and golden brown.
What are some common toppings for a hot pastrami sandwich?
Some common toppings for a hot pastrami sandwich include mustard, pickles, and Swiss cheese. The mustard adds a nice tangy flavor to the sandwich, while the pickles add a nice crunch and a bit of acidity. The Swiss cheese adds a creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements the pastrami nicely.
You can also add other toppings to your hot pastrami sandwich, such as coleslaw or grilled onions. The key is to balance the flavors and textures so that the sandwich is not too overwhelming. You want to be able to taste the pastrami and the other ingredients, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find the combination that works best for you.
Can I make a hot pastrami sandwich in advance?
While it is possible to make a hot pastrami sandwich in advance, it is best to assemble the sandwich just before serving. This is because the bread can get soggy if it sits for too long with the pastrami and toppings. If you need to make the sandwich in advance, you can cook the pastrami and prepare the toppings ahead of time, but wait until just before serving to assemble the sandwich.
If you do need to make the sandwich in advance, you can try toasting the bread first to help it stay crispy. You can also use a bread that is specifically designed to hold up to moisture, such as a dense rye bread. Just be aware that the sandwich may not be as fresh and flavorful as one that is made just before serving.
How do I slice the pastrami for a hot pastrami sandwich?
To slice the pastrami for a hot pastrami sandwich, you will want to use a sharp knife and slice the pastrami thinly against the grain. This will help to make the pastrami tender and easy to chew. You can slice the pastrami by hand, or use a meat slicer if you have one.
It’s also a good idea to slice the pastrami when it is cold, as this will help it to slice more evenly. You can slice the pastrami ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the sandwich. Just be sure to let the pastrami come to room temperature before serving, as this will help to bring out its flavor.
Can I use leftover pastrami to make a hot pastrami sandwich?
Yes, you can use leftover pastrami to make a hot pastrami sandwich. In fact, leftover pastrami is often even more flavorful than freshly cooked pastrami, as it has had time to sit and absorb all the flavors. Simply slice the leftover pastrami thinly and reheat it in a pan with some oil or butter until it is crispy and golden brown.
You can also use leftover pastrami to make other dishes, such as pastrami hash or pastrami soup. The key is to be creative and think of ways to use up the leftover pastrami. You can also freeze the leftover pastrami and use it later, as it freezes well and can be easily reheated.
How do I store leftover hot pastrami sandwiches?
To store leftover hot pastrami sandwiches, you will want to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate them. This will help to keep the sandwiches fresh and prevent them from drying out. You can also freeze the sandwiches, which will help to preserve them for longer.
When you are ready to eat the leftover sandwiches, simply reheat them in the microwave or oven until they are hot and crispy. You can also reheat the sandwiches in a pan with some oil or butter, which will help to add some extra flavor and texture. Just be aware that the sandwiches may not be as fresh and flavorful as ones that are made just before serving.