The pastrami sandwich is a beloved classic, with its rich, savory flavors and tender textures. It’s a staple of delis and diners, but it’s also a dish that can be elevated to new heights with a little creativity and attention to detail. In this article, we’ll explore the art of making the best pastrami sandwich, from selecting the finest ingredients to assembling the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Choosing the Right Pastrami
The foundation of a great pastrami sandwich is, of course, the pastrami itself. This cured and smoked meat is a delicacy, with a rich, complex flavor profile that’s both savory and slightly sweet. When selecting pastrami, look for a few key characteristics:
- Thick slices: Thinly sliced pastrami can be overpowered by the other ingredients in the sandwich. Look for thick, juicy slices that will hold their own.
- Good marbling: A well-marbled pastrami will have a more complex flavor profile, with a balance of lean and fatty tissues.
- Smoky flavor: A good pastrami should have a deep, smoky flavor that’s both rich and subtle.
Some popular types of pastrami include:
- New York-style pastrami: This is the classic style, with a thick, juicy texture and a bold, smoky flavor.
- Montreal-style pastrami: This style is known for its more delicate flavor and tender texture.
- House-cured pastrami: This style is made in-house, with a unique blend of spices and seasonings.
Where to Buy Pastrami
You can find pastrami at most delis and specialty butcher shops. Some popular options include:
- Katz’s Delicatessen: This New York institution has been serving up classic pastrami sandwiches for over 100 years.
- Carnegie Deli: Another New York classic, Carnegie Deli is known for its thick, juicy pastrami.
- Local butcher shops: Many local butcher shops offer house-cured pastrami, made with love and care.
Assembling the Perfect Pastrami Sandwich
Once you’ve selected your pastrami, it’s time to assemble the perfect sandwich. Here are a few key components to consider:
- Bread: A good pastrami sandwich needs a sturdy bread that can hold up to the juicy meat and tangy condiments. Look for a dense, chewy bread with a slightly sweet flavor.
- Mustard: A classic pastrami sandwich is served with a tangy, slightly sweet mustard. Look for a high-quality deli mustard or make your own.
- Pickles: Thinly sliced dill pickles add a nice crunch and a burst of flavor to the sandwich.
- Cheese: A slice or two of melted cheese can add a rich, creamy texture to the sandwich.
Some popular bread options include:
- Rye bread: A classic choice, rye bread has a dense, chewy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
- Sourdough bread: This bread has a tangy, slightly sour flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich pastrami.
- Challah bread: This bread has a soft, fluffy texture and a slightly sweet flavor.
Building the Sandwich
To build the perfect pastrami sandwich, follow these steps:
- Lay a slice of bread on a flat surface.
- Spread a layer of mustard on the bread.
- Add a few slices of pastrami on top of the mustard.
- Add a few slices of pickle on top of the pastrami.
- Add a slice or two of cheese on top of the pickle.
- Top with another slice of bread.
Adding Some Extra Flavor
While the classic pastrami sandwich is a masterpiece, there are a few ways to add some extra flavor and texture. Here are a few ideas:
- Caramelized onions: Slow-cooked caramelized onions add a sweet, depth of flavor to the sandwich.
- Sauerkraut: A tangy, slightly sour sauerkraut adds a nice crunch and a burst of flavor.
- Grilled vegetables: Grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini add a nice texture and a burst of flavor.
Getting Creative
While the classic pastrami sandwich is a staple, there are many ways to get creative and add your own twist. Here are a few ideas:
- Pastrami grilled cheese: Add a few slices of pastrami to a grilled cheese sandwich for a rich, creamy texture.
- Pastrami Reuben: Add a few slices of pastrami to a Reuben sandwich, along with some sauerkraut and Swiss cheese.
- Pastrami banh mi: Add a few slices of pastrami to a banh mi sandwich, along with some pickled carrots and daikon.
Conclusion
The pastrami sandwich is a beloved classic, with its rich, savory flavors and tender textures. By selecting the finest ingredients and assembling the perfect combination of flavors and textures, you can create a truly unforgettable sandwich. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, there’s a pastrami sandwich out there for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and build the perfect pastrami sandwich for yourself.
| Pastrami Style | Description |
|---|---|
| New York-style pastrami | Thick, juicy texture and a bold, smoky flavor |
| Montreal-style pastrami | More delicate flavor and tender texture |
| House-cured pastrami | Unique blend of spices and seasonings |
- Katz’s Delicatessen: A New York institution serving up classic pastrami sandwiches for over 100 years
- Carnegie Deli: A New York classic known for its thick, juicy pastrami
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.