Easy Instructions on How to Make Pastrami from Scratch

Easy Instructions on How to Make Pastrami from Scratch

Pastrami is a delicious, savory meat preparation that has become a popular choice for sandwiches and appetizers. While it may seem like a daunting task to make pastrami from scratch, with the right instructions and a little bit of patience, anyone can create this mouthwatering delicacy at home. In this blog, we present you with easy-to-follow steps to guide you through the process of making pastrami that will wow your taste buds.

Selecting the Right Cut of Meat

The first thing in this journey of “how do you make pastrami” is to start with selecting the right cut of beef. Traditionally, pastrami is made using the flavorful and tender beef brisket. Look for a well-marbled piece that measures about 3 to 4 pounds without excessive fat covering. This size ensures even cooking and allows for juicy slices of pastrami once it’s complete.

Preparing the Brine

The brine plays a crucial role in both flavoring and curing the meat. In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, sugar, pickling spice mix (containing coriander seeds, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and other spices), minced garlic cloves, bay leaves, and juniper berries (optional) over medium heat. Stir until all ingredients are dissolved, and bring the mixture to a boil. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before proceeding.

Brining the Beef Brisket

Place your selected beef brisket in a large container or zip-lock bag. Pour the cooled brine over the meat until it is fully submerged. Keep it refrigerated for about five days to allow proper curing. Make sure to turn the brisket occasionally during this time to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

Preparing Rub for Flavorful Crust

After the brine curing period is over, remove the brisket from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. It’s time to create a flavorful crust on your pastrami. In a small bowl, mix together crushed black peppercorns, coriander seeds, smoked paprika, brown sugar, and garlic powder. Coat the entire surface of the brisket with this dry rub mixture.

Smoking the Pastrami

Now comes the smoking process that imparts that iconic smoky flavor to your pastrami. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C) using hardwood chips such as hickory or oak for optimal flavor. Place your well-rubbed brisket on a rack in the smoker before closing it securely. Let it smoke for about five to six hours until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C).

Allowing Resting and Cooling Time

Once fully smoked, remove your pastrami from the smoker and allow it to rest for at least an hour before slicing. This resting process helps retain juiciness and allows flavors within the meat to settle before serving. It’s highly recommended that it be refrigerated overnight for better texture.

Slicing and Serving Delicious Pastrami

Your homemade pastrami is ready to be enjoyed! Using a sharp carving knife, slice thin layers of pastrami against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve it cold on rye bread with mustard or any way you prefer—sliced as deli meat, in sandwiches, or on sliders.

The Importance of Resting and Cooling Time

Resting and cooling time play a vital role in achieving the perfect texture and moisture balance for your homemade pastrami. Allowing the pastrami to rest after smoking allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product. Cooling the pastrami overnight in the refrigerator enhances its slice-ability, making it easier to achieve those coveted thin, delicately cut slices.

Tips for Flavor Variations

While traditional pastrami is made with beef brisket, there’s room for experimentation with different meats and flavor profiles. For those who prefer poultry, try using boneless turkey breast or chicken instead of beef brisket. The brining and smoking process will still work well with these alternative meats. Additionally, you can customize the flavors by adding various herbs, spices, or even a touch of heat by incorporating chili flakes or ground pepper.

Conclusion

Making pastrami from scratch is not as challenging as it may seem when following clear instructions like these. With some patience and attention to detail during each of selecting, curing, rubbing with spices, smoking, resting, and slicing, you’ll be rewarded with a mesmerizing homemade delicacy that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey. So, roll up your sleeves, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating your very own mouth-watering pastrami at home.

Flush the Fashion

Editor of Flush the Fashion and Flush Magazine. I love music, art, film, travel, food, tech and cars. Basically, everything this site is about.