Pastrami: A Jewish Deli Classic

Pastrami is a smoked meat that is quintessentially Jewish and has been enjoyed for centuries. This tasty treat is made by taking a cut of beef brisket and rubbing it with a combination of herbs, spices, salt, and sugar. Then the meat is left to dry cure for several days before being smoked slowly over hardwood. The end result is a succulent piece of meat that is bursting with flavor.

History

The origins of pastrami can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire. The Ottoman Turks introduced a method of preserving meat that involved salting it heavily, then leaving it to dry in the sun. This process, known as ""pastirma"" in Turkish, was believed to have been brought to the United States by Jewish immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name was anglicized to ""pastrami,"" and the rest, as they say, is history.

Traditional Serving Style

Pastrami is typically served in a classic deli-style sandwich with rye bread, mustard, and a dill pickle on the side. The sandwich is often grilled or pan-fried, which brings out the smoky flavor of the pastrami. Alternatively, pastrami can be served as a platter, thinly sliced and accompanied by a variety of sides such as coleslaw, potato salad, or pickles.

Regional Variations

New York-style Pastrami

New York-style pastrami is perhaps the most famous variation. It's characterized by its deep-red color and heavily smoked flavor, and it's typically served on rye bread with mustard. This style of pastrami is so famous that it's become a cultural icon of the city.

Montreal-style Pastrami

Montreal-style pastrami is a cousin to the New York variety, but with a few important differences. It's less heavily smoked than its New York counterpart, and it's typically served on rye bread with mustard and slaw. It's also usually cut thicker than a New York-style sandwich. Montreal-style pastrami is very popular in Canada, particularly in the city itself.

Romanian-style Pastrami

Romanian-style pastrami is similar to Montreal style, but with the addition of garlic. It's typically served with a side of pickled vegetables and is a staple of both Romanian and Jewish cuisine.

Conclusion

Pastrami is a delicious, hearty meat that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people around the world. Whether enjoyed in a classic sandwich or as part of an elaborate platter, this traditional smoked meat is always a crowd-pleaser. With its rich history and many regional variations, pastrami is truly a timeless classic.