Hot Pastrami Sandwich

Introduction

Get ready for a classic deli experience right in your own kitchen! The Hot Pastrami Sandwich is a true icon. It features thinly sliced, peppery pastrami, often piled high, served on rye bread with tangy mustard and pickles. Every bite is a delightful combination of savory, spicy, and sour flavors that truly satisfies.

You might think making a deli-quality sandwich at home is hard, but it’s surprisingly simple and quick. There’s very little actual cooking involved. Most of your time will be spent assembling this masterpiece. It’s perfect for a speedy lunch or a comforting dinner when you crave something special without a lot of fuss.

So, why wait for a trip to your favorite deli? You can create this incredibly delicious and satisfying sandwich in minutes. Gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy one of the best sandwiches ever. We know you’re going to love it!

Cooking Time & Prep Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 7 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes

Small tip: To make your sandwich-making even faster, lay out all your ingredients on the counter before you start. This way, everything is within easy reach!

Ingredients

This recipe makes 2 servings.

• 1 pound (about 450g) thinly sliced pastrami
• 4 slices rye bread (marble rye or seeded rye work wonderfully)
• 4 slices Swiss cheese (optional, but highly recommended)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 4 tablespoons deli-style mustard or spicy brown mustard
• 8-12 thin slices dill pickle (or half-sour pickles), for serving
• Water, for steaming (a few tablespoons)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare Your Pastrami

   Gently heat your pastrami. The best way is to steam it. Place the pastrami in a microwave-safe bowl with a few tablespoons of water, cover, and microwave for 1-2 minutes until hot and steamy. Alternatively, you can steam it in a steamer basket over simmering water for 3-5 minutes. This keeps the pastrami moist and tender.

   Small tip: Do not overheat the pastrami in the microwave, or it can become tough. Just warm it through until it’s steamy and fragrant.

2. Step 2: Toast the Rye Bread

   While the pastrami warms, lightly butter one side of each slice of rye bread. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the buttered bread slices butter-side down on the hot skillet. Toast for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

   Small tip: Keep an eye on the bread! Rye bread can toast quickly. You want a nice golden color, not burnt.

3. Step 3: Melt the Cheese (Optional)

   If you’re using Swiss cheese, place two slices of cheese on the unbuttered side of two of the toasted bread slices while they are still in the skillet. Cover the skillet for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the cheese is just melted and gooey. Remove all bread from the skillet.

   Small tip: Covering the skillet helps trap the heat and melts the cheese perfectly without over-toasting the bread.

4. Step 4: Spread the Mustard

   Now, take the two remaining slices of toasted rye bread (the ones without cheese). Spread a generous 2 tablespoons of deli-style or spicy brown mustard evenly on the unbuttered side of each slice. This mustard adds a wonderful zing that cuts through the richness of the pastrami.

   Small tip: Don’t be shy with the mustard! It’s a key flavor component of a classic pastrami sandwich.

5. Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwiches

   It’s time to build! Take the bread slices with the melted cheese (or plain if you skipped the cheese). Pile half of the hot, steamy pastrami high on top of each of these slices. Next, add your pickle slices on top of the pastrami. Finally, top each sandwich with the mustard-spread rye bread slice.

   Small tip: A tall pile of pastrami is part of the fun! Use your hands to gently compress the sandwich if it feels too tall to eat.

6. Step 6: Serve Immediately

   Press the sandwiches gently together. For easier eating, you can slice each sandwich in half diagonally. Serve your hot pastrami sandwiches immediately and enjoy every delicious bite!

   Small tip: These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet while the pastrami is hot and the bread is crisp.

Tips & Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap out the traditional rye bread for your favorite gluten-free rye-style bread or any sturdy gluten-free bread that can hold up to the fillings.
• Vegan or Vegetarian Option: For a delicious plant-based version, use thinly sliced smoked tempeh or seitan pastrami. Replace Swiss cheese with a vegan cheese alternative and ensure your mustard is vegan-friendly.
• Add More Vegetables or Protein: Boost your sandwich with a layer of creamy coleslaw, tangy sauerkraut (for a Reuben-style twist), or some caramelized onions. For extra protein, add another slice of cheese or a fried egg!
• Spicy Version: Kick up the heat by using an extra spicy brown mustard, adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the pastrami while warming, or layering in some pickled jalapeños.
• Other Useful Variations: Try different cheeses like provolone or cheddar. If you prefer a milder flavor, use yellow mustard instead of deli-style. You can also grill the assembled sandwich like a panini for a crispy, melty delight.

Nutritional Information

Approximate values per serving (based on 2 servings):

• Calories: 680-750 kcal
• Protein: 40-45g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Fat: 35-40g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary significantly depending on the specific brands of pastrami, bread, cheese, and butter used.

Health Benefits

While a hot pastrami sandwich is often seen as an indulgent treat, its components do offer some health benefits!

• Protein Power: Pastrami, while processed, is an excellent source of protein. Protein is crucial for building and repairing tissues, making enzymes and hormones, and providing energy. It also helps you feel full and satisfied.
• Fiber from Rye Bread: Rye bread, especially whole grain versions, is rich in dietary fiber. Fiber aids in digestion, helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and can contribute to a feeling of fullness, which can be beneficial for weight management.
• Bone-Building Calcium: If you include Swiss cheese, you’re getting a good dose of calcium. Calcium is vital for strong bones and teeth, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Cheese also provides additional protein.
• Antioxidants in Mustard: Many mustards, especially those made with mustard seeds, contain compounds like sinigrin, which have antioxidant properties. Mustard is also generally low in calories and fat, making it a flavorful condiment choice.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Companions: Serve your hot pastrami sandwich with classic deli sides like a creamy potato salad, crisp coleslaw, or a bag of your favorite kettle-cooked potato chips.
• Hearty Main Dish: This sandwich is substantial enough to be a complete meal on its own. It’s perfect for a satisfying lunch or a quick, comforting dinner.
• Meal Prep Ideas: While best assembled fresh, you can prep components ahead. Slice your pickles and have your mustard ready. Store pastrami and bread separately. When it’s time to eat, simply warm the pastrami and toast the bread.

Storage Tips

It’s best to enjoy hot pastrami sandwiches immediately for the freshest taste and texture. If you have leftover components, store the pastrami, bread, cheese, and pickles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The pastrami will keep for 2-3 days. Assembled sandwiches tend to get soggy and are not ideal for freezing. To reheat leftover pastrami, gently steam it again or warm it in a skillet over low heat until hot.

Conclusion

There you have it – a truly magnificent Hot Pastrami Sandwich, made with love and ease in your own kitchen! This sandwich proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques to create something incredibly satisfying. The blend of savory pastrami, tangy mustard, crisp pickles, and warm rye bread is simply irresistible.

We encourage you to try this recipe today. It’s quick, it’s comforting, and it delivers that authentic deli taste you crave. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to bring such a classic and beloved dish to your table.

So, go ahead, make this delicious sandwich. Share it with family, surprise a friend, or simply treat yourself to a moment of pure culinary joy. Happy cooking and happy eating!