Pastrami, that smoky, peppery, and utterly irresistible cured beef, stands as a culinary icon. But what truly elevates pastrami from a delicious deli meat to an unforgettable dining experience? The answer lies in understanding the art of flavor pairing. This isn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about creating a symphony of tastes that complement and enhance the pastrami’s unique profile. Let’s embark on a delicious journey to explore the world of pastrami accompaniments, uncovering the perfect partners for this king of cured meats.
The Foundations: Bread, Cheese, and Condiments
The classic pastrami sandwich reigns supreme for a reason. It’s a masterclass in simplicity, yet the interplay of textures and flavors is anything but basic. Let’s break down the core components and discover how to optimize each element.
Bread: The Unsung Hero
The bread serves as the foundation, both literally and figuratively. Its texture and flavor should complement, not compete with, the pastrami.
Rye bread is the traditional choice, and for good reason. Its assertive flavor, often enhanced by caraway seeds, stands up beautifully to the richness of the pastrami. The slight tang of sourdough rye adds another layer of complexity.
Beyond rye, consider other sturdy options like pumpernickel or even a hearty pretzel roll. The key is to choose a bread that can hold its shape and not become soggy under the weight of the meat and condiments. A soft, enriched brioche, while delicious on its own, might be overwhelmed.
Cheese: Adding Creamy Complexity
Cheese can introduce a creamy, tangy, or sharp counterpoint to the pastrami’s savory intensity. The right cheese can elevate a pastrami sandwich from good to extraordinary.
Swiss cheese is a classic pairing, offering a nutty, slightly sweet flavor that complements the pastrami without overpowering it. Its smooth texture also provides a pleasant contrast to the meat’s chewiness.
For a bolder flavor, consider provolone or sharp cheddar. Provolone’s subtle tang and meltability make it an excellent choice for grilled pastrami sandwiches. Sharp cheddar, with its assertive bite, can cut through the richness of the pastrami and add a welcome layer of complexity.
Cream cheese can offer a different dimension. A smear of herbed cream cheese adds a tangy, creamy richness that contrasts beautifully with the spicy pastrami.
Condiments: The Flavor Amplifiers
Condiments are the finishing touch, adding that final layer of flavor and moisture.
Mustard is the quintessential pastrami companion. The sharpness of yellow mustard, the grainy texture of Dijon, or the sweet heat of honey mustard all work well, depending on your preference. A good deli mustard with horseradish offers a particularly satisfying kick.
Pickles, especially dill pickles, provide a welcome crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the pastrami. The sourness of the pickles cleanses the palate and prepares you for the next bite.
Sauerkraut, a fermented cabbage, offers a similar tangy contrast. The combination of pastrami and sauerkraut is a classic pairing, particularly in a Reuben sandwich.
A Russian dressing, with its creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor, is another popular choice for Reuben variations.
Beyond the Sandwich: Exploring Culinary Horizons
Pastrami’s versatility extends far beyond the confines of a sandwich. It can be incorporated into a wide range of dishes, adding its unique smoky and savory notes.
Pastrami in Salads: A Savory Twist
Adding thinly sliced pastrami to salads can transform a simple dish into a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Consider a classic chef salad with pastrami, hard-boiled eggs, cheese, and a variety of fresh vegetables. The pastrami adds a smoky depth that elevates the salad beyond the ordinary.
A warm potato salad with pastrami and a creamy Dijon vinaigrette is another delicious option. The saltiness of the pastrami complements the earthy potatoes and tangy dressing.
Pastrami in Appetizers: Bite-Sized Delights
Pastrami can be incorporated into a variety of appetizers, offering a savory and flavorful start to any meal.
Pastrami-wrapped dates stuffed with goat cheese are a sweet and savory delight. The saltiness of the pastrami complements the sweetness of the dates and the tanginess of the goat cheese.
Pastrami sliders on mini brioche buns with Swiss cheese and mustard are a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Pastrami crisps made from thinly sliced pastrami baked until crispy are a simple yet satisfying snack.
Pastrami in Main Courses: A Bold Statement
Pastrami can be the star of the show in a variety of main courses, adding its unique flavor to dishes both familiar and innovative.
A pastrami hash with potatoes, onions, and peppers is a hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option. Top it with a fried egg for added richness.
Pastrami mac and cheese is a decadent and comforting dish. The smoky pastrami adds a savory depth to the creamy cheese sauce.
Pastrami pizza with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese is a unique and flavorful twist on a classic.
Side Dish Sensations: Complements to the King
Choosing the right side dishes is crucial for creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal with pastrami. The sides should complement the pastrami’s richness and provide textural and flavor contrasts.
Classic Sides: The Tried and True
Some side dishes are simply synonymous with pastrami.
Potato salad, whether creamy or vinegar-based, is a classic choice. The creamy texture and mild flavor of the potato salad provide a pleasant contrast to the richness of the pastrami.
Coleslaw, with its crunchy texture and tangy dressing, is another popular option. The acidity of the coleslaw cuts through the richness of the pastrami.
French fries, whether classic or sweet potato, are always a welcome addition. The salty, crispy fries provide a satisfying contrast to the savory pastrami.
Creative Sides: Expanding the Palate
Beyond the classics, there are many other side dishes that pair beautifully with pastrami.
Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or parsnips, offer a healthy and flavorful option. The sweetness of the roasted vegetables complements the savory pastrami.
Pickled vegetables, such as cucumbers, carrots, or beets, provide a tangy and refreshing contrast.
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing and palate-cleansing option.
Drinks that Dance with Pastrami
The right beverage can enhance the dining experience by complementing and contrasting with the flavors of the pastrami.
Beer: A Classic Pairing
A good beer can cut through the richness of the pastrami and cleanse the palate.
Lagers, especially those with a slightly hoppy character, are a good choice.
IPAs, with their bold hop flavors, can also pair well, but be sure to choose one that isn’t too overpowering.
Stouts and porters, with their roasted malt flavors, can be a surprisingly good match for pastrami, especially if the pastrami has a pronounced smoky flavor.
Wine: A Sophisticated Sip
Wine can also be a good pairing for pastrami, but it’s important to choose the right varietal.
Riesling, with its acidity and slight sweetness, can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pastrami.
Pinot Noir, with its earthy and fruity notes, can also pair well, especially if the pastrami is served with roasted vegetables.
Rosé, with its refreshing acidity and fruity flavors, is a versatile option that can pair well with a variety of pastrami dishes.
Other Beverages: Beyond Beer and Wine
Don’t limit yourself to beer and wine. Other beverages can also be excellent pairings for pastrami.
Dr. Brown’s Cel-Ray Soda is a classic deli pairing, its celery flavor surprisingly complementary to pastrami.
Iced tea, especially unsweetened, can be a refreshing and palate-cleansing option.
A classic Manhattan cocktail, with its rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, is a sophisticated and flavorful pairing.
In conclusion, the art of pairing flavors with pastrami is a journey of exploration and personal preference. By understanding the core elements of bread, cheese, and condiments, and by venturing beyond the traditional sandwich, you can unlock a world of culinary possibilities. Whether you’re creating a simple weeknight meal or a gourmet feast, the right accompaniments can elevate pastrami from a delicious deli meat to an unforgettable dining experience. Remember to consider texture, flavor contrasts, and personal preferences to create the perfect pastrami pairing for your palate.
What are some classic bread choices for a pastrami sandwich?
Traditional pastrami sandwiches often feature rye bread, specifically light or seeded rye. The slight tanginess and robust flavor of rye complement the rich, smoky taste of the pastrami beautifully. A sturdy rye bread can also hold up well to the often generous portions of meat and other sandwich fillings, preventing it from becoming soggy or falling apart.
Beyond rye, some people also enjoy pastrami on sourdough or even pretzel bread. Sourdough offers a different kind of tang and a chewier texture, while pretzel bread brings a slightly sweet and salty element to the mix. Experimenting with different bread types can allow you to personalize your pastrami experience and discover your preferred flavor combination.
What condiments pair well with pastrami?
Mustard is the undisputed king of pastrami condiments. Yellow mustard offers a classic, sharp bite, while brown mustard provides a deeper, more complex flavor profile. Spicy mustard varieties, like horseradish mustard or Dijon, can also add a welcome kick to the sandwich, cutting through the richness of the meat.
Beyond mustard, pickles are another essential pairing. Dill pickles offer a refreshing, tangy contrast to the smoky and savory pastrami. Some people also enjoy using Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing for a creamier, tangier option. Ultimately, the best condiment is a matter of personal preference, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect match.
Are there any cheeses that complement pastrami?
While not traditionally included, certain cheeses can enhance the flavor of a pastrami sandwich. Swiss cheese is a popular choice due to its mild, nutty flavor that doesn’t overpower the pastrami. It melts well and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich.
Other cheese options include provolone, which offers a slightly sharper and more assertive flavor, and sometimes even a mild cheddar for a comforting and familiar taste. The key is to choose a cheese that complements, rather than competes with, the strong flavor of the pastrami. Avoid strongly flavored cheeses like blue cheese or sharp cheddar, as they can easily overwhelm the meat.
What side dishes are typically served with pastrami?
Classic side dishes for pastrami often include coleslaw or potato salad. Coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch and tangy sweetness that balances the richness of the pastrami. Potato salad, whether creamy or vinegar-based, offers a hearty and satisfying accompaniment.
Other popular choices include pickles, which complement the pastrami’s savory flavor, and french fries for a classic comfort food pairing. Some people also enjoy serving pastrami with a simple green salad to add a touch of freshness and lightness to the meal. The best side dish will depend on your personal preferences and the overall style of the meal.
Can you create a pastrami-based appetizer or snack?
Yes, pastrami can be used to create delicious appetizers and snacks. One popular option is pastrami-stuffed mushrooms, where cooked pastrami is mixed with breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese and used to fill mushroom caps before baking. Another option is pastrami-wrapped dates, which offer a sweet and savory combination.
For a simple snack, you can create pastrami roll-ups by wrapping thin slices of pastrami around cream cheese or a dill pickle spear. Pastrami can also be chopped and added to dips or used as a topping for crackers or crostini. The possibilities are endless, limited only by your creativity.
What vegetables pair well with pastrami in a wrap or sandwich?
When incorporating vegetables into a pastrami wrap or sandwich, it’s important to choose those that complement the meat’s rich flavor. Pickled vegetables, such as sauerkraut or kimchi, are excellent choices due to their tangy and slightly sour flavor, which helps to cut through the richness of the pastrami.
Other vegetables that work well include sliced pickles, shredded lettuce for a bit of crunch, and thinly sliced onions. Some people also enjoy adding sliced tomatoes, though it’s important to ensure they are ripe and flavorful so they don’t taste bland. Avoid vegetables with strong or overpowering flavors, as they can mask the taste of the pastrami.
Are there any unexpected flavor combinations that work with pastrami?
While traditionally paired with savory flavors, pastrami can also be surprisingly delicious when combined with sweet or fruity elements. For example, a pastrami and fig jam sandwich offers a delightful combination of salty and sweet. The sweetness of the fig jam complements the smoky and savory flavor of the pastrami.
Another unexpected pairing is pastrami with caramelized onions and apple slices. The sweetness of the caramelized onions and the tartness of the apples create a complex and balanced flavor profile. Experimenting with different flavor combinations can lead to exciting culinary discoveries.