How to make pastrami at home without a smoker · i am a food blog from iamafoodblog.com
Introduction
Pastrami is a flavorful, tender, and spicy meat that is commonly used in sandwiches. It is made from beef brisket that is cured with spices, smoked, and then steamed to perfection. Making pastrami at home is easy, and the result is a delicious and healthier alternative to store-bought pastrami. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make pastrami at home.
Ingredients
To make pastrami, you will need the following ingredients:
5-6 pounds of beef brisket
1 cup of kosher salt
1/2 cup of brown sugar
2 tablespoons of black peppercorns
2 tablespoons of coriander seeds
2 tablespoons of mustard seeds
2 tablespoons of garlic powder
1 tablespoon of paprika
1 tablespoon of dried thyme
2 bay leaves
Wood chips (hickory or mesquite)
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make delicious pastrami at home:
Step 1: Brine the beef brisket
In a large pot, mix the kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, mustard seeds, garlic powder, paprika, dried thyme, and bay leaves with 2 quarts of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the salt and sugar have dissolved. Let the brine cool down to room temperature. Place the beef brisket in a large plastic container or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the brine over the brisket, making sure that it is completely submerged. Refrigerate for 7-10 days, turning the brisket over every day to ensure that it brines evenly.
Step 2: Smoke the brisket
After 7-10 days, remove the brisket from the brine and rinse it thoroughly under cold running water. Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Add wood chips (hickory or mesquite) to the smoker. Once the smoker has reached the desired temperature, place the brisket in the smoker and smoke it for 6-8 hours or until the internal temperature of the brisket reaches 165°F.
Step 3: Steam the brisket
After smoking the brisket, remove it from the smoker and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. Place the wrapped brisket in a roasting pan with 1 inch of water at the bottom. Cover the pan with aluminum foil. Bake the brisket in the oven at 325°F for 3-4 hours or until the internal temperature of the brisket reaches 195°F.
Step 4: Let the brisket rest
Once the brisket is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes. Slice the pastrami thinly against the grain and serve it with your favorite bread, mustard, and pickles.
Nutrition
Pastrami is a great source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. However, it is also high in sodium and fat. Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation.
Conclusion
Making pastrami at home is a fun and rewarding experience. It allows you to control the ingredients and the flavor of the meat. With this recipe, you can make delicious and healthy pastrami that is perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a snack. Try it out and impress your friends and family with your cooking skills!
