Pastrami is an incredibly delicious delicacy that originates from Romania and is now mainly associated with Jewish delis in North America. The dish is made by curing beef brisket in a brine mixture of various spices and herbs before smoking it to create a rich flavor. Served on a sandwich, pastrami is typically accompanied by various spreads and condiments that help balance out its salty and smoky flavors.
If you’re a foodie who loves trying new flavor combinations or just someone who’s looking to spice up their pastrami sandwich game, this article is for you. In the following paragraphs, we’ll explore some classic and unique sauces that pair perfectly with pastrami, helping elevate this quintessential deli dish to new heights of flavor.
Classic Mustard: A Timeless Pairing for Pastrami Sandwiches
Mustard and pastrami sandwiches are undoubtedly a classic combination that has been enjoyed for ages. This pairing originates from the historic Jewish delis of New York City, where pastrami sandwiches were made with hearty rye bread and zesty yellow mustard. The sharp and pungent flavor of the mustard complements the bold and savory notes of the pastrami, making it an ideal condiment for the sandwich.
Mustard comes in various types, including yellow, Dijon, grainy, and spicy brown. Each type can add a unique flavor to the pastrami sandwich, and it all depends on personal preference. While some may prefer the balanced flavor of yellow mustard, others may opt for the subtle heat of Dijon mustard or the texture and bite of grainy mustard. With endless options, classic mustard remains a timeless pairing for pastrami sandwiches, adding a tangy and delicious component to this classic deli dish.
The Tang Factor: Why Spicy Sauces are a Natural Fit for Pastrami
Pastrami is a savory, briny meat with a bold flavor that can stand up to many different sauces. However, spicy sauces are a natural and popular pairing for pastrami due to the “tang factor”. The spiciness of these sauces provides a perfect balance to the salty, rich flavor of the pastrami.
One of the most popular spicy sauces that goes well with pastrami is mustard. Yellow mustard is a classic condiment that is commonly served with pastrami sandwiches. Brown mustard, with its deeper, spicier flavor, is also a great choice. Other spicy options include horseradish sauce and hot sauce. These sauces not only add a kick to the sandwich, but their acidity helps to cut through the richness of the meat. So, next time you have pastrami, don’t forget to add a little heat!
Saucy Experimentation: Unexpected Sauces to Try with Pastrami
Saucy Experimentation: Unexpected Sauces to Try with Pastrami
While the traditional sauces like mustard, Russian dressing, and thousand island do well with pastrami, experimenting with unusual sauces can be thrilling. Here are some of the unconventional sauces that you should try with pastrami –
1. Salsa Verde – Made from capers, garlic, parsley, and anchovies, Salsa Verde is tangy and herby. Its acidity complements the richness of pastrami.
2. Chimichurri – This Argentinean sauce made of fresh parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, lemon or lime juice and olive oil is refreshing, bright and goes well with the light pastrami.
3. Horseradish Sauce – Horseradish sauce is a classic with beef. The pungent flavors of horseradish complement the spicy and fatty flavors of pastrami.
So, the next time you are having a pastrami sandwich, don’t hesitate to get creative with your sauces. Try the above sauces or add your own twists to them and see what happens.
The Creamy Complement: Pairing Pastrami with Rich, Dairy-Based Sauces
Pastrami is a flavorful deli meat that originated in Europe, but has become a popular staple in the American sandwich culture. One of the best ways to complement its bold peppery and smoky taste is to add a creamy, dairy-based sauce which enhances the flavor profile and adds another layer of richness. The combination of sauces with pastrami can make your sandwich more tasty and satisfying.
One of the most popular creamy sauces to pair with pastrami is Russian dressing. This tangy, sweet, and creamy sauce made with ketchup, mayonnaise, sour cream, and relish, is a favorite in the New York-style Reuben sandwich. Similarly, Thousand Island dressing is another great option with similar ingredients to Russian but with slightly different ratios. Other creamy sauces to complement pastrami include horseradish sauce, aioli, or truffle mayo to add a bit of luxury and richness to your sandwich. The smooth, flavorful sauces all bring a lively contrast to the bold flavor of pastrami, making it one of the most delicious sandwich options out there.
Finding Balance: How Sweet Sauces Can Enhance the Flavors of Pastrami
When it comes to pairing sauces with pastrami, many people may not immediately think of sweet sauces. However, using a sweet sauce can actually enhance the flavors of pastrami by providing a complementary flavor profile.
One popular sweet sauce to pair with pastrami is honey mustard. The sweetness of the honey pairs well with the spicy flavors of the pastrami, while the mustard provides a tangy kick. Other sweet sauces to consider include barbecue sauce, which provides a smoky sweetness, and cranberry sauce, which can add a tart sweetness to the dish. When it comes to finding the right balance with sweet sauces and pastrami, it’s important to experiment and find the combination that works best for your tastes.
The Bold & Smoky: Barbecue Sauces that Bring Out the Best in Pastrami
Barbecue sauces have become a popular choice for pairing with meat items, and pastrami is no exception. The smoky flavor of barbecue sauce complements the texture and spice of pastrami beautifully. The different kinds of barbecue sauce available can give unique flavors to the pastrami sandwich.
The rich and bold flavor of sweet and tangy barbecue sauce adds a new dimension to the traditional pastrami sandwich. The savory-sweet blend of barbecue sauce with tender and smoky pastrami can make for an unforgettable culinary experience. For a spicier twist, you can try the hotter versions of these sauces. So, if you want to change up your pastrami game, try using a barbecue sauce of your choice to satisfy your taste buds!
Tradition Meets Innovation: Modern Sauces that Elevate Classic Pastrami Dishes.
Traditional pastrami sandwiches usually have mustard or Russian dressing, but with new flavors and ingredients being added to the culinary world, there are now modern sauces that enhance the classic pastrami dishes. Salsa verde is one of them. It is a green sauce made with herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and mint mixed with capers, garlic, and lemon juice. The tangy and bright flavors of this sauce complement the salty and smoky flavors of pastrami, making it an ideal addition to a sandwich.
Another modern sauce that complements pastrami well is the chipotle aioli. This sauce is made by mixing mayonnaise, garlic, lime juice, and finely chopped chipotle peppers. The smoky, spicy, and creamy notes of this sauce add a unique flavor dimension to the pastrami sandwich. Those looking for an innovative twist to traditional pastrami dishes can try these modern sauces or explore other new flavors to discover what suits their taste buds.
Final Words
Pastrami is a delicious meat that offers a unique flavor and texture. It can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a sandwich, and the right sauce can take this delicacy to the next level. When it comes to pairing pastrami with sauces, it’s all about finding the right balance. Some of the best options include mustard, Russian dressing, and Thousand Island dressing. Each one offers a different taste profile that can enhance the flavors of the pastrami without overpowering it.
In the end, the perfect sauce to go with pastrami will depend on personal taste. Some people prefer a bit of heat, while others prefer a milder flavor. Whatever the preference, there are plenty of sauces to choose from that will complement the unique taste of pastrami. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different sauces until you find the perfect one to accompany your next pastrami sandwich or plate.