Discover the art of making your own Homemade Pastrami, a delicacy that embodies flavor and tradition. This recipe will guide you through the steps of brining, seasoning, and smoking the perfect pastrami, sure to impress at your next gathering or simply for a satisfying homemade sandwich.
Ingredients
To prepare Homemade Pastrami, gather the following ingredients:
- 5 pounds whole beef brisket
- 1/2 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
- 1 tablespoon crushed garlic
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup water
- Wood chips for smoking (hickory or cherry work well)
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your flavorful Homemade Pastrami:
- Prepare the brine by combining kosher salt, sugar, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, crushed garlic, mustard seeds, paprika, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Stir well.
- In a separate pot, heat the water and add the brine mixture until fully dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Place the brisket in a large Ziploc bag or a non-reactive container and pour the cooled brine over it, ensuring the meat is fully submerged. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for 5-7 days, turning the meat daily.
- After brining, remove the brisket from the solution and rinse it thoroughly under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Generously coat the entire brisket with black pepper and crushed coriander to form a crust.
- Set up your smoker to maintain a temperature of around 225°F (107°C). Add your chosen wood chips for flavoring.
- Smoke the brisket for approximately 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C). This low-and-slow process will tenderize the meat and infuse it with a rich smoky flavor.
- Once done, remove the pastrami from the smoker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Slice the pastrami against the grain into thin pieces. Serve it on rye bread with mustard, pickles, or your favorite condiments.
Your Homemade Pastrami is now ready to be enjoyed. This labor of love will elevate any meal, offering a taste of deli-style craftsmanship in the comfort of your own kitchen.
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source = www.cuisineathome.com