The pastrami sandwich is an all-time favorite, especially for lovers of deli cuisine. The intense, smoky, and peppery flavor of pastrami makes it a standout ingredient. But, like all great dishes, it truly shines when paired with complementary ingredients that enhance its richness. If you’re wondering what goes well with pastrami on a sandwich, look no further. Here, we’ll explore the best breads, condiments, toppings, and sides that elevate the pastrami sandwich experience.
The Core Ingredient: Pastrami
Pastrami is the backbone of any pastrami sandwich. It’s a beef cut (often brisket) that’s been cured, smoked, and often steamed for added tenderness. Its savory, peppery flavor is best complemented with tangy and slightly acidic ingredients to cut through the richness. Understanding the distinct flavor profile of pastrami is key when choosing which other ingredients will best complement it.
The rich history of pastrami traces back to Eastern European immigrants who introduced this method of curing meat to the United States. Today, it’s a staple at iconic delis in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, offering a taste of tradition wrapped in tender, spiced beef.
Choosing the Right Bread
The bread forms the foundation of your sandwich, and when it comes to pastrami, rye bread is the gold standard. Its dense texture and slightly tangy flavor provide the perfect backdrop for the bold taste of pastrami. The nutty flavor of rye bread pairs well with the peppery notes of the cured meat.
If rye bread isn’t your preference, don’t worry—there are plenty of other options:
- Sourdough: A good alternative, sourdough has a chewy crust and a subtle tang that works well with pastrami’s richness.
- Ciabatta: For a more modern twist, ciabatta offers a light, airy texture that allows pastrami to take center stage.
- Whole Wheat: If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat adds a nutty taste and a bit more fiber.
- Bagels: In some areas, particularly on the East Coast, pastrami on a bagel is a popular option, providing a chewy texture that contrasts nicely with the tender meat.
When choosing the right bread, it’s important to consider texture as much as flavor. Bread that’s too soft may get soggy, while bread that’s too dense could overpower the other elements of the sandwich. A balance between the two will yield the best results.
For more tips on pairing bread with deli meats, check out The Kitchn’s bread pairing guide.
Mustard: The Classic Condiment
No pastrami sandwich is complete without mustard. The tangy, sharp flavor of mustard cuts through the richness of the pastrami and complements its spiced exterior. There are many types of mustard to choose from, depending on your taste:
- Spicy Brown Mustard: This is the most traditional pairing for pastrami. It has a bold, spicy flavor that stands up to the strong flavor of the meat.
- Yellow Mustard: If you prefer a milder, slightly sweet mustard, yellow mustard works as well.
- Honey Mustard: For those who like a touch of sweetness in their sandwiches, honey mustard offers a delicious contrast to pastrami’s savory profile.
Mustard not only brings tanginess to the sandwich but also provides moisture, ensuring that each bite is perfectly balanced. Experiment with different types of mustard to find the one that matches your personal preference.
For more about why mustard pairs so well with pastrami, read Cooking Facts’ breakdown of condiments【399†source】.
Pickles: The Perfect Crunch
A great pastrami sandwich has to have some crunch, and there’s no better way to add that than with pickles. The salty, briny flavor of pickles contrasts the rich pastrami, while their crunchy texture complements the tenderness of the meat. Dill pickles are a common choice, but you can experiment with different types to see what suits your taste best.
- Dill Pickles: The classic choice, offering a briny bite that complements pastrami’s bold flavor.
- Bread and Butter Pickles: For those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their sandwich, bread and butter pickles are a delicious option.
- Pickled Jalapeños: If you want to add a bit of heat to your sandwich, pickled jalapeños offer spice and acidity.
Including pickles in your pastrami sandwich not only adds flavor but also provides a necessary contrast in texture, making the sandwich more dynamic.
Sauerkraut: Tangy and Crunchy
Sauerkraut is a traditional topping for pastrami sandwiches, especially in Reubens. Made from fermented cabbage, it provides a tangy, slightly sour note that contrasts the rich pastrami beautifully. Sauerkraut adds both crunch and acidity, which is why it’s such a popular addition to many deli sandwiches.
You can also experiment with coleslaw as an alternative to sauerkraut if you prefer a creamier texture.
Sauerkraut’s acidity helps to cut through the fattiness of pastrami, creating a more balanced bite. Whether you enjoy it on a traditional pastrami on rye or use it to add tang to a modern variation, sauerkraut is a fantastic choice.
To learn more about using sauerkraut in sandwiches, check out this guide from Cooking Facts【399†source】.
Adding Cheese for Extra Flavor
Cheese and pastrami might not be the most traditional combination, but it can definitely add a new dimension to your sandwich. The right cheese can introduce creaminess and contrast, making the sandwich even more indulgent.
- Swiss Cheese: The classic choice, especially for a Reuben sandwich. Swiss cheese’s nutty, mild flavor pairs well with the boldness of pastrami without overwhelming it.
- Provolone: For a creamier texture and more subtle flavor, provolone works well with pastrami.
- Cheddar: If you prefer a sharper, more intense cheese, cheddar offers a tangy counterpoint to the rich meat.
- Pepper Jack: For those who like a little heat, pepper jack introduces spice without taking away from the star of the show—pastrami.
Cheese adds a creamy element to balance the spice and smoke of pastrami, making it a great addition to sandwiches for those who enjoy a more decadent experience.
Fresh Toppings: Vegetables and Sprouts
Vegetables can add a refreshing crunch to your pastrami sandwich. Lettuce and tomato are standard choices, adding freshness to balance the richness of the meat. If you’re looking for something a little different, try adding:
- Sprouts: Alfalfa or bean sprouts add a light, crisp texture and are packed with vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy addition.
- Onions: Raw or caramelized onions bring sweetness or bite to your sandwich, depending on how you prefer them.
Vegetables not only add texture but also make your pastrami sandwich feel lighter and more balanced. By including fresh produce, you’re ensuring that every bite is satisfying without being too heavy.
Creative Twists on the Pastrami Sandwich
While the classic pastrami sandwich on rye is a timeless favorite, there are countless variations that take this sandwich to the next level. Here are some unique ways to build your pastrami sandwich:
- California-style Pastrami: Add avocado, sprouts, and chipotle mayo for a fresh, West Coast twist.
- Pastrami Reuben: A mix of pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye bread.
- Mexican-inspired Pastrami: Use chipotle mayo, queso fresco, and pickled jalapeños for a spicy twist.
By experimenting with global flavors, you can turn a traditional pastrami sandwich into a more adventurous meal.
For more creative twists, check out this guide on global sandwich flavors at Serious Eats.
Best Sides to Serve with a Pastrami Sandwich
A pastrami sandwich is great on its own, but serving it with the right sides can enhance the meal even more. Here are some classic and creative sides that pair perfectly with pastrami:
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the smoky pastrami.
- French Fries: Crispy, salty fries are a deli classic and provide a perfect crunchy counterpart.
- Potato Salad: Creamy, tangy potato salad complements the richness of the sandwich and adds a softer texture to the meal.
- Pickles: A crisp pickle spear is a must for any pastrami sandwich lover.
These sides not only complement the flavors of pastrami but also add variety in texture and temperature, rounding out the meal.
In conclusion, the pastrami sandwich is an iconic dish that can be elevated through thoughtful pairings of bread, condiments, toppings, and sides. Whether you enjoy the classic pastrami on rye with mustard or prefer to experiment with different cheeses andWhat Goes Well with Pastrami on a Sandwich?
The pastrami sandwich is a deli staple with its bold flavors and tender, spiced meat at its heart. While pastrami is undeniably the star, the other ingredients you choose to accompany it can take the sandwich from good to great. The key to crafting the perfect pastrami sandwich lies in selecting complementary condiments, toppings, and sides that enhance its smoky, savory richness. Here’s how to build the ultimate pastrami sandwich and what you should pair it with.
The Star Ingredient: Pastrami
Pastrami is cured, smoked, and spiced beef, usually made from brisket. Its bold, peppery flavors demand toppings and condiments that can both complement and contrast its richness. Whether enjoyed in a traditional pastrami on rye or in a more modern twist, the meat should remain at the center of the sandwich’s flavors. Pastrami has a unique combination of saltiness, smokiness, and spice, making it the perfect base for a variety of toppings.
Bread Options: Rye and Beyond
While rye bread is the classic pairing for a pastrami sandwich, there are several other bread options you can explore. Each type of bread brings its own flavor and texture, so it’s important to pick one that works well with the bold flavors of the pastrami.
- Rye Bread: The most traditional choice. Its dense, slightly sour flavor pairs beautifully with the salty, spicy pastrami.
- Sourdough: Another tangy option that adds a chewiness to the sandwich, contrasting with the tender pastrami.
- Ciabatta: Offers a light, airy alternative with a crisp crust.
- Whole Wheat: For a heartier and healthier option, whole wheat adds fiber and a nutty flavor.
Pro tip: When using softer breads like ciabatta or whole wheat, lightly toast them to ensure they can handle the weight and moisture of the sandwich ingredients.
For more advice on choosing the best bread for pastrami, explore The Kitchn’s guide on bread pairings.
Mustard: The Tangy Companion
Mustard is an essential component of a pastrami sandwich. Its tanginess and spice are the perfect foil to pastrami’s salty, fatty richness. There are several types of mustard that can pair well, each bringing something unique:
- Spicy Brown Mustard: The traditional mustard for pastrami, offering a spicy kick that stands up to the boldness of the meat.
- Yellow Mustard: A milder, slightly sweeter mustard, ideal for those who prefer a less intense flavor.
- Honey Mustard: Combines sweetness and tang, adding a delightful contrast to the savory pastrami.
For more tips on why mustard is the ideal companion for pastrami, read The Cooking Facts【399†source】.
Pickles: Crunch and Acidity
The salty and sour crunch of pickles is another must-have ingredient in a pastrami sandwich. Pickles bring out the flavors of the pastrami by adding texture and a punch of acidity that helps balance the richness of the meat.
- Dill Pickles: The classic option, known for their sharp brine and crunch.
- Bread and Butter Pickles: For a touch of sweetness, these pickles contrast nicely with pastrami’s saltiness.
- Pickled Jalapeños: Add heat and acidity for a spicy variation.
Pickles don’t just add flavor—they also provide a much-needed textural contrast to the softness of the pastrami and bread.
Sauerkraut: A Tangy Tradition
Sauerkraut, a staple of Reuben sandwiches, is a fantastic addition to pastrami sandwiches as well. Its tangy, fermented flavor provides a refreshing contrast to the savory meat, while its texture offers an appealing crunch.
If you prefer something creamier, coleslaw is a great alternative. It brings a similar tanginess but with a richer, creamier mouthfeel.
For more ideas on how to incorporate sauerkraut into your sandwich, check out The Cooking Facts’ guide on sandwich toppings【399†source】.
Cheese: An Extra Layer of Flavor
While cheese isn’t a traditional topping for pastrami sandwiches, it can certainly enhance the flavor if chosen carefully. The right cheese adds creaminess and a mild flavor that complements the bold pastrami.
- Swiss Cheese: The classic choice, particularly for Reuben sandwiches. Its mild, nutty flavor pairs perfectly with pastrami.
- Cheddar: For those who prefer a stronger, tangier cheese, cheddar adds a sharp contrast to the smoky pastrami.
- Provolone: A milder option, provolone adds creaminess without overwhelming the sandwich.
For a more adventurous option, try Pepper Jack cheese to add a bit of heat.
Fresh Toppings: Vegetables for Balance
Fresh vegetables add texture and lightness to balance out the richness of the pastrami. Common choices include:
- Lettuce: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch.
- Tomato: Provides a juicy, slightly sweet contrast to the pastrami.
- Onions: For added bite, thinly sliced raw or caramelized onions can bring sweetness or sharpness, depending on your preference.
Additionally, sprouts like alfalfa or bean sprouts can introduce a fresh, crisp texture and a nutritional boost.
Creative Twists and Global Flavors
While the traditional pastrami on rye is a beloved classic, there are plenty of creative ways to reinvent the pastrami sandwich. Here are a few modern twists:
- California-Style Pastrami: Add avocado, sprouts, and chipotle mayo for a West Coast take on this deli classic.
- Pastrami Reuben: Layer pastrami with Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on grilled rye bread for a tangy, indulgent sandwich.
- Mexican-Inspired Pastrami: Try adding queso fresco, pickled jalapeños, and chipotle mayo for a spicy, zesty twist.
For more creative sandwich ideas, check out Serious Eats’ guide to global sandwich flavors.
Perfect Sides for Pastrami Sandwiches
To complete your meal, pairing your pastrami sandwich with the right side dishes is essential. Here are some classic and creative sides that go perfectly with pastrami:
- Coleslaw: A refreshing, creamy side that adds contrast to the rich flavors of pastrami.
- French Fries: Crispy, golden fries are a natural companion to any deli sandwich.
- Pickle Spears: For extra crunch and brine, serve a pickle spear on the side.
- Potato Salad: Creamy and tangy, potato salad is a filling and complementary side.
The right side dish not only complements the flavors of the sandwich but also provides variety in texture and temperature, making the meal more enjoyable. For more side dish ideas, check out Hadley Recipes.
FAQ: Pastrami Sandwich Toppings
What cheese goes best with pastrami?
Swiss cheese is a classic choice for its mild, nutty flavor. Cheddar and provolone are also excellent options.
What is the best bread for a pastrami sandwich?
The traditional choice is rye bread, but sourdough and whole wheat are great alternatives depending on the flavor profile you want.
Can I add mayonnaise to a pastrami sandwich?
Yes! Mayonnaise adds a creamy element to the sandwich, but be sure to toast the bread slightly to prevent sogginess.
By carefully selecting the right toppings, condiments, and sides, you can elevate the humble pastrami sandwich into a gourmet meal. Whether you stick with the classic or opt for a more creative twist, a well-made pastrami sandwich offers a perfect balance of bold flavors and textures.