How to make cold smoked pastrami: a flavorful delicacy

Pastrami is a mouthwatering delicacy that is simply smoked corned beef. It is incredibly easy to make your own pastrami if you have a corned beef. In this article, we will explore the process of making cold smoked pastrami and how you can add extra flavors to elevate its taste.

The Art of Making Pastrami

When making pastrami, it is important to start with a good quality corned beef. You can either buy a pre-packaged corned beef or make your own from scratch if you have the time to let it cure for three weeks. The seasoning for corned beef can be as simple as black pepper and ground coriander, but you can experiment with different spices to create a unique flavor profile for your pastrami.

What You Will Need

• One corned beef
• A good pastrami rub
• Fuel for your smoker
• Mild flavor wood chips
• A good meat thermometer

When it comes to smoking pastrami, it is crucial to choose the right wood chips. Using a mild wood like apple, cherry, maple, or oak will complement the flavor of the pastrami without overpowering it. Avoid using strong woods that can mask the delicate taste of the meat.

The Cold Smoking Process

Cold smoking is a technique that infuses flavor into the meat without cooking it. This process requires a smoker that can maintain a temperature between 68°F and 86°F (20°C and 30°C) for several hours. It's important to note that cold smoking requires careful attention to food safety to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.

Here is a step-by-step guide to cold smoking pastrami:

1. Prepare your smoker by filling it with fuel and lighting it. Make sure the temperature stays within the desired range.
2. Remove the corned beef from its packaging and rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt.
3. Pat the corned beef dry with paper towels and apply a generous amount of pastrami rub all over the meat. The rub can include a combination of spices like black pepper, coriander, garlic powder, and mustard seeds.
4. Place the seasoned corned beef on a wire rack and put it inside the smoker.
5. Close the smoker and let the corned beef smoke for approximately 4-6 hours, depending on the desired level of smokiness.
6. Monitor the temperature of the meat using a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
7. Once the corned beef reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Your cold smoked pastrami is now ready to be enjoyed! Slice it thinly and serve it on rye bread with mustard for a classic pastrami sandwich. The smoky flavor and tender texture will surely delight your taste buds.

Adding Extra Flavor to Your Pastrami

While the traditional pastrami rub consists of black pepper and coriander, you can experiment with additional spices and herbs to customize the flavor of your pastrami. Some popular variations include adding paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or even a touch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Another way to enhance the flavor is by marinating the corned beef in a brine solution before smoking it. This can be done by combining water, salt, sugar, and various spices and letting the meat soak in the brine for 24-48 hours. The brine not only adds flavor but also helps in tenderizing the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I hot smoke pastrami instead of cold smoking it?

A: Yes, you can hot smoke pastrami if you prefer a fully cooked and more tender result. The process is similar, but the cooking time will be longer. Hot smoking pastrami can take anywhere from 8-12 hours, depending on the size of the meat and the temperature of your smoker.

Q: Can I use a gas or charcoal grill for smoking pastrami?

A: While a gas or charcoal grill can be used for smoking pastrami, it requires additional equipment such as a smoker box or aluminum foil pouch to hold the wood chips. It's important to maintain a consistent temperature and monitor the cooking process closely to achieve the desired results.

In Conclusion

Cold smoked pastrami is a delectable treat that can be easily made at home. With the right ingredients and equipment, you can create a flavor-packed pastrami that will impress your family and friends. Whether you prefer a classic rub or want to experiment with different spices, the key is to enjoy the process and savor the delicious end result.

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