Pastrami, Rye, And Cheese: The Perfect Trio

Pastrami on rye is a classic sandwich that can be made in a variety of ways. While some people prefer their pastrami on rye without cheese, Swiss cheese is a popular option, and others suggest provolone or mozzarella. The sandwich can be grilled, steamed, or baked, and is often served with toppings such as sauerkraut, Russian dressing, or Thousand Island dressing.

Swiss cheese is a popular choice

The Swiss cheese in a Reuben sandwich is melted by grilling the sandwich in a skillet or on a flattop grill. The Swiss cheese is placed on top of the rye bread, along with the pastrami and sauerkraut, and then grilled until the cheese has melted and the bread is toasted. The sandwich is then served hot with the Russian dressing or Thousand Island dressing drizzled on top.

The key to a great pastrami on rye sandwich is the balance of meat to bread to toppings and condiments. Using fresh, quality ingredients, such as bakery-style rye bread, is essential to making a delicious sandwich. In addition to the Swiss cheese, pastrami, and rye bread, common toppings and condiments include butter, Russian or Thousand Island dressing, and sauerkraut.

Provolone is a close second

While Swiss cheese is the most popular choice for a pastrami on rye sandwich, Provolone is a close second. Provolone is a mild Italian cheese with a slightly sweet and nutty flavour. It is a semi-hard cheese with a smooth and creamy texture, which melts beautifully on a pastrami sandwich.

When making a pastrami on rye sandwich with Provolone, it is important to get the right balance of meat, toppings, and condiments. The key to a great sandwich is to have just the right amount of each quality ingredient, so that each bite is a delightful combination of flavours and textures.

To make a delicious Provolone pastrami on rye sandwich, start by warming up some sauerkraut on a griddle or in a skillet. Next, warm up a few slices of pastrami alongside the sauerkraut. Butter two slices of fresh rye bread and place them butter-side down on the griddle. Add a slice of Provolone to each slice of bread and grill until the cheese has melted and the bread is toasted. Remove the bread from the griddle and add the warmed pastrami to one slice, and sauerkraut to the other. Add your choice of condiments, such as Russian dressing, Thousand Island dressing, or mustard, and then place the pastrami side on top of the sauerkraut side. Grill the sandwich for a couple more minutes and then serve.

For an extra special touch, try making your own Russian dressing by stirring together mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and chilli sauce. This simple addition will take your pastrami on rye sandwich to the next level!

Mozzarella is also an option

Mozzarella is a soft, mild-flavoured cheese that melts beautifully, making it perfect for a hot pastrami sandwich. It has a high moisture content, which means it will melt quickly and easily. This will ensure your pastrami sandwich is nice and gooey.

When choosing mozzarella for your sandwich, opt for fresh mozzarella, which is sold in balls soaked in brine or water. This type of mozzarella has a softer texture and a more delicate flavour compared to the low-moisture variety typically used for pizza toppings.

To assemble your pastrami and mozzarella sandwich, start by buttering your rye bread. Add a slice of mozzarella to one slice of bread and place it on a flattop grill or pan over medium heat. Add your pastrami to the grill and cook until warmed through. You can also add a pile of sauerkraut to the grill if you like. Once the cheese has melted and the bread is toasted, remove it from the heat. Spread mayonnaise and mustard on the other slice of bread, add the pastrami, and top with the mozzarella-topped slice. Cut your sandwich in half and enjoy!

You can also add other ingredients to your sandwich, such as Russian dressing, pickles, or potato chips on the side.

No cheese is preferable for some

While many people enjoy cheese on their pastrami and rye sandwiches, some prefer to leave it out. This may be because they feel that the addition of cheese distracts from the other flavours in the sandwich, or because they are simply not a fan of cheese.

Leaving the cheese out of a pastrami and rye sandwich means that the flavours of the pastrami, rye bread, and any other toppings or condiments can truly shine. The pastrami, for example, is often spiced and smoked, and this can be better appreciated without the addition of cheese. Similarly, rye bread has a distinct flavour that can be enjoyed without cheese masking it.

Those who prefer their pastrami and rye sandwiches without cheese might also feel that the sandwich is already hearty and flavourful enough without it. Pastrami is a cured and smoked meat, and rye bread is dense and packed with flavour. These two ingredients, along with toppings such as sauerkraut and condiments like mustard, Russian dressing, or mayonnaise, create a sandwich that is already complex in flavour and texture.

For those who do not eat dairy, or who are simply not fans of cheese, a pastrami and rye sandwich without cheese is a delicious option. Leaving out the cheese does not mean sacrificing flavour—on the contrary, it allows the other ingredients to take centre stage.

Russian dressing is a must for some

For those who like their pastrami and rye with a generous helping of Russian dressing, the cheese of choice is undoubtedly Swiss. This classic combination, known as a Reuben, is a deli favourite and a popular choice for those seeking a hearty, satisfying bite.

The key to a great sandwich is balance, and this is especially true when it comes to the Reuben. The saltiness of the pastrami, the tanginess of the Russian dressing, and the slight sourness of the rye bread are all beautifully offset by the mild, nutty flavour of Swiss cheese. It adds a creamy texture and a subtle depth of flavour that enhances the other ingredients without overwhelming them.

While some may prefer their pastrami and rye without cheese, or with a different variety such as provolone or mozzarella, Swiss cheese is the traditional choice for a reason. Its ability to complement and bring together the other strong flavours in the sandwich is what makes it a must for those who enjoy Russian dressing on their pastrami and rye.

For the perfect Reuben, start with a generous spread of Russian dressing on buttered, grilled rye bread. Add a layer of warm, crispy pastrami, some sauerkraut, and a slice of Swiss cheese. Top it off with another slice of grilled rye, and you have a sandwich that's sure to satisfy.

So, if you're a fan of Russian dressing and are looking for the perfect cheese to complete your pastrami and rye, Swiss cheese is the classic choice. It adds a delicious, creamy element that brings the whole sandwich together, making it a true comfort food.

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