Bushra Griffith
Pastrami is a versatile meat that can be enjoyed in a variety of sandwiches. While some prefer their pastrami sandwiches without cheese, others opt for a slice or two of Swiss, Provolone, or Mozzarella. When it comes to building the perfect pastrami sandwich, the choice of bread, condiments, and additional ingredients like sauerkraut also come into play, with each combination offering a unique taste experience. So, what is the best cheese to pair with pastrami, and how do these combinations enhance the flavour profile of this beloved sandwich?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cheese type | Swiss, Provolone, Mozzarella |
| Other ingredients | Sauerkraut, Thousand Island dressing, mustard |
| Bread | Rye bread, onion roll |
| Heating instructions | Heat the sandwich in a skillet or on a flattop until the cheese has melted |
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What You'll Learn
Swiss cheese
When making a pastrami sandwich, it is recommended to toast the bread first. Rye bread is the classic choice, but other types of sandwich bread can be used. Toast the bread in a pan with butter for the best flavour, or use a toaster for convenience. Then, warm the pastrami in the same pan over medium heat. Add the cheese and let it melt. Spread mustard on the non-crispy side of the bread, and top with the warmed pastrami and melted cheese. Add tangy, sour sauerkraut, and top with another slice of bread.
For those who prefer their pastrami sandwich with a kick of spice, Dijon mustard is a good choice. It adds a sharp, spicy flavour that cuts through the richness of the meat and cheese. Alternatively, a milder option is regular yellow mustard.
Overall, Swiss cheese is a classic and versatile choice for a pastrami sandwich. Its mild, nutty flavour and melting capabilities make it a popular option to pair with pastrami.
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Provolone cheese
For a chopped cheese-style pastrami sandwich, Provolone is again a good choice. The cheese is layered on top of chopped pastrami in a hoagie roll and melted in the oven. Soft, browned onions and mustard are added to create a delicious, classic sandwich.
Provolone is also a great option for those who like to add a twist to their pastrami sandwiches. For example, it can be used in place of Swiss cheese in a hot pastrami and Swiss sandwich, with honey Dijon mustard.
Overall, Provolone is a versatile cheese that pairs well with pastrami in various forms, from classic sandwiches to those with a unique twist. Its mild, melty qualities make it a popular choice for those who enjoy a gooey, tasty treat.
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Toasted bread
There are a few things to keep in mind when toasting bread for a pastrami sandwich:
- Bread Type: The classic choice for pastrami is rye bread, but other types of sandwich bread can also be used. It is important to choose a bread that is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the fillings and that has a flavour that complements the pastrami.
- Toasting Method: The bread can be toasted in a toaster, but for a richer flavour, it is recommended to toast it in a pan with butter. This adds a buttery taste and a golden brown colour to the bread.
- Timing: The bread should be toasted until it reaches the desired level of crispness. Be careful not to over-toast it, as this can make the bread too hard and difficult to bite into.
- Assembly: After toasting, spread the desired condiments on the bread, such as mustard or mayonnaise. Then, layer the pastrami, cheese, and other ingredients on top. Finally, place the second slice of bread on top, creating a delicious pastrami sandwich ready to be enjoyed!
When pairing cheese with pastrami on toasted bread, there are a few options to consider:
- Swiss Cheese: Swiss cheese is a popular choice for pastrami sandwiches. It has a mild and creamy flavour that pairs well with the pastrami.
- Provolone Cheese: Provolone is a close second. It has a slightly stronger flavour than Swiss cheese, adding a creamy and tangy taste to the sandwich.
- Mozzarella: Mozzarella cheese can also be used, offering a milder flavour that melts beautifully.
Grilled until the bread is toasted and the cheese has melted, a pastrami sandwich on toasted bread is a delicious and satisfying meal. The crunch of the toast, the melt-in-your-mouth cheese, and the savoury pastrami create a harmonious blend of textures and flavours.
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Mustard
If you're making a hot pastrami sandwich, you can reheat it in an oven, pan, or sandwich press to melt the cheese. This method works especially well with Swiss cheese, a popular choice for pastrami due to its mild, earthy flavour that complements the meat without overpowering it.
For a more adventurous pairing, try blue cheese with hot pastrami. The strong flavour of blue cheese can stand up to the intensity of pastrami, creating an exciting combination.
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Sauerkraut
To make the perfect pastrami sandwich with sauerkraut, start by draining the sauerkraut to remove any excess liquid. You can use a fine mesh strainer or paper towels for this step. Then, lightly toast some caraway seeds in a skillet and add the drained sauerkraut, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the seeds are softened. In a separate skillet, warm your bread—this step is optional but recommended for a truly classic sandwich.
Next, add your pastrami to the skillet with the sauerkraut and let it warm up. Place a slice of cheese on top of the sauerkraut and pastrami, and let it melt. Finally, sandwich the ingredients between two slices of bread, and your pastrami and sauerkraut sandwich is ready to be enjoyed!
For a classic pastrami Reuben, thinly butter each slice of rye bread on one side only. Layer cheese on top, with 1.5 slices on one slice of bread and 0.5 slices on the other, so that the sandwich sticks together. Top each sandwich with sauerkraut, drizzling Thousand Island dressing on top. Finally, add your pastrami and put the sandwiches together, grilling on a stovetop griddle until browned to your liking.
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Frequently asked questions
Swiss cheese is the most popular choice for pairing with pastrami, especially in a Reuben sandwich. Provolone cheese is also a good option, and some people may prefer it as it is milder. Mozzarella and other mild white cheeses can also work well.
A Reuben sandwich is made with pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and rye bread.
Tangy, sour sauerkraut is a classic pairing with pastrami and cheese. A New York-style pastrami sandwich might also include Thousand Island dressing and a toasted onion roll.
Rye bread is the classic choice, but other types of sandwich bread can also be used.
