Are you a fan of deli meats? Do you find yourself confused by the different options available at the counter?
Two popular choices that often get mixed up are salt beef and pastrami. While they may look similar, they are actually quite different in terms of their origins, preparation, and flavor profiles.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these two beloved meats and help you make an informed decision next time you’re at the deli counter.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about salt beef and pastrami.
Is Salt Beef The Same As Pastrami?
The short answer is no, salt beef is not the same as pastrami. While both meats are made from beef brisket and are cured in salt water to preserve them, the similarities end there.
Salt beef is a traditional British dish that is popular in London. It is made by steaming the cured beef for 12 hours, resulting in a tender and salty meat with a red pigment.
Pastrami, on the other hand, is a Jewish-American dish that originated in New York. It is made by smoking the cured beef for 8 hours and then steaming it for 4 hours. The smoking process gives pastrami its distinct flavor and creates a dark bark around the outside of the meat.
In terms of flavor, salt beef has a salty taste with a subtle beef flavor. Pastrami, on the other hand, has a more complex flavor profile with notes of smoke, pepper, and other spices.
Origins Of Salt Beef And Pastrami
The origins of salt beef and pastrami can be traced back to different parts of the world. Salt beef, also known as corned beef in some countries, originated in Ireland during the 17th century. The term “corned” comes from the large-grained rock salt used to cure the beef. This method of preserving meat was popular due to the lack of refrigeration and the need for long-lasting protein sources.
The Irish corned beef industry was fueled by the Cattle Acts of 1663 and 1667, which prohibited the export of live cattle to England. This flooded the Irish market with cattle, lowering the cost of meat available for salted beef production. With high-quality salt and large quantities of cattle, Irish corned beef quickly became popular in Europe and the Americas.
Pastrami, on the other hand, has its roots in Romania. The original product, pastirma, was made from goose breasts and was a popular delicacy among Jewish Romanians. When these immigrants arrived in New York City in the late 19th century, they adapted their recipe to use cheaper cuts of beef, such as brisket and navel.
Sussman Volk, a kosher butcher and immigrant from Lithuania, is credited with producing the first pastrami sandwich in New York City in 1887. He claimed to have received the recipe from a Romanian friend in exchange for storing his luggage while he returned to Romania.
Both salt beef and pastrami were originally created as a means of preserving meat before refrigeration. However, they have evolved into distinct dishes with their own unique flavors and cultural significance.
Preparation Methods Of Salt Beef And Pastrami
To make salt beef, the beef brisket is first soaked in a brine solution made of water, salt, sugar, and various spices for several days. Once the meat has been thoroughly penetrated by the brine, it is rinsed and then boiled or steamed for several hours until it is tender.
Pastrami, on the other hand, is made by first curing the beef through a brining process to infuse the meat with salt and spices for 5-7 days. After brining, the beef is coated in a seasoning of black peppercorns, coriander seeds, mustard seeds, and more to add additional flavor. Finally, the meat is slow smoked for 8 hours to achieve its distinct flavor and then steamed for 4 hours to tenderize it.
The preparation methods of salt beef and pastrami differ in their cooking techniques. Salt beef is boiled or steamed for several hours until it is tender, while pastrami is first smoked and then steamed to achieve its unique flavor and tenderness.
Flavor Profiles Of Salt Beef And Pastrami
When it comes to flavor, there are some notable differences between salt beef and pastrami. Salt beef has a straightforward salty taste, with a subtle beef flavor that is not too overpowering. The meat is tender and juicy, with a red pigment that comes from the curing process.
Pastrami, on the other hand, has a more complex flavor profile. The smoking process gives it a distinct smoky flavor that is complemented by a blend of spices, including black pepper and coriander seeds. This results in a meat that has a rich, savory taste with a slightly spicy kick. The texture of pastrami is slightly chewy, which adds to its overall appeal.
While both meats are delicious in their own right, the flavor of pastrami is more intense and complex than salt beef. This makes it a popular choice for sandwiches and other dishes where you want the meat to be the star of the show. Salt beef, on the other hand, is often used as a filling for sandwiches or as part of a traditional English breakfast.
Serving Suggestions For Salt Beef And Pastrami
If you’re looking for serving suggestions for salt beef or pastrami, there are plenty of options to choose from. While both meats can be enjoyed on their own, they also pair well with a variety of sides and condiments.
For salt beef, traditional British sides like mashed potatoes and boiled cabbage are a great choice. You can also try serving it with pickles or mustard for a tangy contrast to the salty meat.
Pastrami, on the other hand, is often served on rye bread with mustard and pickles to make a classic sandwich. You can also try serving it with coleslaw or a vinegary cabbage salad to balance out the smoky flavor. Another option is to serve pastrami with a cheese sauce or roux, which pairs well with the saltiness of the meat.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making a Reuben sandwich with pastrami instead of corned beef. This sandwich typically includes sauerkraut and Russian or Thousand Island dressing, and is served on rye bread.
No matter how you choose to serve it, both salt beef and pastrami are delicious and versatile meats that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
Health Considerations For Salt Beef And Pastrami
While both salt beef and pastrami are popular deli meats, they are not considered healthy options due to their high sodium and fat content. Both meats are cured in salt water, which results in a high sodium content that can increase the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease if consumed in excess.
Pastrami, in particular, is high in saturated fat, which can increase blood cholesterol levels and lead to heart disease. However, it does contain essential amino acids, iron, zinc, and other nutrients that make it a healthier option than other processed meats like bacon and ham. Additionally, pastrami is often served on rye bread, which is considered a healthier bread option.
Salt beef is also high in sodium and fat, with the added risk of containing sodium nitrite as a preservative. Sodium nitrite helps maintain freshness by limiting the growth of bacteria that cause foodborne illness. However, it can also contribute to the sodium content and has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
If you are looking for a healthier deli meat option, it is recommended to opt for leaner cuts of meat such as roast turkey, tuna, or smoked salmon. It is also important to consume salt beef and pastrami in moderation to avoid the negative health effects associated with their high sodium and fat content.
