Skip to main content

Homemade Pastrami

Prep: 30 min
Cook: 240 min
Total: 270 min
Servings: 8
Difficulty: Medium
Calories: 73/serving
gluten-free dairy-free low-carb keto low-sodium paleo
Contains: mustard
Homemade Pastrami

Ingredients

Units:
  • 2000 g beef brisket
  • 60 g kosher salt
  • 50 g sugar
  • 30 g black peppercorns
  • 30 g coriander seeds
  • 15 g garlic powder
  • 15 g paprika
  • 10 g mustard seeds
  • 15 g brown sugar

Instructions

  1. 1

    Trim the brisket, leaving about 1/4 inch of fat cap on one side

  2. 2

    Mix kosher salt and sugar together for the cure. Rub all over the brisket, place in a sealed container, and refrigerate for 5-7 days, flipping daily

  3. 3

    After curing, rinse the brisket thoroughly under cold water and pat dry

  4. 4

    Coarsely grind the black peppercorns and coriander seeds using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle

  5. 5

    Mix the ground pepper and coriander with garlic powder, paprika, mustard seeds, and brown sugar to create the pastrami rub

  6. 6

    Coat the entire brisket generously with the spice rub, pressing it into the meat

  7. 7

    If you have a smoker, smoke at 225°F (107°C) for 6-8 hours until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Otherwise, place on a rack in a roasting pan with 1 cup of water, cover tightly with foil, and bake at 275°F (135°C) for 3-4 hours

  8. 8

    Once cooked, let rest for 30 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain for serving...

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories 73
Protein 6g
Carbs 1g
Fat 5g
Fiber 0g

Nutrition data is approximate and derived from OpenFoodFacts.org. Values may vary based on ingredients, brands, and preparation methods. Not intended as dietary or medical advice.

Chef's Note

"This homemade pastrami transforms humble brisket into deli-style perfection with a simple spice crust and slow cooking. Don't be intimidated by the process—the active work is minimal, and your patience will be rewarded with incredibly tender, flavorful meat that rivals any deli counter."

More Dinner Recipes