Pastrami on Rye Recipe | Classic New York Deli-Style Sandwich
Pastrami on Rye Recipe
A classic New York deli sandwich featuring tender pastrami slices piled high on fresh rye bread, topped with mustard and served with a side of pickles.
The Pastrami on Rye is an iconic New York deli favorite, known for its rich, smoky pastrami, tangy mustard, and hearty rye bread. This recipe brings the authentic deli experience straight to your kitchen!
Ingredients (Makes 2 Sandwiches)
For the Sandwich:
- ½ lb thinly sliced pastrami (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices fresh rye bread (preferably Jewish deli-style rye)
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard
- 2 tbsp butter (for toasting, optional)
For Serving:
- Kosher dill pickles (optional, but highly recommended)
- Side of coleslaw or potato chips (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Warm the Pastrami
- Steam the pastrami for the best deli-style texture:
- Bring 1 inch of water to a simmer in a pot.
- Place pastrami slices in a steamer basket, cover, and steam for 5 minutes until tender and heated through.
- If you don’t have a steamer, wrap the pastrami in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Toasted or untoasted?
- Traditional deli-style pastrami on rye is served untoasted.
- However, you can lightly butter the bread and toast it on a skillet for extra crunch.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
- Spread mustard on both slices of rye bread.
- Pile the pastrami high—stack at least ¼ lb per sandwich for that deli-style experience.
- Press the sandwich lightly to hold it together.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Cut in half and serve immediately.
- Pair with kosher dill pickles, coleslaw, or potato chips.
Serving Suggestions
🥪 Classic Deli Style: Serve with a side of matzo ball soup or potato salad.
🔥 Spicy Twist: Add horseradish mustard for extra kick.
🧀 Cheesy Variation: Melt Swiss cheese over the pastrami for a Pastrami Melt.
Enjoy this Pastrami on Rye, a true New York deli classic that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make! 🥪
