What Is Pastrami? How It’s Made & Why It Tastes So Good

If you’ve ever bitten into a warm, overstuffed sandwich piled high with smoky, peppery meat and thought, what is this magic?—you were probably eating pastrami. It’s one of those foods that feels simple on the surface but carries a surprisingly rich history, a careful preparation process, and a flavour profile that’s hard to beat.

So, what is pastrami?

Pastrami is a type of cured and smoked meat, traditionally made from beef. The process of making pastrami is what sets it apart. It’s not just cooked meat; it’s transformed through several stages:

Curing – The meat is soaked in a brine with salt, sugar, and spices. This preserves it and builds the foundation of flavour.
Seasoning – After curing, it’s coated with a spice rub, typically heavy on black pepper and coriander.
Smoking – The meat is slow-smoked, which adds depth and that signature smoky aroma.
Steaming – Finally, it’s steamed until tender, giving pastrami its juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

The result? A perfectly balanced combination of salty, smoky, spicy, and savoury.

A little history on the side

Pastrami has roots in Eastern Europe, where similar cured meats were made as a way to preserve food. It was brought to the United States by Jewish immigrants in the late 19th century and quickly became a staple in delicatessens, especially in New York City. Over time, it evolved into the iconic sandwich filling we know today.

What makes pastrami so special?

There are plenty of cured meats out there – so why does pastrami stand out?

The flavour complexity
Pastrami isn’t one-note. The curing brings saltiness, the spice rub adds heat and aroma, the smoking layers in richness, and the steaming keeps it juicy. Every bite hits multiple taste dimensions at once.
The texture
Good pastrami is tender without falling apart. It has just enough chew to feel substantial, but it’s soft enough to bite through easily.
The spice crust (or what we call the “bark”)
That dark, peppery crust on the outside is a defining feature. It adds a slight crunch and an intense burst of flavour that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.
The Versatility
While it’s most famous in sandwiches, pastrami works in a range of dishes – on pizza, in salads, mixed into eggs, or even eaten on its own.

The ultimate pastrami experience

Of course, pastrami really shines in its most iconic form: stacked high between slices of bread. Add a little mustard, maybe some pickles on the side, and you’ve got something close to perfection. The richness of the meat, the sharpness of the mustard, and the softness of the bread all come together in a way that feels both indulgent and comforting.

Why people call it “the best”

Calling any food “the best” is subjective – but pastrami makes a strong case. It’s the product of time, technique, and tradition. It delivers bold flavour without being overwhelming, comfort without being boring, and nostalgia without needing explanation.

It’s not just meat – it’s craftsmanship you can taste.

Final bite

Pastrami is one of those foods that rewards attention. The more you understand how it’s made, the more you appreciate each bite. Whether you’re grabbing a quick sandwich or seeking out a perfectly prepared deli classic, pastrami offers something that few other meats can match: depth, character, and undeniable deliciousness.

And honestly, once you’ve had really good pastrami, it’s hard to settle for anything less.

Why Zaidys Pastrami is the best choice

When it comes to experiencing pastrami at its absolute best, choosing Zaidys pastrami sets a new standard. Known for its commitment to traditional methods and premium-quality cuts, Zaidys delivers that perfect balance of bold seasoning, rich smokiness, and tender texture every time. Our attention to detail – from carefully crafted spice blends to expertly controlled smoking and steaming – ensures a consistently exceptional product. If you’re looking for pastrami that truly captures everything that makes this classic so beloved, Zaidys isn’t just a good option – it’s the one that brings the full experience to life.

If you’re ready to try Zaidys pastrami for yourself, it’s typically available to eat at foodservice venues like cafes and restaurants, as well as to take it home from select delis and some specialty grocers. You can also request to order Zaidys directly. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s worth checking our website or social media channels, where you can find stockists, ordering options, and photos that will make you want it NOW.