2.17.2009

Turkey Pastrami








Pastrami is a meat I never really paid much attention to before... until now. Pastrami is usually made from beef brisket, salted and then partially dried. It is then rubbed with spices and smoked to perfection. Slices from your local deli may be a little costly, but well worth it.
While waiting on a very busy saturday at the deli counter of my local supermarket, I had my heart set on some thinly sliced roast beef, or plain ole smoked ham. My ears perked up when the lady in front of me ordered turkey pastrami for $3.99/lb. I watched the deli worker carve thin slices of the heavily spiced meat and my mouth watered. Turkey pastrami? For that price? Ok, I'll give it a whirl. And whirl me it did. Not only is turkey leaner and more healthy than beef for those of us striving to be healthier, it also comes at a nicer price.
I couldn't wait for a sandwhich, as soon as it came out of the grocery bag, I popped a slice into my mouth. Wow. This is turkey? For real? Not that it would pass for beef, but the smoky flavor and the cracked pepper, allspice, and mustard seed were enough to put away the last little voice in my head that was screaming, "but turkey's bland!". I was in love. The smokiness gives the turkey a likeness to ham in color and texture, as well as a touch of hammy tasty goodness. So far I've only piled this meat high on a sandwhich of cheese, tomato, and light mayo; and popped a slice in my mouth now and then when perusing what's in the refrigerator. Other than sandwhiches of endless varieties, or an adventurous pizza topping, I'm not sure what else I would do with it. What about you? Do you like pastrami?

4 comments:

  1. When I saw your shot of the Pastrami, I thought of making a sandwich with sour cream cucumber sauce and sliced cucumbers on crusty Paesano Bread.

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  2. Cucumber sauce would be a great pairing. I'll have to try that. Thanks for the suggestion!

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  3. Cucumber sauce sounds exotic,I'll try it!Meanwhile I'll stick to swiss & mustard on sturdy rye...GOOD mustard!I occasionally get'graypoopon' my boots at work and take comfort knowing I've got Plochmans in my lunchbox.

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  4. My local has Turkey Pastrami for $4.99lb - I was standing on the deli line waiting to order a turkey 6" sub for $3.99 (lunch deal of the day). I love pastrami - but not the calories. I decided to give the Turkey Pastrami a try. So I got 1/2 lb, loaf of rye, had swiss back at the office - grabbed some packets mayo. Back to the office - put my sandwich together and WOW! - you will not be asking "where's the Beef" Deliciouso.

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