Pastrami Vs Reuben Sandwich: The Ultimate Showdown Of Choice
What To Know
- The pastrami is typically seasoned with a blend of spices, including coriander, garlic, and black pepper, and then smoked to perfection.
- Pastrami is made from beef brisket that is cured, seasoned, and smoked, while corned beef is made from beef brisket that is brined in a salt solution.
- The reuben sandwich typically has more calories than the pastrami sandwich due to the addition of sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing.
The pastrami vs reuben sandwich debate is a culinary battle that has raged for decades, pitting two beloved deli classics against each other. Both sandwiches boast their own unique flavors and textures, making it a tough choice for sandwich enthusiasts. In this blog post, we will dive into the depths of these iconic sandwiches, comparing their ingredients, flavors, and overall appeal.
The Pastrami Sandwich: A Meaty Masterpiece
The pastrami sandwich is a staple of New York delis. It features thinly sliced, cured pastrami piled high on rye bread. The pastrami is typically seasoned with a blend of spices, including coriander, garlic, and black pepper, and then smoked to perfection. The sandwich is often topped with mustard, pickles, and Swiss cheese.
Flavor and Texture
Pastrami sandwiches are known for their bold, savory flavor and tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The pastrami’s smoky and spicy notes create a harmonious balance with the tangy mustard and pickles. The Swiss cheese adds a creamy richness that complements the meaty flavors.
The Reuben Sandwich: A Classic Combination
The reuben sandwich is another iconic deli favorite. It consists of thinly sliced corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing on rye bread. The corned beef is typically brined and seasoned, then boiled or steamed until tender. The sauerkraut adds a tangy acidity that balances the richness of the corned beef and cheese.
Flavor and Texture
Reuben sandwiches offer a complex blend of flavors and textures. The corned beef’s salty and slightly sweet notes pair well with the tangy sauerkraut and creamy Swiss cheese. The Thousand Island dressing adds a subtle sweetness and spice that ties the sandwich together. The rye bread provides a sturdy base for the hearty fillings.
Pastrami vs Reuben: The Key Differences
While both pastrami and reuben sandwiches are delicious, they have some key differences that set them apart:
Meat:
- Pastrami: Smoked and cured beef brisket
- Reuben: Brined and seasoned corned beef
Toppings:
- Pastrami: Mustard, pickles, Swiss cheese
- Reuben: Sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing
Bread:
- Pastrami: Rye bread
- Reuben: Rye bread
Origin:
- Pastrami: Romanian in origin
- Reuben: American in origin
Which Sandwich Reigns Supreme?
Ultimately, the choice between a pastrami vs reuben sandwich comes down to personal preference. Both sandwiches offer their own unique culinary experiences.
For those who prefer:
- Bold, smoky flavors: Pastrami
- Complex, tangy flavors: Reuben
- Tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture: Pastrami
- Hearty and satisfying: Reuben
Variations on the Classics
Pastrami Variations:
- Rachel Sandwich: Pastrami, coleslaw, Swiss cheese, Russian dressing
- French Dip Pastrami: Pastrami served on a French roll, dipped in au jus
- Pastrami Pizza: Pastrami, Swiss cheese, mustard, pickles on pizza crust
Reuben Variations:
- Turkey Reuben: Turkey breast instead of corned beef
- Vegetarian Reuben: Grilled portobello mushrooms instead of corned beef
- California Reuben: Avocado and sprouts added to the classic ingredients
The Perfect Pairing: Sides and Drinks
Both pastrami and reuben sandwiches pair well with a variety of sides and drinks:
Sides:
- Potato salad
- Coleslaw
- Onion rings
Drinks:
- Beer
- Pickle juice
- Root beer
Beyond the Deli: Pastrami and Reuben in Other Dishes
Pastrami and reuben flavors extend beyond the traditional sandwich form:
- Pastrami Tacos: Pastrami, pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream
- Reuben Soup: Corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, Thousand Island dressing in a creamy broth
- Pastrami Pizza: Pastrami, Swiss cheese, mustard, pickles on pizza crust
What People Want to Know
1. What is the difference between pastrami and corned beef?
Pastrami is made from beef brisket that is cured, seasoned, and smoked, while corned beef is made from beef brisket that is brined in a salt solution.
2. Which sandwich has more calories?
The reuben sandwich typically has more calories than the pastrami sandwich due to the addition of sauerkraut and Thousand Island dressing.
3. Can I make pastrami or reuben sandwiches at home?
Yes, it is possible to make both pastrami and reuben sandwiches at home with the right ingredients and techniques. However, it is recommended to use high-quality deli meats for the best results.