Steaming Pastrami: How Long Should You Steam It?

Pastrami is a complex dish to make, but steaming it is a simple step in the process. The length of time it takes to steam pastrami depends on the amount of pastrami being steamed and the method used.

For example, if you are steaming pastrami in an Instant Pot, it will take around 40 minutes. However, if you are steaming it in the oven, it could take anywhere from 5 to 10 days.

The key to steaming pastrami is to ensure that the meat is exposed to steam and not touching boiling water. This will help to retain moisture and tenderness.

How to steam pastrami on a stovetop

Steaming pastrami is the final step in the cooking process, and it's an optional one at that. However, it is recommended if you want to achieve that extra tenderness.

Step 1: Prepare the Steamer

First, you will need to fill a pot with water, leaving just an inch of space between the water level and the steamer rack.

Step 2: Steam the Pastrami

Place the pastrami on the steamer rack, cover the pot, and heat over medium-low heat for two hours. Make sure to check the water level periodically and add more water as needed to ensure the meat is steaming the entire time.

Step 3: Remove the Pastrami from the Heat

Remove the pastrami from the pot just before it hits 204°F. The meat will continue to cook as it rests, so it will reach the desired temperature even after being removed from the heat.

Tips:

• If you don't have a steamer, you can use an Instant Pot with a strainer made to fit inside.
• You can also use aluminium foil to elevate the meat above the water. Just be sure the meat isn't touching the boiling water, as it only needs to be exposed to the steam.
• You can also wrap your pastrami in foil and then drop it in the water.

How to steam pastrami in an Instant Pot

Steaming pastrami is the final step in making this delicious deli meat. Pastrami is made from beef brisket that has been wet-cured in brine, seasoned with a rub of black pepper and coriander, and smoked for flavor. The steaming process helps to loosen up the meat and ensure it is tender and juicy.

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket

Start with a corned beef brisket, either a point cut or a flat cut will work. Remove the brisket from its package and discard any spice packets that may be included. Rinse the corned beef thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess brine and surface seasonings.

Step 2: Pressure Cook the Brisket

Place the trivet inside the Instant Pot with the handles facing up. Add 1 cup of water to the pot. Place the brisket on the trivet with the fat side up. This positioning ensures that the fat will course through the meat as it cooks, adding flavor. Secure the lid and cook at high pressure for 60 minutes.

Step 3: Mix the Spices

While the brisket is cooking, prepare the spice rub that will give your pastrami its signature flavor. Mix together the following spices in a bowl:

• Black pepper (coarsely ground)
• Ground coriander
• Dark brown sugar
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Rubbed sage
• Ground mustard powder

Step 4: Rub the Spices on the Brisket

Once the pressure cooking is complete, allow a natural release for 15 minutes, then release any remaining pressure. Use the trivet handles to remove the brisket and transfer it to a plate. Let the brisket cool for about 10 minutes, then use a paper towel to dab away any excess moisture.

Now it's time to transform your corned beef into pastrami! Generously rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure it is fully coated. Wrap the brisket securely in foil and place it in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours and up to 2 days. This step allows the flavors to develop and the corned beef to transform into pastrami.

Step 5: Finish in the Oven

When you are ready to serve, remove the pastrami from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature, still wrapped in foil, for about an hour. Preheat your oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit.

Open the foil around the pastrami so that the fatty side is facing down and the top of the pastrami is exposed. Create a sort of cradle or wall with the foil around the perimeter of the pastrami to prevent any drippings from falling during cooking.

Place the pastrami on the middle rack of the oven and cook for 60 minutes. Then, remove the foil and place the pastrami on a cutting board to cool for a few minutes.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Using a sharp knife, slice the pastrami against the grain into nice, thick slices. Your homemade pastrami is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it on rye or pumpernickel bread with Russian dressing, or use it to make a delicious pastrami sandwich or Reuben.

Tips:

• For a smokier flavor, you can brush the brisket with liquid smoke before pressure cooking.
• Be sure to leave the fat on the brisket, as it is crucial for achieving a tender and juicy pastrami.
• You can cure your own brisket if you prefer, but it will add several days to the process.
• If you have any leftovers, they can be reheated in the microwave or in the Instant Pot.

How to steam pastrami in an oven

Steaming pastrami is the final step in making this delicious deli meat. This step is what gives pastrami its signature tenderness.

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

First, give the pastrami two hours to come to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 300°F. Pour 4 cups of water into a roasting pan and line it with a wire rack.

Step 2: Roast the Pastrami

Place the pastrami on the rack with the fatty side facing up. Tightly wrap both the meat and the roasting pan with a double layer of aluminium foil. Transfer to the oven and bake for 3 to 4 hours (approximately 1 hour per pound) until the internal temperature reaches 200°F.

Step 3: Steam the Pastrami

For extra tenderness, steam the pastrami until it reaches an internal temperature of 204°F.

Step 4: Slice and Serve

Transfer the pastrami to a cutting board and slice it thinly against the grain. Pile the pastrami high on toasted rye bread, slathered with mustard, and serve with pickles on the side.

How to steam pastrami in a microwave

Steaming is one of the best ways to reheat pastrami, giving it extra tenderness. However, if you're looking for a quick and easy way to reheat a few slices of pastrami, using a microwave is the best option. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to steam pastrami in a microwave:

Step 1: Prepare the pastrami

Before you start, bring the pastrami to room temperature. Remove the pastrami from the refrigerator and let it sit for a while. This will help ensure that the pastrami is heated evenly in the microwave.

Step 2: Cover the pastrami with a damp paper towel

Place the pastrami slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp—not soaking wet—paper towel. The paper towel will help keep the pastrami moist and prevent it from drying out during the reheating process.

Step 3: Microwave the pastrami

Put the plate with the pastrami and paper towel in the microwave. Set the microwave to low power and heat the pastrami for 30 seconds. Then, check the temperature of the pastrami. If it's not warm enough, put it back in the microwave for another 20 to 30 seconds. Repeat this process until the pastrami is heated to your desired temperature.

Tips:

• Be careful not to overheat the pastrami, as this can dry it out.
• If you're worried about the pastrami drying out, you can sprinkle a small amount of water on it before covering it with the damp paper towel.
• For larger servings of pastrami, consider using other reheating methods such as steaming on a stovetop or using an Instant Pot, as these methods may be more effective for heating larger quantities.

How to steam pastrami in a frying pan

Steaming pastrami is a great way to reheat the meat and give it extra tenderness. This is a common method used by some New York delis to serve their pastrami.

To steam pastrami in a frying pan, you will need to bring the meat to room temperature first. Then, add a small amount of water to the pan—around 1 to 2 inches deep. Place a steam basket in the pan and bring the water to a boil. If you don't have a steam basket, you can use aluminium foil to elevate the meat and prevent it from touching the water.

Once the water is boiling, place the desired amount of pastrami in the steam basket, cover the pan, and reduce the heat to medium. The water should be at a low boil or high simmer. Steam the pastrami for 10 to 20 minutes, or until the meat is heated through.

Alternatively, you can use a frying pan to heat up a pastrami sandwich. Simply assemble the sandwich and heat it in the pan over medium heat until the cheese melts and the bread is toasted.

Frequently asked questions