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Classic Homemade Pastrami Without a Smoker

Make delicious pastrami at home with brisket using this recipe for spicy, intensely aromatic pastrami that is easy to make without a smoker.
Prep Time 40 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 18 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: Eastern European
Calories: 529

Ingredients
  

  • 1 beef brisket 4-5 pounds, flat cut preferred
  • ½ cup vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ¼ cup black peppercorns coarsely ground
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons coriander seeds ground
  • 1 tablespoon dry mustard
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust for heat preference
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons pink curing salt Prague Powder #1

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Curing Solution: In a large container, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, pink curing salt, and 1 gallon of cold water. Stir until completely dissolved.
  2. Brine the Brisket: Submerge the brisket in the brine solution. Place a plate on top if needed to keep it fully immersed. Cover and refrigerate for 5-7 days, turning the meat once daily.
  3. Create the Flavor Infusion: Mix vegetable oil and minced garlic in a small bowl; set aside for 1 hour to allow the garlic to infuse the oil.
  4. Prepare the Spice Rub: In a medium bowl, combine ground black pepper, paprika, ground coriander, dry mustard, white pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly.
  5. Remove and Rinse the Brisket: After brining, remove the brisket and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Pat completely dry with paper towels.
  6. Apply the Garlic Oil: Brush the entire surface of the brisket with the garlic-infused oil, ensuring even coverage.
  7. Coat with Spice Rub: Press the spice mixture firmly onto all surfaces of the oiled brisket, creating a thick, even crust.
  8. Steam or Slow Cook: Place the seasoned brisket on a rack in a roasting pan with 1 inch of water. Cover tightly with foil and cook at 275°F (135°C) for 3-4 hours, or until fork-tender.
  9. Rest Before Slicing: Allow the pastrami to rest for 30 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain for the perfect texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 529kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 44gFat: 37gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 160mgSodium: 74mgFiber: 1g
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