The pastrami sandwich, a staple of Jewish delis and a favorite among meat lovers, has been a topic of debate for years. While some argue that the classic combination of pastrami, mustard, and pickles is the only way to go, others claim that adding cheese takes the sandwich to a whole new level. In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the pastrami sandwich, explore the different types of cheese that can be used, and ultimately answer the question: does cheese belong on a classic pastrami sandwich?
A Brief History of the Pastrami Sandwich
The pastrami sandwich has its roots in Eastern European Jewish cuisine, where pastrami was a staple meat. The dish was brought to the United States by Jewish immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, where it became a popular item on deli menus. The classic pastrami sandwich, consisting of thinly sliced pastrami, mustard, and pickles on rye bread, was born in the Jewish delis of New York City.
One of the most famous pastrami sandwiches in the United States is the one served at Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City. Katz’s has been serving pastrami sandwiches since 1888, and their recipe has remained largely unchanged over the years. The sandwich features thick-cut pastrami, mustard, and pickles on rye bread, and is often served with a side of matzo ball soup or knishes.
The Case for Cheese on a Pastrami Sandwich
So, why do some people think that cheese belongs on a pastrami sandwich? There are a few reasons:
Flavor Enhancement
Cheese can add a rich, creamy flavor to the pastrami sandwich that complements the salty, savory flavor of the meat. Some cheeses, such as Swiss or cheddar, have a nutty flavor that pairs well with the pastrami.
Texture Contrast
The creamy texture of cheese can provide a nice contrast to the thick, chewy texture of the pastrami. This contrast can add depth and interest to the sandwich.
Tradition
In some parts of the United States, particularly in the Midwest, it’s common to find pastrami sandwiches with cheese on deli menus. This is likely due to the influence of other European cuisines, such as German or Polish, which often feature cheese in their meat dishes.
The Case Against Cheese on a Pastrami Sandwich
On the other hand, there are also some compelling arguments against putting cheese on a pastrami sandwich:
Overpowering the Pastrami
Some argue that cheese can overpower the flavor of the pastrami, which is the star of the show. Pastrami has a rich, complex flavor that can be overpowered by the strong flavor of cheese.
Disrupting the Balance
The classic pastrami sandwich has a delicate balance of flavors and textures, with the pastrami, mustard, and pickles working together in harmony. Adding cheese can disrupt this balance and throw off the flavor of the sandwich.
Tradition
In many Jewish delis, particularly in New York City, it’s traditional to serve pastrami sandwiches without cheese. This is partly due to the fact that many Jewish people follow kosher dietary laws, which prohibit the mixing of meat and dairy products.
Types of Cheese That Can Be Used on a Pastrami Sandwich
If you do decide to add cheese to your pastrami sandwich, there are several types that pair well with the meat. Here are a few options:
- Swiss cheese: A nutty, creamy cheese that pairs well with the pastrami.
- Cheddar cheese: A sharp, tangy cheese that adds a nice contrast to the richness of the pastrami.
- Provolone cheese: A mild, smooth cheese that melts well and adds a creamy texture to the sandwich.
How to Add Cheese to a Pastrami Sandwich
If you decide to add cheese to your pastrami sandwich, here are a few tips:
Use a Mild Cheese
A mild cheese, such as Swiss or provolone, is a good choice for a pastrami sandwich. These cheeses won’t overpower the flavor of the pastrami, but will add a creamy texture and a touch of flavor.
Use a Small Amount of Cheese
You don’t need a lot of cheese to make a big impact. A small amount of cheese, such as a slice or two, is enough to add flavor and texture to the sandwich without overpowering the pastrami.
Melt the Cheese
Melting the cheese can help to distribute the flavor and texture throughout the sandwich. You can melt the cheese by grilling the sandwich or by using a panini press.
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether or not to add cheese to a pastrami sandwich is a matter of personal preference. If you’re a traditionalist, you may prefer to stick with the classic combination of pastrami, mustard, and pickles. But if you’re feeling adventurous, adding cheese can be a great way to mix things up and add some extra flavor and texture to the sandwich. Just be sure to use a mild cheese and a small amount, and to melt the cheese to distribute the flavor and texture throughout the sandwich.
| Pastrami Sandwich Variations | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Classic Pastrami Sandwich | Pastrami, mustard, pickles, rye bread |
| Cheesy Pastrami Sandwich | Pastrami, cheese, mustard, pickles, rye bread |
| Pastrami on a Bagel | Pastrami, cream cheese, capers, red onion, bagel |
Whether you’re a fan of the classic pastrami sandwich or you like to mix things up with cheese and other toppings, there’s no denying that the pastrami sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal. So next time you’re in the mood for a pastrami sandwich, consider adding some cheese to the mix – you might just find that it’s the perfect addition to this classic dish.
What is a classic pastrami sandwich?
A classic pastrami sandwich typically consists of thinly sliced pastrami, served on rye bread with mustard. The pastrami is usually steamed and then piled high on the bread, creating a hearty and flavorful sandwich. This traditional combination has been a staple of Jewish delis for decades.
The simplicity of the classic pastrami sandwich is part of its charm. The focus is on the rich flavor of the pastrami, which is enhanced by the slight tang of the mustard and the crunch of the rye bread. This straightforward approach allows the quality of the ingredients to shine through, making for a truly satisfying eating experience.
Does cheese belong on a classic pastrami sandwich?
Opinions on this topic tend to be strongly divided. Some argue that cheese has no place on a classic pastrami sandwich, as it disrupts the delicate balance of flavors and textures. Others claim that a melted layer of cheese adds a richness and creaminess that complements the pastrami perfectly.
Ultimately, whether or not cheese belongs on a classic pastrami sandwich is a matter of personal preference. If you’re a traditionalist who values the simplicity of the original recipe, you may want to stick with the classic combination. On the other hand, if you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something new, adding cheese could be a great way to mix things up.
What types of cheese are commonly used on pastrami sandwiches?
For those who do choose to add cheese to their pastrami sandwich, there are several options to consider. Swiss cheese is a popular choice, as its mild flavor and creamy texture provide a nice contrast to the bold pastrami. Cheddar cheese is another option, offering a sharper flavor that can help cut through the richness of the pastrami.
Other types of cheese, such as provolone or mozzarella, can also be used on pastrami sandwiches. The key is to choose a cheese that melts well and adds a complementary flavor to the pastrami. Experimenting with different types of cheese can help you find the perfect combination for your taste buds.
How does the addition of cheese affect the flavor of the pastrami?
The addition of cheese can significantly impact the flavor of the pastrami. A mild cheese like Swiss can help to balance out the bold flavor of the pastrami, creating a more nuanced taste experience. On the other hand, a stronger cheese like cheddar can overpower the pastrami, creating a sandwich that’s more about the cheese than the meat.
In some cases, the cheese can also help to bring out the natural flavors of the pastrami. For example, a cheese with a smoky flavor can enhance the smokiness of the pastrami, creating a deeper and more complex taste experience.
Is it possible to add cheese to a pastrami sandwich without overpowering the pastrami?
Yes, it is possible to add cheese to a pastrami sandwich without overpowering the pastrami. The key is to use a moderate amount of cheese and to choose a type of cheese that complements the flavor of the pastrami. A thin layer of melted cheese can add a richness and creaminess to the sandwich without overwhelming the pastrami.
It’s also important to consider the type of pastrami being used. A high-quality pastrami with a bold flavor can hold its own against a moderate amount of cheese. On the other hand, a milder pastrami may be overpowered by even a small amount of cheese.
What are some alternative ways to add creaminess to a pastrami sandwich?
For those who want to add creaminess to their pastrami sandwich without using cheese, there are several alternative options. One approach is to use a creamy condiment like mayonnaise or Russian dressing. These can add a rich and tangy flavor to the sandwich without overpowering the pastrami.
Another option is to use a spread like hummus or avocado. These can add a creamy texture to the sandwich while also providing a boost of flavor. Experimenting with different condiments and spreads can help you find a way to add creaminess to your pastrami sandwich without using cheese.
Ultimately, is the decision to add cheese to a pastrami sandwich a matter of personal preference?
Yes, the decision to add cheese to a pastrami sandwich is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Some people will always prefer the classic combination of pastrami and mustard, while others will enjoy the added richness and creaminess of cheese.
There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to adding cheese to a pastrami sandwich. The most important thing is to experiment and find the combination that works best for you. Whether you’re a traditionalist or an adventurer, there’s a pastrami sandwich out there that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.