Jun 09 2026
RestaurantsMcGregors Butcher & BistroPastrami Reuben Recipe

Pastrami Reuben Recipe

Time8h
Serves4

House Made Lightly Smoked Pastrami, Gruyere Cheese, Sauerkraut, Russian Dressing, Pumpernikel.

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Ingredients

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Pastrami

Sandwich Assembly

Method

Pastrami Preparation

  1. 1

    Brining the Brisket

    In a large bowl, combine water and cure #1. Stir until dissolved. Add black peppercorns, coriander seeds, garlic powder, and paprika. Mix well.

  2. 2

    Marinating the Brisket

    Submerge the beef brisket in the brine mixture. Cover and refrigerate for 5-7 days, turning the meat every couple of days to ensure even curing.

  3. 3

    Smoking the Pastrami

    After brining, rinse the brisket under cold water. Pat dry and let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Smoke the brisket for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).

  4. 4

    Resting the Pastrami

    Remove the pastrami from the smoker and wrap it in foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

Sandwich Assembly

  1. 5

    Preparing the Bread

    Heat a skillet over medium heat. Butter one side of each slice of pumpernickel bread.

  2. 6

    Assembling the Sandwich

    On the unbuttered side of four slices of pumpernickel, layer sliced pastrami, Gruyere cheese, and sauerkraut. Drizzle Russian dressing on top and cover with the remaining slices of pumpernickel, buttered side out.

  3. 7

    Grilling the Sandwich

    In the heated skillet, grill the sandwiches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

  4. 8

    Serving

    Remove the sandwiches from the skillet, slice in half, and serve hot with additional Russian dressing on the side if desired.

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