Beef Pastrami Recipe

Name: Beef Pastrami
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 5 lbs beef brisket; 2 tablespoons black peppercorns; 2 tablespoons dried thyme; 6 bay leaves, crumbled; 2 teaspoons whole cloves; 1/4 cup minced garlic; 2 teaspoons whole juniper berries; 1/4 cup crushed juniper berries; 6 cups water; 3/4 cup packed brown sugar; 3/4 cup kosher salt; 2/3 cup fresh coarse ground black pepper

Servings: persons

5 lbs beef brisket
2 tablespoons black peppercorns
2 tablespoons dried thyme
6 bay leaves, crumbled
2 teaspoons whole cloves
1/4 cup minced garlic
2 teaspoons whole juniper berries
1/4 cup crushed juniper berries
6 cups water
3/4 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup kosher salt
2/3 cup fresh coarse ground black pepper

1
In a small mixing bowl combine the peppercorns, thyme, bay leaves, cloves, garlic and whole juniper berries.
2
In a large saucepan over medium heat combine the water, brown sugar and salt.
3
Bring to a boil.
4
Stir to dissolve the sugar/salt mixture.
5
Remove from heat and stir in the dry spice mixture.
6
Steep for one hour.
7
Place the brisket in a large freezer bag.
8
Pour the brine into bag, press out air and seal.
9
Refrigerate for 3 weeks, turning the brisket every three days, in my case when I think about it.
10
Preheat your smoker.
11
In a small bowl combine the crushed juniper berries and black pepper.
12
Remove brisket from bag and discard brine.
13
Lightly pat dry.
14
Press firmly into one side of the meat 1/2 of the juniper/pepper mix.
15
Turn and repeat.
16
Place brisket in smoker and smoke for 4 hours.
17
Remove from smoker and cool for 30 minutes.
18
Place brisket in a large dutch oven.
19
Cover with water and turn heat to medium high.
20
Bring to a boil.
21
Reduce heat to simmer, cooking for two hours.
22
Remove from dutch oven and cool completely.
23
At this point you can slice very thin and serve, or tightly wrap with plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag and refrigerate.

1619

kcal

Calories

Fat

Carbs

149

Protein

Fat Carbs Protein

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.

Tips for the best results

Read through all the steps once before you start and measure out your ingredients first — it makes everything go more smoothly.
Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning before serving.
Avoid overcrowding the pan — cook in batches if needed for the best texture.
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving so the flavors settle.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy within a few days.

Variations & substitutions

Brown sugar instead of white sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like flavor.

No specific allergen information. Please check the ingredient list for possible allergens.

My Personal Notes

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How did you like this recipe?

This recipe makes 4 servings. You can adjust the portion size directly on this page.

You need 12 ingredients. The key ingredients include: 5 lbs beef brisket, 2 tablespoons black peppercorns, 2 tablespoons dried thyme, 6 bay leaves, crumbled, and more.

Yes, Beef Pastrami falls under the Meat & Poultry category and is a great choice for this type of meal.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently before serving.

That's it — enjoy your meal!

Beef Pastrami

Tips for the best results

Variations & substitutions

My Personal Notes

How did you like this recipe?

Frequently Asked Questions