Classic Pastrami on Rye Sandwich
Ingredients:
1 pound thinly sliced pastrami (store-bought or homemade)
4 slices rye bread (seeded or unseeded)
2 tablespoons spicy brown mustard (or deli-style mustard)
Optional: 4 slices Swiss cheese
Optional: 1/4 cup sauerkraut, drained
Optional: Pickles for serving
Instructions:
Warm the Pastrami:
Place the pastrami in a steamer or a heatproof dish over a pot of simmering water. Cover and steam for 5-7 minutes until warm and tender. Alternatively, you can microwave it for 30-60 seconds.
Prepare the Bread:
Lightly toast the rye bread slices if desired. This adds a nice crunch and prevents the sandwich from getting soggy.
Assemble the Sandwich:
Spread a generous layer of spicy brown mustard on one side of each slice of rye bread.
Layer the warm pastrami evenly on one slice of bread. If using, add Swiss cheese and sauerkraut on top of the pastrami.
Top with the second slice of rye bread, mustard-side down.
Serve:
Cut the sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately with a side of pickles or coleslaw.