January 14th is observed as National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day, one of the many informal national food holidays celebrated in the United States.

Pastrami, a delicatessen meat, was brought to the USA by Jewish immigrants from Romania and Bessarabia in the late 19th century. Traditionally crafted from beef, turkey pastrami has also gained popularity. Originally developed as a method of meat preservation, the pastrami-making process involves brining the raw meat, followed by partial drying and seasoning with a blend of spices and herbs, such as cloves, garlic, allspice, mustard seed, coriander, paprika, and black pepper. The final steps include smoking and steaming, resulting in the flavorful pastrami enjoyed in hot sandwiches.

History and Significance: The origins of the pastrami sandwich can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when Jewish immigrants from Eastern Europe brought pastrami to the United States. Pastrami, originally a method of preserving meat, was adapted from the Romanian dish "pastramă." It quickly became a staple in New York City delis, particularly in the Lower East Side, which was home to many Jewish immigrants.

National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day celebrates this iconic sandwich and its cultural significance. It is a day to enjoy a culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations and to recognize the contributions of immigrant communities to American cuisine.

What is a Hot Pastrami Sandwich? A hot pastrami sandwich typically consists of the following components:

• Pastrami: Beef brisket that has been brined, seasoned with a blend of spices (such as coriander, black pepper, and garlic), smoked, and then steamed until tender.
• Bread: Traditionally served on rye bread, though other types of bread like pumpernickel or sourdough can also be used.
• Mustard: Classic yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard is commonly spread on the bread to complement the pastrami's flavors.
• Pickles: Dill pickles are often served on the side or added to the sandwich for extra crunch and tanginess.
• Optional Additions: Some variations include Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, or coleslaw for added texture and flavor.

How to Celebrate National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day:

• Visit a Deli: Enjoy an authentic hot pastrami sandwich at a local deli. Many delis pride themselves on their pastrami recipes, offering a taste of tradition and quality.
• Make Your Own: Try making a hot pastrami sandwich at home. Purchase high-quality pastrami from a butcher or deli, and assemble your sandwich with your favorite ingredients.
• Explore Variations: Experiment with different versions of the pastrami sandwich. Add cheese, pickles, sauerkraut, or other toppings to create your unique twist.
• Share with Friends: Invite friends or family over for a pastrami sandwich feast. Share different recipes and enjoy the meal together.
• Social Media: Share your hot pastrami sandwich creations on social media using hashtags like #HotPastramiSandwichDay and #PastramiLovers. Connect with others who are celebrating the day and exchange tips and recipes.

Simple Hot Pastrami Sandwich Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sliced pastrami
• 8 slices rye bread
• 4 tablespoons yellow mustard or spicy brown mustard
• 8 slices Swiss cheese (optional)
• 1 cup sauerkraut (optional)
• Butter for toasting

Instructions:

1. Heat Pastrami: Warm the sliced pastrami in a skillet over medium heat or steam it until hot.
2. Toast Bread: Lightly butter one side of each slice of rye bread. Toast the bread in a skillet or on a griddle until golden brown.
3. Assemble Sandwiches: Spread mustard on the unbuttered side of the toasted bread. Layer with hot pastrami and, if desired, add Swiss cheese and sauerkraut.
4. Melt Cheese: If using cheese, place the assembled sandwiches in a skillet and cover with a lid. Heat until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is warmed through.
5. Serve: Cut the sandwiches in half and serve hot, with dill pickles on the side.

Interesting Facts About Pastrami:

• Cultural Icon: Pastrami has become synonymous with New York City's deli culture, particularly in establishments like Katz's Delicatessen.
• Versatility: While the hot pastrami sandwich is a classic, pastrami can also be used in various dishes like pastrami hash, pastrami burgers, and even pastrami pizza.
• Popularity: Pastrami has gained international popularity, with variations of the pastrami sandwich found in delis and restaurants worldwide.

Conclusion: National Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day is a celebration of a beloved culinary classic that has become a staple of American cuisine. Whether enjoyed in a traditional deli setting, made at home, or shared with friends and family, the hot pastrami sandwich offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This day provides an opportunity to appreciate the rich history and cultural significance of the pastrami sandwich, honoring its roots and savoring its deliciousness.