Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day is an unofficial food holiday celebrated on January 14th each year. It's a day dedicated to the delicious and savory sandwich that features one of the most iconic cured meats in Jewish-American cuisine: pastrami. This special day is an opportunity for pastrami fans and food lovers to indulge in this mouthwatering delicacy.

Pastrami, a flavorful and tender beef brisket, is at the heart of this celebration. The preparation of pastrami is a time-honored tradition that involves a multi-step curing and smoking process. Typically, the beef brisket is first soaked in a brine of water, salt, sugar, and a blend of spices like coriander, garlic, and black pepper. This curing process helps infuse the meat with rich flavors and gives it its characteristic reddish color.

After curing, the brisket is carefully rubbed with a special spice blend, which varies from one deli or region to another, but usually includes more black pepper, coriander, and garlic. This spice rub adds an extra layer of complexity to the pastrami's taste. The brisket is then slow-smoked until it becomes incredibly tender and acquires a delightful smoky aroma. This lengthy and labor-intensive process is what makes pastrami so beloved by many.

Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day is a time to appreciate the pastrami sandwich, the most popular way to enjoy this delectable meat. The classic pastrami sandwich consists of thinly sliced pastrami piled high between slices of rye bread. However, variations abound, with some including other ingredients such as Swiss cheese, mustard, pickles, and coleslaw. The sandwich is often grilled or heated to enhance its flavor and texture, resulting in a warm, juicy, and satisfying meal.

Beyond the enjoyment of the pastrami sandwich itself, Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day also serves as an opportunity to appreciate the cultural and culinary heritage of Jewish-American cuisine. Pastrami has deep roots in Jewish food traditions, and its popularity has transcended cultural boundaries to become a beloved staple in American deli menus. This celebration helps preserve and honor the history and craftsmanship behind this delicious creation.

In recent years, Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day has gained popularity on social media, with food lovers and chefs sharing their pastrami creations and tips for making the perfect sandwich. It's a day when foodies can come together to discuss their favorite pastrami experiences and discover new ways to enjoy this iconic meat.

Whether you enjoy a classic pastrami on rye or prefer a creative twist on this timeless favorite, Hot Pastrami Sandwich Day is an occasion to relish the deliciousness of pastrami and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones.

Discussion Questions:

1. What is the curing process for making pastrami?

2. Why does brisket need to be cured?

3. What spice blend is rubbed on the brisket? Why?

4. How is the brisket cooked?

5. How is a pastrami sandwich made?

6. What is Hot Pastrami Sandwich day?

7. What is a Chinese sandwich that is similar to the pastrami sandwich?