How to make Pastrami (using brisket flats!) – Jess Pryles

Step 1

Trim the brisket flat of any remaining fat.

Step 2

Combine water, sugar and salt in a small pan and place over low heat. Stir until sugar and salt have dissolved, then allow mix to cool. Once cooled, add in curing salt and spices.

Step 3

Lay brisket in a large container and cover with cure mix. The meat must be completely immersed. Cover and place in fridge for 5-6 days.

Step 4

Remove brisket flat from brine/cure. It will be a pale grey in color, this is normal. Discard the cure and replace with plain water. Allow brisket to soak 1-2 hours.

Step 5

Combine all ingredients for the rub in a bowl. Remove brisket from the water and use paper towel to pat dry.

Step 6

Season the brisket well with the rub, pushing and massaging it into the surface. The rub should be very concentrated and “crusty”. Place the rubbed brisket back into the fridge, uncovered, overnight.

Step 7

Fire up a smoked to 250f. Place the brisket into the smoker, and smoke for 4-6 hours until an internal temperature of 165f is reached.

Step 8

Heat an oven to 250f. Remove brisket from smoker, and tightly wrap in 3-4 layers of cling wrap, then 2 layers of foil.

Step 9

Place brisket into oven to continue cooking until it reaches 205f internal temperature, which may take another 4-6 hours.

Step 10

Slice and serve warm pastrami – it’s recommended you serve with pickles, mustard and rye bread.