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6 Best Substitutes for Pastrami in Sandwiches & Deli Dishes

6 Best Substitutes for Pastrami

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This guide covers six practical substitutes for pastrami, detailing their best uses, key differences, and how to adjust seasonings and preparation for the closest results in your dishes.
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Prep Time 6 minutes
Cook Time 6 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Substitute Guide
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Corned Beef Use equal amounts (1:1). Add coarse black pepper to mimic pastrami’s peppery crust. Watch salt.
  • 1 Smoked Turkey Use equal amounts (1:1). Consider adding black pepper to boost spice.
  • Roast Beef Mix Use equal amounts (1:1) plus smoked paprika for spice.
  • 1 volume Smoked Tofu Use equal volume (1:1). Press tofu to remove moisture, then slice thin.
  • 1 Bresaola Use equal amounts (1:1). Serve cold or room temperature to avoid drying out.
  • 1 Turkey Pastrami Use equal amounts (1:1). Add a thin layer of mustard to boost moisture and tang.

Method
 

  1. Choose a substitute depending on your dish’s needs: smoke, spice, or meat texture.
  2. For Corned Beef, warm it and add coarse black pepper to mimic pastrami’s peppery crust. Reduce added salt as it is saltier.
  3. For Smoked Turkey, use the same amount and consider adding black pepper for more spice.
  4. For Roast Beef Mix, sprinkle smoked paprika on both sides of the slices before serving to add smoky spice.
  5. For Smoked Tofu, press out excess moisture, slice thin, and use as a plant-based substitute in sandwiches or wraps.
  6. Serve Bresaola cold or at room temperature to prevent drying. Pair with peppery greens and drizzle olive oil if desired.
  7. For Turkey Pastrami, use an equal amount and add a thin layer of mustard to enhance moisture and tang.
  8. Taste test and adjust seasoning as needed to best match the flavor profile of pastrami in your recipe.

Notes

Press smoked tofu well to avoid watery texture when used as a pastrami substitute in sandwiches.

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