Classic Vegan Pastrami Recipe Twist With Sensational Flavors

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Are you struggling to find a satisfying alternative to traditional pastrami that aligns with your vegan lifestyle? You’re not alone. Many people miss pastrami’s rich, smoky flavors but want to maintain a plant-based diet.

Fortunately, there’s a great option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Embrace the world of homemade vegan pastrami! This recipe is not only delicious but also simple to make. 

You can recreate the iconic deli experience right in your home with a few key ingredients and some kitchen creativity. Prepare to impress your friends and family with a dish that could easily become the number-one choice at your next gathering.

What Is Vegan Pastrami? 

Vegan pastrami is a plant-based alternative to traditional pastrami, typically made from beef. Instead of meat, vegan pastrami uses ingredients like seitan (wheat gluten), tofu, jackfruit, or other meat substitutes.

These are seasoned with a blend of spices that mimic classic pastrami’s distinctive smoky, peppery flavor. The aim is to recreate the texture and taste as closely as possible, offering a suitable option for vegans and those who prefer to avoid animal products.

Pay attention to how it’s prepared: it often involves marinating and cooking the vegan meat to achieve a satisfyingly chewy and flavorful finish.

Fact-Did you know that seitan, often used in vegan pastrami, has been a staple in Asian cuisines for centuries due to its high protein content and meat-like texture?

Recipe Directions 

Make the Celeriac

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
• Arrange the leek, fennel, onions, and garlic in a cast iron Dutch oven with a lid.
• Rub the outside of the celeriac with olive oil and season liberally with salt and pepper. Place it in the center of the pot with the vegetables.
• Pour in the vegetable stock, liquid smoke, miso, white wine, and soy sauce. Cover with the lid and bake in the oven for 1.5 hours, turning the celeriac halfway through.
• Once cooked, remove from the oven. Test doneness by inserting a skewer easily through the center.
• Set aside to cool, and reserve the liquid remaining in the Dutch oven.

Make the Marinade

• Roughly grate the cooked beetroot into a small, deep plastic container.
• Add all the remaining marinade ingredients to the beetroot, mixing well. Allow standing for 10-20 minutes until the liquid turns a beautiful dark red.
• Strain the solids from the marinade using a fine mesh sieve and discard them. Reserve the liquid.

To Finish

• After 30 minutes of cooling, remove the celeriac from the pot and slice it into 3mm thick slices using a mandolin.
• Carefully place the sliced celeriac into the marinated tub and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
• Remove the slices from the marinade and lay them on kitchen towels to absorb excess liquid.
• Arrange the slices on beautiful rye bread, topped with your favorite vegan cheese, vegan mayo, sauerkraut, pickles, and wholegrain mustard, to create the perfect sandwich. Enjoy your homemade vegan pastrami delight.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Spice Blend Changes: Experiment with different spices in your marinade to tailor the flavor profile to your taste. Add paprika, coriander, or a hint of clove for a deeper flavor.
• Different Vegetables: Try substituting celeriac with jackfruit or tofu for a different texture. These alternatives absorb flavors well and offer a unique twist on the traditional vegan pastrami.
• Smoking: If you have access to a smoker, you can smoke the celeriac before baking to enhance the smoky flavor, mimicking traditional pastrami even more closely.

Add-Ons

• Homemade Mustards: Elevate your sandwich with homemade mustard, such as honey, Dijon, or spicy brown mustard, for an extra kick.
• Vegan Aioli: Mix up a batch of vegan garlic aioli for a creamy, flavorful spread that complements the rich flavors of the pastrami.
• Caramelized Onions: Adding caramelized onions can introduce a sweet and savory element that pairs beautifully with the pastrami.

Toppings

• Pickled Additions: Beyond traditional pickles, add red onions, jalapeños, or even pickled carrots for extra tang and crunch.
• Fresh Vegetables: Sliced avocado, tomato, or crisp lettuce can add freshness and a bit of lightness to your sandwich.
• Coleslaw: A tangy vegan coleslaw on top of the pastrami adds a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor contrast.
• Fermented Foods: Incorporate sauerkraut or kimchi for additional depth of flavor and a boost of healthy probiotics.

Vegetable Substitutions

• Jackfruit: This fruit is known for its meaty texture, making it a popular substitute in vegan recipes. It absorbs flavors well, making it ideal for pastrami’s rich, smoky marinade.
• Tofu: Extra firm tofu can be sliced and marinated to mimic the texture of pastrami. It’s a protein-rich option that holds up well during cooking and provides a satisfying chewiness.
• Tempeh: Made from fermented soybeans, tempeh has a nutty flavor and firm texture. It slices neatly and can be marinated to enhance its natural flavors, making it a nutritious and flavorful alternative.
• Mushrooms: Portobello mushrooms, in particular, have a meaty texture and rich flavor, making them a fantastic substitute. Slice and marinate them like celeriac for a delicious, earthy version of vegan pastrami.
• Eggplant: When sliced and prepared properly, eggplant can mimic the texture of meat. It’s excellent for soaking up the smoky, spicy marinade typical of pastrami.
• Seitan: Often called “wheat meat,” seitan is made from gluten and has a very meat-like texture. It’s an excellent base for vegan pastrami, especially when looking for something that closely resembles the chew and feel of traditional meat.

Quick Tip-When preparing vegan pastrami, marinating your chosen vegetable or meat substitute overnight can significantly enhance the depth of flavor in the final dish.

Best Side Dishes

• Sweet Potato Fries Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavors of the pastrami.
• Cucumber Salad A light, refreshing salad with a vinegar-based dressing can cut through the richness of the pastrami.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts Roasting these with olive oil and salt brings out a nutty, savory flavor that complements hearty dishes.
• Quinoa Salad Add some colorful vegetables and a tangy dressing to quinoa for a nutritious and vibrant side.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes Creamy and rich, these can be made vegan with plant-based milk and butter substitutes.
• Sautéed Kale or Spinach Dark leafy greens sautéed with garlic add a healthful and flavorful touch.
• Coleslaw A tangy, crunchy slaw can add a refreshing contrast to the smoky vegan pastrami.

How To Serve?

• As a Sandwich: Layer slices of vegan pastrami on rye or sourdough bread, add toppings like sauerkraut, vegan cheese, and mustard. Serve with a side of pickles.
• Platter Style: Arrange thinly sliced vegan pastrami on a platter with a selection of dips such as vegan horseradish cream or mustard. Include slices of crusty bread and a variety of pickled vegetables.
• With a Salad: Serve the pastrami slices atop a fresh salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing. It’s a lighter option that highlights the pastrami’s flavors.
• As a Wrap: For a refreshing meal, wrap slices of vegan pastrami in a large leafy green, like collard greens, or a traditional tortilla with vegan cream cheese, sliced cucumbers, and sprouts.
• Appetizer Bites: Cut the pastrami into small pieces and serve on vegan crackers or cucumber slices with a dollop of vegan aioli or relish. This is a great option for parties.

Quick Tip-Pay attention to the thickness of your vegan pastrami slices. Thinner slices absorb the marinade better and more closely mimic the texture of traditional pastrami.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store the vegan pastrami in an airtight container. Properly stored, it can last for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Vegan pastrami freezes well for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
• Marinating Ahead: You may want to marinate the vegan pastrami a day before. This saves time and enhances the flavors, making the pastrami more savory and delicious.
• Pre-Slicing: If you plan a gathering or meal prep, slice the vegan pastrami and store it in the refrigerator after it cools. This makes it easy to assemble sandwiches or quickly add to dishes throughout the week.

Fact -Did you know that liquid smoke, often used in vegan pastrami recipes, is made by condensing smoke from wood chips, providing that essential smoky flavor without traditional smoking methods?

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Pastrami “Vegan”?

Traditional pastrami is made from beef or sometimes turkey, while vegan pastrami uses plant-based ingredients such as celeriac, tofu, seitan, or jackfruit. These substitutes are seasoned and cooked to mimic the texture and flavor of traditional pastrami, making the dish suitable for those following a vegan diet.

How Can I Achieve The Smoky Flavor Typical Of Traditional Pastrami In A Vegan Version?

To replicate the smoky flavor of traditional pastrami, you can use liquid smoke, a concentrated seasoning made by condensing smoke from burning wood.

Additionally, smoked paprika or a dash of smoked salt enhances the smoky profile. For an even more authentic touch, consider smoking the ingredients using a smoker.

Can Vegan Pastrami Be Frozen For Later Use?

Yes, vegan pastrami can be frozen. Ensure it is cooled completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic or aluminum foil. Store it in an airtight container or a zip-lock freezer bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to use.

What Are Some Serving Suggestions For Vegan Pastrami?

Vegan pastrami is versatile and can be served in various ways. It’s excellent in sandwiches, particularly rye bread with vegan cheese and mustard. You can also slice it thinly for use in wraps, salads, or as part of a vegan charcuterie board alongside pickles, vegan cheeses, and crusty bread.

Is Vegan Pastrami Healthy?

Vegan pastrami can be a healthier alternative to traditional meat-based pastrami, especially if made from whole food ingredients like celeriac or seitan. It is generally lower in cholesterol and saturated fats, though its healthiness can vary based on the type and amount of oil and seasonings used. Always consider the overall sodium content and the presence of any additives when evaluating its health benefits.