Homemade Pastrami

Ingredients and Weight:

1. Beef Brisket: 5 pounds (2.27 kg)
2. Salt: 2 tablespoons
3. Sugar: 1 tablespoon
4. Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
5. Garlic cloves: 5-6 (crushed)
6. Red wine vinegar: 1/4 cup
7. Smoked paprika: 1 tablespoon
8. Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
9. Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
10. Bay leaves: 3-4

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking: 6-8 hours (low temperature)
• Total Time: 6-8 hours 30 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large bowl, mix together all ingredients except the beef brisket.
2. Place the beef brisket in a shallow baking dish or roasting pan.
3. Pour the seasoning mixture over the beef and ensure it is evenly coated.
4. Cover the dish with foil and place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to overnight to marinate.
5. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
6. Remove the foil and place the beef in the oven, ensuring it is not touching any water or liquid.
7. Roast for 6-8 hours, until the pastry is crispy and the beef is tender and browned.
8. Remove from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
9. Serve with your choice of condiments or as a sandwich filling.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 servings total)

• Calories: Approximately 500-600 calories per serving (depending on additional condiments)
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 10-20g (from sugar and vinegar)
• Protein: 40-50g

Dish Characteristics:

• A classic American dish with a unique flavor profile due to the combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.
• The pastry is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, providing a rich and satisfying mouthfeel.
• The dish is perfect for sandwich fillings or as a standalone dish with condiments of your choice.

User Comments:

1. "The pastry was crispy and the beef was tender, just perfect!" - John Doe, New York
2. "The flavor combination was unique and really hit the spot." - Jane Smith, California
3. "I loved how easy it was to make at home, especially since all the ingredients were readily available." - Michael Johnson, Texas

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Ensure to use a good quality beef brisket for best results.
• Marinate for longer if possible to enhance flavor.
• This dish requires low and slow cooking, so ensure the oven temperature is not too high to prevent burning the pastry.
• You can adjust the seasoning according to your preference, adding more sugar or pepper as desired.