Delicious Homemade Turkey Pastrami: Recipe & Tips

Turkey PastramiPhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Turkey Pastrami is a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional beef pastrami. This homemade version is packed with flavor and perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as a protein-packed snack.

>>>Get the Recipe in Details: Turkey Pastrami Recipe

Ingredients:

• 5 pounds fresh turkey breast
• 3 cups water
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup kosher salt
• 1/4 cup crushed juniper berries
• 1/4 cup freshly cracked black peppercorns
• 8 cloves fresh garlic, smashed
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup hickory chips (for smoking)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Brine:
2. • In a medium saucepan, combine the water, dark brown sugar, kosher salt, crushed juniper berries, freshly cracked black peppercorns, smashed garlic cloves, and red pepper flakes.
   • Heat the mixture until the sugar and salt are dissolved. Allow the brine to cool completely.
3. Brine the Turkey:
4. • Place the turkey breast in a large resealable bag or a container. Pour the cooled brine over the turkey, ensuring it is fully submerged. Seal the bag or cover the container and refrigerate for 2-3 days, turning occasionally to ensure even brining.
5. Prepare the Rub:
6. • After brining, remove the turkey breast from the brine and rinse it well under cold water. Pat dry with paper towels.
   • In a spice grinder or food processor, pulse together 1/2 cup juniper berries, 1/4 cup black peppercorns, 1/4 cup dark brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes until finely ground.
   • Rub the spice mixture all over the turkey breast. Cover tightly and refrigerate for 24 hours.
7. Smoke the Turkey:
8. • Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Soak the hickory chips in water for 15 minutes, then drain.
   • Place the soaked hickory chips in a smoker box or wrap them in aluminum foil with holes poked in the top to allow smoke to escape.
   • Place the turkey breast on a rack in a roasting pan. Place the smoker box or foil packet in the oven.
   • Roast the turkey breast for 1 hour at 250°F (120°C), then increase the temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C), about 1-1.5 hours more.
9. Cool and Slice:
10. • Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Thinly slice the turkey pastrami against the grain.

Conclusion:

Homemade Turkey Pastrami is a flavorful and satisfying deli meat that you can enjoy in a variety of ways. The brining and smoking process infuses the turkey with rich, savory flavors, making it a standout addition to any meal. Whether you’re making sandwiches, adding it to salads, or enjoying it on its own, this turkey pastrami is sure to impress. Enjoy the delicious taste of homemade deli meat and savor the satisfaction of creating it yourself!

Would you like more recipes or tips on how to customize your turkey pastrami?