What is the Difference between Corned Beef and Pastrami?

For someone who really cares about the basic differences between the popular food items come in as something natural. One major instance of the aforementioned difference is that of corned beef and pastrami. While both are popular meat dishes, there are a wide number of differences between the two. However, many are still unaware of the basic differences between the two meat products.

From the method of cooking to flavors, here is how the two popular food items are different from each other.

What Is Corned Beef?

A popular ingredient in numerous cuisines, corned beef is a salt-cured food item which is usually prepared by treating the meat with rock salt. It is a perfect food item for the traditional dinner and is served best with cabbage or potatoes.

(Image Courtesy: Epicurious)

What Is Pastrami?

A meat product, pastrami is usually made out of beef, pork, mutton, or turkey. Interestingly, making pastrami was initially used as a way to preserve the meat. It is usually made by smoking and steaming the raw meat.

(Image Courtesy: Serious Eats)

More on: Non - Veg Food That Minimizes The Risk of Cholesterol 

Difference Between Pastrami And Corned Beef

#1. Different Meat Cuts

For any meat products, the cut from which it has been taken is quite an important factor. While corned beef is made out of meat brisket which is usually found in the lower chest of the steer, meat for pastrami is usually taken out of the beef navel. However, in order to experiment with a new taste and style, meat for pastrami is also being taken from distinctive beef cuts and poultry.

(Image Courtesy: The Spruce)

#2. Different Flavors

The two meat products are quite different when it comes to flavor. The flavors for corned beef and pastrami are determined by the spices that are added while brining the meat. However, what makes the two different is that pastrami involves an additional rubbing of scrumptious seasoning on the outer layer of the meat.

(Image Courtesy: Live The Live)

#3. Different Cooking Methods

The preparation methods of both the meat products involve brining, which implies injecting them with a solution of salt and water. However, after the brining process, the cooking method for the two products take on different approaches altogether. While corned beef is prepared in boiling water, pastrami is usually smoked and steamed.

(Image Courtesy: The Local Beet)

We would love to hear from you. Feel free to bring up more differences between corned beef and pastrami. Kindly use the comment box to share your thoughts and opinions with us.