pastrami

Definition

A highly seasoned cured and smoked beef brisket, typically piled high on rye bread with mustard as a classic deli sandwich. The meat is rubbed with spices including coriander, black pepper, and garlic before smoking.

Example Usage

I ordered a pastrami on rye at the deli, heaped with extra mustard.

Origin

Derived from Yiddish 'pastirme,' which comes from Romanian 'pastrama,' itself borrowed from Turkish 'pastirma' (dried, cured meat).

Fun Fact

Katz's Delicatessen in New York City is famous for its pastrami sandwiches and has been serving them since 1888.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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