How to Make Pastrami Spice Mix at Home: Simple Recipe & Expert Tips

What is Pastrami Spice Mix?

Pastrami spice mix is a savory blend of spices used to cure and flavor pastrami meat. It's also versatile for other dishes like brisket, ribs, roasted vegetables, and popcorn. Here's a simple recipe to make it at home:

• 3 tbsp black peppercorns
• 2 tbsp coriander seeds
• 1.5 tbsp fennel seeds
• 1 tbsp mustard seeds
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Optional: ½ tsp juniper berries

The History of Pastrami Spice Blend

The origins trace back to Ottoman Turkey as "pastirma," later adapted by Romanian Jews in the 1800s using beef brisket. This blend evolved into the iconic New York deli staple, balancing heat, citrus, and smokiness for authentic flavor.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Ingredient	Flavor Contribution	Common Use Ratio (%)
Black Pepper	Heat, bite	30%
Coriander Seed	Citrusy, floral	20%
Fennel Seed	Sweet, anise-like	15%
Mustard Seed	Earthy, tangy	10%
Paprika	Color, mild sweetness	10%
Garlic Powder	Umami, savory backbone	10%
Juniper Berries (optional)	Woody, gin-like	5%

How to Use Pastrami Spice Mix Beyond Meat

• Brisket Rub – Apply generously before smoking for deep, deli-style flavor
• Roasted Vegetables – Toss carrots or cauliflower with olive oil and spice mix before roasting
• Popcorn Seasoning – Lightly spray with butter and sprinkle for a savory twist
• Hummus Boost – Stir 1 tsp into hummus for a smoky, umami-rich dip
• Grilled Cheese Upgrade – Rub on bread before pan-frying for crispy, flavorful crust

DIY Pastrami Spice Mix Recipe

Make your own blend in 10 minutes for fresher, customizable flavor:

Ingredients

• 3 tbsp whole black peppercorns
• 2 tbsp coriander seeds
• 1.5 tbsp fennel seeds
• 1 tbsp mustard seeds
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Optional: ½ tsp juniper berries

Instructions

1. Toast whole spices in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
2. Cool slightly, then grind in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
3. Mix in paprika and garlic powder thoroughly.
4. Store in an airtight container away from light for up to 6 months.

Top 5 Store-Bought Pastrami Spice Mixes Reviewed

Product Name	Main Features	Best For	Recommended Use	Occasion
McCormick Gourmet Pastrami Seasoning	Balanced, ready-to-use, consistent flavor	Beginners and casual cooks	Brisket, sandwiches, burgers	Weeknight dinners, quick lunches
Badia Spiced for Success – Pastrami Rub	Organic, no preservatives, fresh aroma	Health-conscious users	Home smoking, grilling	Backyard BBQs, family meals
Blue Ribbon Seasonings Authentic Pastrami Rub	High-quality, coarse texture, deep flavor	Pro home chefs and foodies	Slow-smoked meats, deli-style cuts	Deli parties, gourmet events
Penzeys Spices – Pastrami Seasoning	Vibrant, full-bodied flavor, customizable portions	Experienced cooks and tinkerers	Custom curing, rub blending	Food gifts, DIY kits
Stubb's Original Pastrami Rub	Smoky, robust, bold finish	BBQ lovers and pitmasters	Smoking ribs, brisket, pork shoulder	Competitions, weekend grilling

Pro Tips for Storing and Using Pastrami Spice Mix

• Grind Fresh – For peak flavor, grind whole spices just before use
• Toast Before Applying – Enhance aromatics by toasting spices on raw meat before searing
• Start Light – This blend is potent; begin with 1 tsp per pound of meat and adjust
• Pair with Fatty Cuts – Brisket, short ribs, or pork shoulder balance the spice intensity perfectly
• Try Dry Brining – Coat meat with spice mix and refrigerate overnight for deeper penetration

Why This Spice Mix Belongs in Your Pantry

Pastrami spice mix transforms ordinary ingredients into extraordinary dishes. Whether you're curing pastrami, seasoning vegetables, or upgrading snacks, this versatile blend delivers authentic deli flavor with minimal effort. Keep it stocked for quick, flavorful meals anytime!