Pastrami Rub
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Smoking or grilling some pastrami soon? This Pastrami Rub is a lifesaver! It’s a super easy blend of spices that comes together in just 5 minutes, but the flavor it imparts is incredible. This rub isn’t just for pastrami though – use it on beef brisket, pork ribs, or even roasted vegetables for a delicious and unique twist!

Why You’ll Love Pastrami Rub
- Easy as Pie: Just a few minutes and a handful of spices are all you need to whip up this flavor booster.
- Spice it Up (or Down): Want it spicy? Add more peppercorns. Prefer it milder? Go easy on the smoked paprika. It’s customizable to your taste!
- Beyond Pastrami: This rub isn’t just for pastrami! Use it on all sorts of meats and veggies for a burst of savory flavor.
- Pantry Staples: Chances are you already have all the ingredients in your pantry – no fancy spices required!
- Make Ahead & Store: Whip up a big batch of this rub and store it for later. It will be ready to add instant flavor to your next meal!
Ingredients Needed To Make Pastrami Rub
Make sure you scroll down to the recipe card to see the full list of ingredients needed for this recipe.
- Whole peppercorns
- Ground coriander
- Smoked paprika
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Mustard powder
How To Make Pastrami Rub
- Grind the Peppercorns: Toss those whole peppercorns into your herb grinder and give them a whirl until they’re coarsely ground.
- Spice Party: In a bowl, mix the ground peppercorns with all the other spices – coriander, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and mustard powder.
- Mix it Up: Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors.
- Ready, Set, Season! Now you’re ready to use your pastrami rub! Apply it generously to your pastrami, or any other meat or veggie you like. Leftover rub? No problem! Store it in an airtight container for whenever you need a flavor boost.

Commonly Asked Questions
Can I adjust the spice level of the rub?
Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of peppercorns and smoked paprika according to your preferred level of spiciness.
Can I use pre-ground peppercorns instead of whole peppercorns?
Yes, you can use pre-ground black pepper if you don’t have whole peppercorns available. However, freshly ground peppercorns will provide the best flavor.
What can I use this pastrami rub for?
This rub is perfect for seasoning pastrami before smoking or grilling. You can also use it to flavor other meats such as beef brisket or pork ribs.
Can I store the pastrami rub for later use?
Yes, you can store the pastrami rub in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for several months. Make sure to label the container with the date of preparation.
Can I use this rub for vegetables or tofu?
Absolutely! This flavorful rub can be used to season roasted vegetables or tofu for a delicious vegetarian or vegan option. Adjust the amount of rub according to your taste preferences.

Pastrami Rub
Equipment
- Measuring Spoons
- Herb grinder
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp whole peppercorns
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp mustard powder
Instructions
- Add the whole peppercorns to a herb grinder and grind until coarse.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground peppercorns with the ground coriander, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and mustard powder.
- Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
- Use the pastrami rub immediately or store it in an airtight container for later use.
This Pastrami Rub is a game-changer for anyone who loves to cook! It’s easy to make, incredibly versatile, and adds a ton of flavor to any dish. So next time you’re grilling, smoking, or roasting, give this rub a try. You won’t be disappointed!
