Moist, tender, and boldly seasoned, this Katz’s-inspired homemade pastrami features a pepper–coriander crust kissed by smoke for a deli-worthy bite at home.
Start with a good, store-bought corned beef (brisket).
Soak the corned beef in water to remove excess salt, changing the water as needed.
Pat dry, then coat all sides generously with a pastrami rub (primarily coarse black pepper and crushed coriander).
Smoke the meat for a few hours until it takes on good color and smoke flavor.
Wrap tightly in aluminum foil (Texas Crutch) and continue cooking until tender.
Rest briefly, then slice thinly across the grain and serve.