There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with bold flavors and hearty ingredients. Pastrami soup is one of those delightful dishes that combines the smoky, savory goodness of pastrami with a rich broth and fresh vegetables.
Whether you’re looking to use up leftover deli meat or simply want to try a new twist on traditional soups, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, casual family dinners, or even meal prepping for the week ahead.
This soup is a wonderful blend of robust spices and tender ingredients that come together to create a satisfying, flavorful experience. With just a handful of simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can have a piping hot bowl of pastrami soup ready in under an hour.
Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pastrami soup recipe is a perfect mix of convenience and gourmet taste. Using pastrami—already seasoned and cooked deli meat—means the soup is quick to prepare without sacrificing depth of flavor.
The broth’s smoky undertones paired with fresh vegetables make every spoonful comforting yet vibrant.
It’s also versatile! Whether you want it chunky or a little more broth-forward, you can adjust the consistency to your liking.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover pastrami or deli meats, cutting down on food waste. The soup freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prep and busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups pastrami, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 cup diced potatoes (Yukon gold or russet)
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup sauerkraut, drained (optional, for extra tang)
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
- Optional: Immersion blender (if you prefer a smoother texture)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in your soup pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Stir in chopped pastrami, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and the pastrami to release its flavor.
- Pour in the beef broth and add smoked paprika, black pepper, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
- If using sauerkraut, stir it in now. Let the soup simmer uncovered for another 5 minutes to blend the tangy flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and additional pepper if desired. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
“For a creamier soup, blend half of the soup with an immersion blender and then mix it back in.”
You can easily customize this soup depending on your preferences. Want a spicier kick?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a heartier meal, toss in some cooked noodles or barley during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
If you’re not a fan of sauerkraut, feel free to omit it or substitute with a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess. For a vegetarian twist, replace pastrami with smoked tofu and use vegetable broth.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 1100mg* |
| Vitamin A | 35% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
*Sodium content may vary based on the pastrami and broth brands used.
Serving Suggestions
This pastrami soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty rye or sourdough bread for dipping. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the soup.
For a complete meal, serve alongside classic deli sides such as pickles or coleslaw. If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded Swiss cheese on top adds a creamy finish.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a pastrami lover or just looking for a unique soup experience, this pastrami soup recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and offers a cozy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
The combination of smoky pastrami, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth makes it a satisfying dish that will warm you up from the inside out.
Give this recipe a try and discover how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and share your favorite tweaks.
Happy cooking and enjoy every spoonful!
📖 Recipe Card: Pastrami Soup
Description: A hearty and flavorful soup featuring tender pastrami, vegetables, and a savory broth. Perfect for a comforting meal on chilly days.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT60M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pastrami, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add carrots and celery; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced pastrami and cook for 3 minutes.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Add potatoes, cabbage, smoked paprika, pepper, and salt.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 18 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 18 g
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