Description
Sink your teeth into a hearty, flavorful Montreal Smoked Meat Sandwich—the ultimate deli-style experience you can recreate right in your own kitchen. Piled high with tender, smoky beef brisket and served on warm rye bread with classic mustard, this sandwich is a tribute to the iconic dish from Montreal’s beloved Jewish delis.
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Ingredients
For the Smoked Meat (Shortcut Version):
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2 lbs cooked beef brisket (or corned beef), sliced thin
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1 tbsp black pepper
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1 tsp coriander
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp mustard powder
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½ tsp ground allspice
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp sugar
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¼ cup water or beef broth (for steaming)
For the Sandwiches:
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8 slices rye bread (light or marble rye)
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Yellow mustard (traditional deli style)
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Pickles or coleslaw (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Brisket
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Mix the pepper, coriander, garlic powder, paprika, mustard powder, allspice, salt, and sugar in a small bowl.
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Rub the seasoning mix over the sliced cooked brisket to coat it evenly.
Step 2: Steam the Meat
3. Place the seasoned meat in a steamer basket over simmering water or broth.
4. Cover and steam for 15–20 minutes until heated through and tender.
5. If you don’t have a steamer, wrap the meat in foil and heat in a 300°F oven with a bit of broth to keep it moist.
Step 3: Toast the Bread (Optional)
6. Lightly toast rye bread slices in a skillet or on a griddle for extra texture and warmth. This step is optional but adds to the deli-style experience.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich
7. Spread a generous layer of yellow mustard on one or both slices of bread.
8. Pile the hot, steamed smoked meat high onto the bottom slice.
9. Top with the second slice of rye bread.
10. Slice in half and serve immediately.
Notes
Use Quality Brisket – A well-marbled, slow-cooked brisket makes all the difference.
Steam Before Serving – Steaming enhances tenderness and warmth.
Don’t Skip the Mustard – The tanginess balances the rich meat beautifully.
Go Classic – Serve with a kosher pickle or coleslaw on the side for a deli-style touch.
Toast Lightly – A gentle toast keeps the rye bread from getting soggy while staying soft enough to bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Canadian (Montreal-style deli)