I'll Have What She's Having

Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts and cinephiles!

If you're a fan of iconic movie scenes and delicious vegan eats, you're in for a treat! Today, we're diving into a recipe that's close to my heart - a Vegan Pastrami Sandwich inspired by the legendary scene in "When Harry Met Sally." Yes, that scene!

This sandwich isn't just a tribute to a classic film; it's a celebration of how versatile and exciting vegan cooking can be. And, of course, it's 100% plant-based. We've swapped out the traditional meat for a savory, spiced seitan that will make your taste buds sing.

Vegan Pastrami Sandwich Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Vegan Pastrami:

  • 1 cup vital wheat gluten

  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander

  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves

  • 1 cup vegetable broth

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tsp liquid smoke

• For the Russian Dressing:

  • 1/2 cup vegan mayonnaise

  • 2 tbsp ketchup

  • 1 tbsp finely chopped pickles

  • 1 tsp horseradish (optional)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

• Additional Ingredients:

  • Sliced rye bread

  • Vegan coleslaw (premade or homemade with shredded cabbage, vegan mayo, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper)

  Instructions:

  1. Make the Vegan Pastrami:

     • In a large bowl, mix together vital wheat gluten, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground coriander, black pepper, onion powder, and ground cloves.

     • In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable broth, soy sauce, olive oil, and liquid smoke.

     • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until a dough forms. Knead the dough for a few minutes.

     • Shape the dough into a loaf and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil.

     • Steam the loaf for 1 hour. Then, let it cool before slicing thinly.

  2. Prepare the Russian Dressing:

     • In a small bowl, mix together vegan mayonnaise, ketchup, chopped pickles, and horseradish (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  3. Assemble the Sandwich:

     • Lightly toast the rye bread slices.

     • Spread a generous amount of Russian dressing on one slice of bread.

     • Layer the vegan pastrami slices and top with vegan coleslaw.

     • Close the sandwich with another slice of bread, dressing side down.

  4. Serve:

     • Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately, perhaps with a side of pickles or your favorite vegan side dish.

Tips and Tricks:

• Get the full experience by watching our step-by-step video on Vegan Video's YouTube channel. You'll see me in action, recreating this masterpiece and sharing some fun facts about the movie!

• Feel free to get creative with your coleslaw or add some extra toppings. This sandwich is all about making it your own.

And speaking of videos, have you checked out our latest episode on "Vegan Video"? We dive into the world of nostalgic eats and movies, starting with this very recipe. You can watch the full episode here, where I not only cook but also delve into some delightful movie trivia!

We love engaging with our community, so after you've tried this recipe, why not share your creation with us? Tag us on Instagram or use the hashtag #VeganVideoClassics. We might just feature your culinary masterpiece in our next episode!

This vegan pastrami sandwich is more than a meal; it's a journey back to a beloved moment in film, a connection to a more compassionate way of eating, and a celebration of flavor. So, grab your apron, and let's make movie magic in the kitchen!

Until next time,

Ashley