Ingredient substitute
What can you use instead of pastırma?
Bresaola, Pastrami and Smoked turkey breast are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.
The quick answer
Bresaola. Use the same amount. Lean air-dried beef; lacks the fenugreek-garlic coating.
Adjust: Rub with garlic, paprika and fenugreek if possible.
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Bresaola
Small adjustmentUse the same amount (ratio 1:1)
Lean air-dried beef; lacks the fenugreek-garlic coating.
- Flavor
- Beefy, mild.
- Texture
- Silky.
- Moisture
- Same.
- Adjust
- Rub with garlic, paprika and fenugreek if possible.
- Best for
- Eggs, Pide
not vegetarian
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Pastrami
Changes flavor or textureUse the same amount (ratio 1:1)
Different spice, smoked; works in eggs and toast.
- Flavor
- Smoky, peppery.
- Texture
- Tender.
- Moisture
- Same.
- Adjust
- Crisp slices in a pan.
- Best for
- Eggs, Sandwiches
not vegetarian
-
Smoked turkey breast
Changes flavor or textureUse the same amount (ratio 1:1)
Lean and mild.
- Flavor
- Smoky.
- Texture
- Tender.
- Moisture
- Same.
- Adjust
- Add extra garlic.
- Best for
- Sandwiches
not vegetarian
-
Dry-cured beef or jerky, shaved
Changes flavor or textureRatio 3/4 : 1 (ratio 3/4 : 1)
Chewy but savory.
- Flavor
- Salty beef.
- Texture
- Chewy.
- Moisture
- Lower.
- Adjust
- Slice paper-thin.
- Best for
- Eggs
not vegetarian
Common questions
What is the best substitute for pastırma?
Bresaola is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Lean air-dried beef; lacks the fenugreek-garlic coating.
How much should I use instead of pastırma?
It depends on the swap. Bresaola: Use the same amount. Pastrami: Use the same amount. Smoked turkey breast: Use the same amount.
More swaps
Scale it to your recipe
Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.