First Step: Begin by preparing the Russian Dressing. In a bowl, mix 1 tbsp finely minced onion, 1 tbsp finely minced dill pickle, 3/4 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2.5 tbsp sriracha or spicy ketchup, 3 tsp horseradish, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, and 1/4 tsp sweet paprika until everything is well combined. Pop it in the fridge for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld trust me, this step makes a big difference!

Second Step: Move on to the Quick Sauerkraut. First, dissolve 2 tsp sugar and 1 tsp salt in 1 1/4 cups cider vinegar. In a pot, heat 1 tbsp grapeseed oil over medium heat, then add 1/2 onion, thinly sliced, and soften it for about 2 minutes. Toss in 350g (12 oz) shredded white cabbage, the vinegar mixture, 1/3 cup water, and 1 tsp caraway seeds if you’re using them. Cover the pot and simmer on low for 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through, then let it cool until it’s just warm.

Third Step: Get the pastrami ready. Slice your 1 kg (2 lb) homemade pastrami thinly while it’s cold to keep it from falling apart. Place the slices in a container with some of the reserved pastrami cooking liquid, then warm it up in the microwave or oven until it’s heated through. This keeps the meat juicy and flavorful, just like in a real deli.

Fourth Step: Assemble the sandwiches. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium heat and toast 10 slices of light rye bread until they’re golden. Spread butter on one side of each slice and add the Russian Dressing on the other side. On one dressed slice, layer the warm pastrami (letting any excess liquid drip off), a good amount of the quick sauerkraut, and top with a slice of Swiss cheese. On the other dressed slice, add another slice of Swiss cheese.

Fifth Step: Grill the sandwiches. Place the assembled sandwiches on the grill or under the broiler and cook until the cheese melts and the bread is crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Press down gently with a spatula for that perfect seal. Once done, combine the slices, cut in half if you like, and serve hot for the ultimate satisfaction.