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As a quintessential deli meat salt beef holds a special place in Toronto’s food scene. The city has no shortage of delis and sandwich shops crafting this flavorful cured and brined beef into delicious sandwiches. But with so many options where can you find the best salt beef in Toronto?
In this guide, we’ll explore the top spots to get high-quality salt beef based on local reviews and expert opinions. Whether you’re looking for a classic deli sandwich or creative salt beef dishes, Toronto has something for every craving.
Overview of Salt Beef
First, what exactly is salt beef? It starts with a brisket or navel cut of beef that gets cured in a brine of water, salt, spices, and sometimes sugar. This curing process takes several weeks.
The beef absorbs the flavors while also getting preserved. It develops a deep red color and robust seasoned taste. Pastrami starts as salt beef before getting spiced and smoked.
The curing and aging process makes the meat incredibly tender. When cooked, salt beef offers a concentrated beefy flavor that makes it perfect for sandwiches. It also gets used in soups, stews, platters, and other dishes.
Where to Buy Salt Beef in Toronto
Sanagan’s Meat Locker
With over 120 reviews on Yelp, Sanagan’s Meat Locker emerges as a top choice for salt beef. This Kensington Market shop offers premium grass-fed Ontario beef.
Their salt beef gets cured for over 3 weeks in house. It delivers full-bodied flavor. Beyond sandwiches, Sanagan’s uses the salt beef in creative plates like tacos, poutine, and beef pie.
Sanagan’s scratch-made condiments like pickles, mustard, and rye bread complete the sandwiches. Reviewers rave about the moist and tender salt beef at this local favorite.
Pancer’s Original Deli
This popular deli in North York has cured its own salt beef for over 50 years. third-generation family recipes ensure authenticity. The in-house curing and smoking process takes over three weeks.
Pancer’s serves the salt beef in classic deli sandwiches layered high on rye bread with mustard. Customers highlight the generous portions and juicy, rich salt beef flavor. Pancer’s also offers salt beef by the pound to enjoy at home.
Nosso Talho
At this Portuguese butcher shop and deli in Little Portugal, Nosso Talho dry cures salt beef using old family recipes. The beef gets rubbed with coarse sea salt and spices, then dry aged.
Nosso Talho’s acclaimed salt beef can be found in their sandwiches, platters, and deli meals. Beyond the signature salt beef, this local shop also stocks a wide array of authentic Portuguese cured meats, smoked fish, and sausages.
Top Salt Beef Sandwiches in Toronto
While many delis let you buy salt beef by the pound, nothing beats a perfectly crafted salt beef sandwich. Here are go-to spots for salt beef sandwiches:
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Caplansky’s Deli – Thinly sliced salt beef piled high on rye bread with mustard at this popular Dundas West deli.
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The Friendly Red Fox – Hearty salt beef sandwiches along with schnitzel, pierogis, and stuffed cabbage at this north Toronto Polish spot.
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Mangia & Bevi – Creative takes like the French Dip salt beef sandwich and mini salt beef sliders at this King West diner.
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Demsipy’s – Salt beef, hand-cut fries, and pickle combos draw loyal regulars to this no-frills joint.
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Schmaltz Appetizing – Creative loaded salt beef sandwiches served over latkes, in wontons, or on challah bread.
Beyond Sandwiches: Salt Beef Dishes
While sandwiches may be the signature salt beef item, Toronto restaurants also get creative with the ingredient:
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Salt beef poutine – Fries and cheese curds topped with salt beef gravy, like at Holy Chuck Burgers
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Salt beef tacos – Salt beef brings a fun twist to tacos at Grand Electric and El Catrin
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Salt beef hash – Tender salt beef mixed with potatoes, onions, and peppers, served at brunch spots like Le Swan and Aunties and Uncles
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Salt beef ramen – Ramen shops like Kenzo and Konjiki use salt beef as a flavorful topping
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Salt beef pizza – Salty, savory salt beef makes an indulgent pizza topping, done well at General Assembly Pizza
Tips for Buying and Cooking Salt Beef
Seeking the best salt beef for home? Keep these tips in mind:
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Look for salt beef with deep red color and decent marbling for flavor.
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Opt for salt beef from the brisket or navel over the round cut.
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Cook low and slow, at 300F, until fork tender to warm up refrigerated salt beef.
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Slice salt beef thinly across the grain for maximum tenderness.
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Keep unused salt beef stored in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Whether sandwiches, soups, or platters, salt beef offers a uniquely savory flavor profile. For the best local salt beef in Toronto, delis and specialty food shops have an array of quality options. Taste the city’s take on this iconic deli ingredient at the top spots around town.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between pastrami and salt beef?
Pastrami starts as brined and cured salt beef, but gets additional seasoning and smoking to finish it. Pastrami tends to be spicier, smokier, and slightly drier than salt beef.
How long does salt beef last?
Refrigerated, ready-to-eat salt beef lasts around 7-10 days. Uncooked salt beef can keep 3-4 weeks refrigerated. For longer storage, freeze salt beef for up to 3 months.
What’s the most authentic salt beef in Toronto?
For traditional Jewish-style salt beef, Pancer’s Deli and Caplansky’s Deli offer classic recipes and curing methods. Sanagan’s Meat Locker sources local beef for artisanal salt beef.
What’s the best way to use up leftover salt beef?
Leftover salt beef is great in rice bowls, omelets, fried rice, soups, sandwiches again, and even pizza toppings. Slice thin and pan fry to reheat.
What goes well with a salt beef sandwich?
Mustard is the classic condiment for salt beef sandwiches. Pickles, coleslaw, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing also pair nicely. For side, fries, knishes, or potato salad make excellent pairings.
