Spiced Beef Pastrami
Pastirma (spiced cured beef) is the pride of Middle Eastern and Balkan mezze: fine beef wrapped in the famous spice coating of fenugreek, garlic and paprika. Its glycemic index does not apply, and it offers a spicy, rich taste that wakes up the senses without raising blood sugar by a single gram.
Glycemic index
Glycemic load
Calories
Protein
💡 Smart Nutritional Guidance
Consumption advice
Add two slices of pastirma to a two-egg omelette in a pan greased with a touch of butter; a filling keto breakfast that keeps your appetite in check all day.
Best preparation methods
Sauté it for just a few seconds over low heat so the fenugreek and garlic coating does not burn and turn bitter and tough.
Important Nutritional Note
The fenugreek and garlic in the coating have documented properties that improve insulin sensitivity, but its high saltiness calls for moderation in people with high blood pressure.
Nutrition facts
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Per typical portion (30 g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 147 kcal | 44.1 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g | 6.6 g |
| Carbohydrate | 1.5 g | 0.4 g |
| Available carbohydrate | 1.5 g | 0.4 g |
| Fat | 5.8 g | 1.7 g |
| Dietary fibre | 0 g | 0 g |
The typical portion is approximate, for comparison purposes.
Comparison & smarter alternatives
It provides 15 g of protein per 100 kcal, ranking 28 of 49 in Meat, fish & eggs (highest first).
Related foods from the same family:
Frequently asked questions
Is pastirma safe for diabetes and insulin resistance?
Completely, as far as blood sugar is concerned: it is free of carbohydrate and does not raise glucose; the only thing to watch is blood pressure because of the salt.
How many calories are in 30 g of pastirma (two to three slices)?
It contains about 45 kcal, 7 g of pure animal protein and about 1.7 g of fat.
Should the spice coating (fenugreek and garlic) be removed before eating?
The coating is very beneficial and antioxidant-rich; there is no need to remove it unless you dislike the smell of fenugreek or have a very sensitive stomach.
Reviewed by the WiBo Health medical team · Last reviewed 13 October 2026
Disclaimer: This guidance is for nutritional lifestyle orientation and does not constitute a diagnostic medical device under EU Regulation MDR 2017/745.