Mustard Seeds

Mustard seeds are the small round seeds of various mustard plants. The seeds are usually about 1 to 2 millimetres in diameter and may be colored from yellowish white to black.

WHAT IS MUSTARD SEED?

Mustard seeds are tiny, dark seeds about 1-2mm in diameter that come from a mustard plant, a member of the cabbage family. Mustard seeds may be small in size, but they bring a big flavor and can make any dish more interesting. They’re often used to bring depth and a bit of kick to mild ingredients, such as potatoes, chicken, and seafood. They are widely used in Indian, European, and African cuisines. Learn more about mustard seeds and how you can use this spicy ingredient to bring your recipes to life.

WHAT IS A MUSTARD SEED SUBSTITUTE?

There are a number of mustard seed substitutes you can use whenever you’re in a pinch, including:

• Ground Mustard. Ground mustard has a hotter flavor than mustard seed but can easily be used as a replacement. Start with a pinch and taste as you go.
• Caraway Seeds. This is an excellent mustard seed substitute with a similar flavor profile. Caraway brings a bittersweet flavor to recipes like rye bread, pork & stews.
• Horseradish. Like mustard seeds, horseradish brings heat to various meat and veggie dishes. Start with a small amount, then add a little more until you receive your desired level of heat.
• Prepared Mustard. If it’s to flavor a sauce or salad dressing, use prepared whole-grain mustard. One tablespoon equals one teaspoon of mustard seed.

WHAT ARE MUSTARD SEED USES?

Mustard seeds can be used in many ways in the kitchen. Add to your veggie or meat dishes to kick up the flavor and heat. Ground mustard seeds can also be used to make mustard sauces, salad dressings, and marinades. Mix it with water or vinegar to make your own homemade mustard. And it’s an essential ingredient if you plan to make relish. Whatever you’re using it for, mustard seeds are guaranteed to bring a spicy flavor you won’t get enough of.

WHAT DISHES AND CUISINES USE MUSTARD SEEDS?

Are you looking for new ways to use mustard seeds? We’ve got you covered. We love using mustard seeds in a number of dishes, including:

• Veggie dishes. Legumes and starchy vegetables, like potatoes, pair well with mustard seeds’ heat. Try adding them to your homemade potato salad, lentil soup, and baked bean recipes.
• Salad dressings, mustard sauces and marinades. Mix together some Dijon mustard, cream, garlic, and thyme to make a delicious sauce perfect for drizzling over grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Or, mix mustard seeds into your favorite salad dressing to bring your leafy greens a new flavor profile.
• Meat dishes. Mustard seed makes it easy to amp up chicken and fish recipes. Toast the seeds and sprinkle them on broiled fish, together with parsley flakes and a splash of lemon juice and olive oil. You can also add mustard seed to a pan with white wine and garlic while you braise chicken for a delicious, aromatic meal.

ARE THERE ANY MUSTARD SEED FUN FACTS?

If you had to guess what the top-selling spices were in the world, you probably wouldn’t think mustard seeds would make the list. However, mustard seeds are the world’s largest-selling spice, second only to pepper. They may not be sitting at the dining table next to your salt and pepper shakers, but mustard seeds can be found on the ingredient lists for many household condiments, such as pickles, chutneys, and other sauces.