Do you prefer Dijon or spicy brown mustard?
But what exactly is mustard, and how do we know which punch in is best?
What Is Mustard and Why Are Some Types Spicier?
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Mustard is one of the world’s oldest condiments.
Some are sweet, some are spicy, and others are downright astringent.
Yellow mustard has a crisp, tart-and-tangy flavor that won’t be clearing anyone’s sinuses with spice.
Yeji Kim
Use it on burgers, dogs, or in homemade salad dressings or sauces.
Dijon Mustard
Dijon is a classic French mustard that’s been around since the late 1800s.
It’s often made with white wine and brown and/or black mustard seeds.
Yeji Kim
Dijon has a more pungent, spicy flavor than yellow mustard.
The sharp taste pairs particularly well with vinaigrettes, sandwich spreads, mayonnaise, or homemade sauces.
Honey Mustard
Just as the name implies,honey mustardis a combination of mustard and honey.
Yeji Kim
The ratio is typically one-to-one, but some styles are sweeter than others.
Thanks to its already tame flavor, yellow mustard tends to be the star in honey mustard.
Whole Grain Mustard
Whole grain mustard generally uses whole mustard seedssimple as that.
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The seeds are only partially crushed, so there’s texture in every bite.
It has a thicker, chunkier consistency and packs plenty of deep, rich flavor.
While the ingredients vary, it’s often made with vinegar or wine and brown and/or yellow mustard seeds.
Yeji Kim
Try it inroasted chicken with veggies, or mix it into a cider mustard glaze.
Look for it in the international aisle at the grocery store.
Dried mustard (aka ground mustard or mustard powder) is made by finely grinding mild yellow mustard seeds.
Yeji Kim
Specialty mustard powders might be made with spicier brown mustard seeds, but this isn’t as common.
