What is Mustard (Brassica juncea)?
Mustard is a pungent spice produced from the ground seeds of a mustard plant, also known as Brassica nigra. It can be used in its powdered state as a dry rub, or as a paste made when the seeds are combined with water and allowed to become active. Commonly used in sauces, dressings and marinades, mustard is an essential condiment, and it is also used to make cheeses and pickles, as well as in soups and salads. It is available in many different varieties with varying levels of heat and flavors, including yellow, white, and black.
What does Mustard taste like?
Mustard is an unmistakably pungent, yet flavourful spice. It has a sharp and distinct heat that is both spicy and tangy, with a notable hint of mustard seed tang followed by a mild, lingering warmth. Generally speaking, the flavour of mustard is robust, with a delightful blend of strong, but not overwhelming heat and nutty undertones that add a unique depth to dishes.
What dishes do you find Mustard in?
Mustard is a key ingredient in many of the world’s most popular dishes. Among them, the classic French dish, moutarde à l’ancienne, which is a delicious combination of mustard and brandy. In Germany, Bratwurst is often served with a sweet hot mustard sauce. In the United States, the spicy-tangy flavour of mustard is beloved in recipes like the southern-style food of the Carolina barbecue, which often use a mustard-based sauce to dress up the meat. Even in French cuisine, Mustard is often used as a flavouring agent in salads, sauces, and condiments. In fact, the classic Dijon mustard is a staple condiment for many dishes.