Spices and Herbs (Mustard)

Mustard (Brassica hirta/Sinapis alba, Brasssica juncea, Brassica nigra)

Mustard seeds are the proverbially small seeds of the various mustard plants. The seeds are about 1 mm in diameter, and may be colored from yellowish white to black. The seeds can come from three different plants: black mustard (B. nigra), brown Indian mustard (B. juncea), and white or yellow mustard (B. hirta/Sinapis alba).
Mustard is best adapted to cool temperate climates and as such, currently over 80% of the world's condiment mustard seed is grown in Western Canada and North and South Dakota, USA. Other growing areas include eastern Europe, the UK, China and India. In the Indian subcontinent they are often used whole, and are quickly fried in oil until they pop to impart a flavor to the oil.

Mustard seeds are also ground and made into a thick yellow paste with a sharp taste that is prepared by mixing the ground seeds with water, vinegar or other liquids, and adding ingredients such as flour. A strong mustard can cause the eyes to water, burn the palate and inflame the nasal passages. For this reason, mustard can be an acquired taste for some.

There are many varieties of mustard, which vary in strength and flavor. Most popular are Dijon, Bavarian sweet, whole-grain and English mustards.
Mustard is most often used as a condiment on meat, especially cold meats such as ham - the French like strong Dijon mustard with steak. It is also used as an ingredient in mayonnaise and vinaigrette, in marinades and barbecue sauce. Honey mustard is most often used as a topping for sandwiches and as a dip for French fries, onion rings, and other finger foods. It can also be used as a base for salad dressing when combined with vinegar and/or olive oil. Mustard is a popular accompaniment to hot dogs or hamburgers, often in combination with ketchup or tomato sauce. The Colman's English Mustard is a very popular brand in this part of the world.
Dry mustard, typically sold in tins, is used in cooking and can be mixed with water to become prepared mustard.

spice mustard