But what happens when you run out of mustard seeds or just don’t have them on hand? Fear not, because we’ve got you covered with these 5 fantastic substitutes!
What Are Mustard Seeds?
Mustard seeds are the seeds of the mustard plant and come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, and yellow.
When used in cooking, mustard seeds are often toasted to bring out their unique flavor and aroma. They can be ground into a powder and used as a seasoning, or used whole in pickling and other recipes.
Mustard seeds are also a classic ingredient in homemade mustard, where they’re combined with vinegar and other seasonings to create a tangy and flavorful condiment.
One of the great things about mustard seeds is their versatility as they can be used in a variety of cuisines, from Indian curries to French sauces.
In addition to that, they pair well with a variety of meats, including beef, pork, and chicken, and can add depth to vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetables or lentil stews.
Apart from their culinary uses, mustard seeds are also believed to have health benefits; they’re rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them a popular ingredient in natural remedies and supplements!
But when you have run out of them, what can you use as a substitute? Let’s see!
1. Mustard Powder
First up, we have mustard powder! Made from finely ground mustard seeds, this powder packs a flavorful punch that’s perfect for dressings, marinades, and sauces.
It has a slightly milder taste than whole mustard seeds but still offers that characteristic tang and heat and, of all the substitutes on this list, it definitely comes closest to replicating the flavor of whole mustard seeds.
Its intense aroma and spicy, pungent taste make it a popular ingredient in many cuisines and it can be used as a condiment, a seasoning, or a thickening agent. Therefore, it is an incredibly versatile ingredient in the kitchen.
One of the great things about mustard powder is its ability to create a smooth, creamy texture when mixed with water, vinegar, or other liquids which makes it perfect for creating homemade mustards or adding a tangy kick to dressings, marinades, and sauces.
Mustard powder also pairs well with a variety of other flavors, including garlic, honey, and lemon and it’s often used in spice rubs for meats, adding depth and complexity to dishes like roasted chicken or grilled pork chops.
And let’s not forget about deviled eggs, a classic party appetizer that wouldn’t be complete without a dollop of mustard powder mixed in with the yolks!
2. Horseradish
Horseradish is a root vegetable that has a pungent, spicy flavor that’s reminiscent of mustard seeds.
Its distinct aroma and taste make it a popular ingredient in condiments like horseradish sauce or prepared mustard.
When used as a substitute for mustard seeds, horseradish adds a bold and zesty flavor to dishes, which is why it is used in meals like sandwiches, roast beef, and seafood.
Moreover, its sharp flavor complements rich meats like prime rib or brisket and can cut through the richness of fatty fish like salmon or trout, so if you love fish, don’t think twice about it!
In fact, horseradish is a common ingredient in cocktail sauce for shrimp and oysters, meaning that you should definitely try it with seafood too!
However, if there’s one thing you should know about horseradish is its unique ability to clear sinuses and stimulate the palate.
This alone makes it a great ingredient in spicy foods and even cocktails, so try adding a dash of horseradish to your next Bloody Mary or vodka tonic for an extra kick!
When it comes to using horseradish as a substitute for mustard seeds, start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
Horseradish is very potent, so a little goes a long way. And if you’re looking to make a homemade mustard, mix horseradish with vinegar, honey, and spices for a tangy and flavorful condiment.
3. Dijon Mustard
This beloved condiment is a staple in many kitchens and adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor to dishes.
Unlike mustard powder or horseradish, Dijon mustard is a prepared condiment made from mustard seeds, vinegar, and other seasonings.
One of the great things about Dijon is its versatility as it can be used as a condiment, a marinade, or a seasoning for sauces and dressings.
It also pairs well with a variety of meats, including chicken, pork, and beef, and can add depth to vegetarian dishes like roasted vegetables or lentil salads.
Moreover, its tangy and slightly sweet flavor profile makes it a popular ingredient in French cuisine, where it’s often used in vinaigrettes or to enhance the flavor of sauces like béarnaise or hollandaise.
It’s also a classic ingredient in the famous dish, coq au vin, where it’s used to add flavor to the chicken and sauce. So really, use it with anything!
However, when using Dijon mustard as a substitute for mustard seeds, keep in mind that it has a smoother texture and a more pronounced flavor, so in sauces and salads it’s a top pick!
4. Yellow Mustard
The good ol’ yellow mustard!
This classic condiment is a staple in many households and adds a familiar tangy and slightly sweet flavor to dishes.
Dijon mustard, which has a more complex flavor profile, yellow mustard is a simple condiment made from mustard seeds, vinegar, and turmeric.
What is more, yellow mustard is perfect for adding a touch of tang to sandwiches, hot dogs, and burgers, while its smooth texture and mild flavor make it a great choice for those who prefer a more subtle mustard taste.
However, don’t let its simplicity fool you; yellow mustard can still pack a punch when used in the right dishes.
When using yellow mustard as a substitute for mustard seeds, keep in mind that its flavor is milder and less complex.
This makes it a good choice for recipes where a more subtle mustard flavor is desired, while it also pairs well with other condiments like ketchup and mayo, making it a classic ingredient in sauces and dressings!
5. Wasabi Powder
Wasabi powder is another pungent and fiery powder that is, however, made from the root of the wasabi plant and has a flavor that’s similar to mustard seeds.
Yet, unlike other mustard substitutes, wasabi powder packs a punch with its intense heat and unique aroma. Therefore, when using it as a substitute for mustard seeds, keep in mind that a little goes a long way!
Its potency makes it a great ingredient for adding a kick to sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes. However, it can also be used in other cuisines to add a spicy twist to classic recipes.
In addition to that, its versatility makes it a great addition to your pantry as it can be used as a condiment, a marinade, or a seasoning, and is a classic ingredient in Japanese cuisine.
But wasabi powder is not just limited to Japanese cuisine. Its heat and aroma can also be used to add a spicy twist to classic dishes like deviled eggs or potato salad.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a dash of wasabi powder to your next Bloody Mary for an extra kick!
The Bottom Line
There you have it; next time you run out of mustard seeds, try either one of these 5 substitutes and you are up for a pleasant culinary surprise!
Looking For The Best Mustard Seeds Substitutes? Try These 5 Options
Recipe by AubreyCourse: Substitutes
Servings
4
servings
Prep time
30
minutes
Cooking time
40
minutes
Calories
300
kcal
If you are looking for the best mustard seeds substitutes to create some flavorful dishes, then the 5 options we have in this article are the ones you need!
Hi, I’m Aubrey, and I have been a chef for close to 8 years. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, as long as I can remember. I loved my play kitchen when I was a kid, and would offer my parents my own (albeit gross) cookie recipes to taste!
Here at ButterandSaltGatherings, I want to offer a wide range of ingredients, flavors, meals and recipes so that you can start living each day to the fullest, and enjoy only the best food.
