Mustard

condiments · plants · flavor · history

Made from seeds. Mustard starts as tiny seeds from mustard plants, which come in three main types: white, brown, and black. These seeds get crushed and mixed with water, vinegar, and spices to create the creamy yellow paste you know and love.

Ancient favorite. People have been eating mustard for thousands of years! The ancient Romans mixed crushed mustard seeds with grape juice to create a sauce called 'mustum ardens,' which is where the word 'mustard' comes from.

Growing worldwide. Mustard plants grow in many countries around the world, from Canada to India to Europe. The plant itself is related to cabbage and broccoli, all part of the same plant family called Brassicaceae.

Perfect pairing. Mustard brings out flavors in hot dogs, hamburgers, sandwiches, and even fancy dishes. Its tangy kick comes from oils in the seeds that activate when they get wet, making it sharper or milder depending on the type.

Colors matter. Yellow mustard is mild and sweet, brown mustard is spicier, and black mustard is the hottest of all. Different types of seeds and cooking methods create these different flavors and colors.