Mustard

Mustard is a condiment made from the seeds of mustard plants, usually mixed with liquid such as water, vinegar, wine, or lemon juice to form a paste or sauce.

Mustard is a condiment made from the seeds of mustard plants, usually mixed with liquid such as water, vinegar, wine, or lemon juice to form a paste or sauce. It is known for its pungent, tangy flavour and is widely used in cuisines around the world. In Canada, mustard is a common condiment, especially on sandwiches, burgers, and processed meats, and is widely sold in grocery stores and used in Canadian-style picnic and barbecue foods.

Ingredients and preparation

Mustard is made by combining mustard seeds with liquids such as water, vinegar, lemon juice, or wine, then adding salt and sometimes spices. The seeds may be whole, cracked, ground, or bruised, producing products ranging from smooth paste to coarse sauce.

Varieties

Common mustard plants include white or yellow mustard, brown or Indian mustard, and black mustard. Prepared mustard can vary widely in colour, texture, and heat depending on the seed mix and recipe.

Culinary use

Mustard is used as a table condiment and as an ingredient in dressings, sauces, marinades, and soups. It is especially common with meats, cheeses, sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs.

History and etymology

Mustard is one of Europe’s oldest condiments, with origins in ancient use of ground seeds mixed with grape must. The name is commonly traced to the Latin *mustum ardens*, referring to its hot, burning quality.