Mustard is a versatile condiment that comes in many forms, including mustard powder and prepared mustard.
Both are made from mustard seeds, but they have some key differences in how they are produced, their flavor and texture, and how they are used in cooking.
How Is Mustard Powder Made?
Mustard powder starts with mustard seeds, most commonly yellow or white mustard seeds, which are the mildest in flavor. The seeds are harvested and then dried and ground into a very fine powder. This powder is pure ground mustard seed, without any additional ingredients.
The powder is usually yellow or yellow-brown in color. When it is mixed with water, an enzymatic reaction occurs that brings out the pungency and heat of the mustard. The finer the powder is ground, the faster this reaction happens. Coarsely ground mustard powder takes longer to release its heat.
Key takeaway: Mustard powder is made by finely grinding dried mustard seeds into a powder. It does not contain any other ingredients.
How Is Prepared Mustard Made?
Prepared mustard starts with ground mustard seeds as well, but additional ingredients are added to create the smooth, condiment-style mustard we are familiar with.
The three main types of prepared mustard are:
- Yellow mustard - The most common prepared mustard. Made from mild yellow mustard seed, vinegar, and turmeric for color. Known for its mild flavor.
- Dijon mustard - Originated in Dijon, France. Made from brown mustard seeds and white wine, giving it a tangy flavor.
- Whole grain mustard - Contains whole, cracked, or coarsely ground mustard seeds that add texture. Often includes wine or beer for flavor.
In addition to ground mustard seeds, prepared mustards contain liquids like vinegar, wine, or water to create the smooth texture. Spices, salt, sugar, or honey may be added as well.
The ingredients and preparation method influence the flavor and spiciness of the final mustard product.
Key takeaway: Prepared mustard contains ground mustard seeds plus additional ingredients like vinegar, liquids, spices, and sweeteners that influence the texture and flavor.
How Do You Use Mustard Powder vs. Prepared Mustard?
Due to the differences in their texture and composition, mustard powder and prepared mustard are used slightly differently in recipes:
Using Mustard Powder
- Add to dry rubs and spice blends
- Mix into marinades, sauces, and vinaigrettes
- Sprinkle over meats before roasting or grilling
- Mix with water or vinegar to bloom before using
- Add to recipes without liquid for browning or charring
Because it has a pure, concentrated flavor, only a small amount of mustard powder is needed in recipes. Start with 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon.
Key takeaway: Mustard powder is often used in dry rubs, spice blends, marinades, and other recipes without much liquid. It has an intense flavor so only a small amount is needed.
Using Prepared Mustard
- Spread on sandwiches and burgers
- Mix into salad dressings, marinades, and sauces
- Fold into cheesy dips and cheese spreads
- Use as a topping for grilled or roasted meats
- Mix with breadcrumbs for coating fried foods
- Stir into soups, stews, and pot pies
Since prepared mustard already has a smooth, condiment-like texture, it can be used as-is in recipes without extra mixing or hydrating required.
Key takeaway: Prepared mustard can be used directly in recipes without any prep needed. It works well in dressings, dips, as a sandwich spread, or as a topping.
Can You Substitute One for the Other?
In a pinch, mustard powder and prepared mustard can be swapped in recipes, but a bit of adjustment is needed to account for differences in their texture and flavor concentration.
To substitute prepared mustard for dry mustard powder, use:
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder = 1 tablespoon prepared mustard
Since prepared mustard already contains liquid, you may need to reduce other liquids in the recipe slightly.
To substitute dry mustard for prepared mustard, use:
- 1 tablespoon prepared mustard = 1 teaspoon mustard powder + 1 teaspoon liquid (water, vinegar, etc.)
Make a smooth paste with the mustard powder and liquid before adding it to the recipe. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the mustard flavor to fully develop.
Key takeaway: Mustard powder and prepared mustard can be substituted for one another by adjusting the ratios and liquids in the recipe.
What's Better for Cooking and Baking: Mustard Powder or Prepared Mustard?
Whether mustard powder or prepared mustard is better for cooking depends on the recipe and your personal taste preferences.
Mustard powder pros:
- Adds pure, concentrated mustard flavor
- Easy to incorporate into dry rubs and spice blends
- Long shelf life and easy to keep on hand
Prepared mustard pros:
- Already has smooth, spreadable texture
- Convenient to use directly in recipes without prep
- Versatile flavor options like Dijon, honey mustard, etc.
For baking, prepared mustard is more commonly used to add moisture and bind ingredients together. Mustard powder can work in some baked goods, but may lead to a gritty texture.
Try both mustard powder and prepared mustard in your recipes to see which you prefer! The pure heat of mustard powder or the smoother, diluted flavor of prepared mustard may work better depending on the dish.
Key takeaway: Mustard powder is great for bold mustard flavor, especially in dry rubs. Prepared mustard is convenient to use directly in recipes. For baking, prepared mustard is better in most cases.
FAQs
Is mustard powder the same as dry mustard?
Yes, mustard powder and dry mustard are just two names for the same ingredient - made by grinding mustard seeds into a fine powder.
Is ground mustard the same as mustard powder?
They are very similar. Ground mustard is also made from ground mustard seeds. The terms are sometimes used interchangeably, but ground mustard may have a slightly coarser texture than powdered mustard.
Does mustard powder go bad?
Like other dried spices and herbs, mustard powder can lose potency over time but does not spoil easily. Stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, it can last several years. For the best flavor, try to use within 1-2 years.
Can you make mustard with mustard powder?
Yes, you can make DIY prepared mustard using mustard powder. Simply mix the powder with water, vinegar, or another liquid to form a paste. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop. You can add other ingredients like sugar, spices, salt, etc. to taste.
What's the difference between yellow and brown mustard seeds?
Yellow (or white) mustard seeds are larger and milder in flavor. Brown mustard seeds are smaller and impart more heat and pungency. Different types of mustard seeds can be used singly or combined to make different styles of prepared mustard.
Conclusion
While mustard powder and prepared mustard both start from ground mustard seeds, their different production methods and ingredient additions result in products with distinct textures, flavors, and ideal uses.
Mustard powder is pure and excellent for bold flavor in dry rubs and spice blends. Prepared mustard is pre-mixed with liquids for a convenient condiment and binder. With some simple ratio adjustments, the two types of mustard can be substituted in recipes.