Definition of Prepared Mustard
The term "prepared mustard" is often used in cookbooks and recipes, but not everyone is familiar with its meaning. The definition of prepared mustard is simply ground mustard seed that has been mixed with other ingredients. This is the mustard that is commonly bought in a yellow jar or squeeze bottle and used as a table condiment to add flavor to sandwiches, hot dogs and hamburgers.
Features
Prepared mustard is produced when the tiny seeds of the mustard plant are ground and combined with liquids such as vinegar, wine, or water and seasonings such as turmeric, horseradish and salt. Prepared mustard is bright yellow to yellow-brown in color, with a sharp, peppery flavor. French's mustard is a popular brand and is sometimes referred to as ballpark mustard.
History
Mustard was first used as a medicine, rather than a condiment. The ancient Greeks applied mustard to the skin for such ailments as scorpion stings and toothaches. The Romans made the first prepared mustard by mixing the ground seeds with wine; they carried the seeds into Gaul (modern France), where mustard making became a popular and lucrative pastime for French monks. Prepared mustard became common throughout France and spread to the rest of Europe during the Middle Ages.
Types
There are many types of prepared mustard. Yellow mustard is the most common, with the mildest flavor. It is sometimes referred to as regular mustard or table mustard, and it is made from yellow or white mustard seeds. Dijon mustard is made from brown, or Oriental, mustard seeds and white wine. Chinese mustard is very strong because the only other ingredient, besides ground mustard seed, is water. Wholegrain mustard contains whole mustard seeds. Other types of prepared mustard are made with honey, brown sugar, chili peppers or whiskey.
Uses
In the United States, prepared mustard is a common ingredient found in potato salad, deviled eggs, salad dressings, barbecue sauce and marinades. It can add a zing to bratwurst, hot dogs, other meats, pretzels and hoagie sandwiches. Many recipes call for prepared mustard to add flavor to sauces, casseroles and curries. While mustard has very little nutritional value, it does inhibit the growth of molds, yeasts and bacteria, making it useful as a preservative.
Recipe
You can easily make prepared mustard at home. Grind mustard seeds in a blender, food processor or spice grinder, or buy preground mustard. Combine 1 c. ground mustard seeds with 6 tbsp. water and 6 tbsp. vinegar. Add 1 tsp. sugar or honey, 1/4 tsp. turmeric and salt to taste. Place in a tightly sealed nonaluminum container. Do not refrigerate this mixture. This homemade mustard will become mellower as it ages, so you may want to let it sit for a month or two before using it.
Tags: mustard seeds, prepared mustard, ground mustard, mustard made, Definition Prepared