Mustard Seed

What Are Mustard Seeds?

Mustard seeds are the small, round seeds of the mustard plant. There are three main color types — yellow/white (mildest), brown, and black (sharpest) — and they are the base raw ingredient of mustard sauce.

When chewed whole, they first give a slightly nutty taste, and then chewing and contact with liquid releases a sharp bite; this quality is why they are preferred in pickles and marinades.

Nutritional Value of Mustard Seeds

100 grams of mustard seeds contains around 508 kcal of energy; they carry a moderate level of fat and high protein. Values vary by type and are approximate.

How Should Mustard Seeds Be Consumed?

Mustard seeds are used in moderate amounts as a spice addition to dishes and pickles, as part of a balanced diet.

This information is general; mustard seeds are a spice, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Mustard Seeds?

Good mustard seeds are firm-plump, uniform in color for their type (yellow, brown, or black), and free of absorbed moisture.

• Seeds should be firm and plump, not shriveled-hollow
• Color should be homogeneous for the type
• Should not have absorbed moisture or be stuck together

How to Store Mustard Seeds?

Mustard seeds can be stored for a very long time in a closed container in a dry, dark cupboard; being whole seeds, their aroma fades much more slowly than ground spices.

Using Mustard Seeds in the Kitchen

Mustard seeds are used most in pickle brine, in marinades, and fried in oil (tempering) in some Indian dishes; they can also be soaked and crushed to make homemade mustard sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are mustard seeds and ready-made mustard sauce the same thing?

No; mustard sauce is a processed product made by crushing mustard seeds with vinegar, water, and spices into a paste. The seed is the unprocessed raw form.

Why are mustard seeds used in pickling?

They provide both a slight sharpness and a visual-textural addition; they are also traditionally believed to contribute to the pickle's shelf life.

Are mustard seeds available in Turkey?

They can easily be found at spice shops and herbalists, and in the spice section of large supermarkets.