A Guide to Pairing Different Types of Mustard to Food and Drink

Mustard is a versatile condiment that can add flavor, texture, and spice to a variety of dishes. But not all mustards are created equal. Depending on the ingredients, preparation, and origin, mustards can have different tastes, colors, and aromas. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most common types of mustard and how to pair them with food and drink.

- Yellow mustard: This is the classic American mustard that you probably have in your fridge. It is made from ground yellow mustard seeds, vinegar, salt, and turmeric, which gives it its bright yellow color. Yellow mustard is mild and tangy and goes well with hot dogs, burgers, sandwiches, pretzels, and potato salad. You can also use it as a base for sauces and dressings. For drinks, yellow mustard pairs well with light beers, lemonades, and iced teas.

- Dijon mustard: This French mustard originated in the city of Dijon. It is made from brown or black mustard seeds, white wine vinegar, salt, and sometimes other spices. Dijon mustard is smooth and creamy, with a sharp and pungent flavor. It goes well with meats, cheeses, salads, soups, and sauces. You can also use it as a marinade or a glaze for roasts and grilled foods. For drinks, Dijon mustard pairs well with white wines, sparkling wines, and ciders.

- Whole grain mustard: This type of mustard contains whole or partially crushed mustard seeds, giving it a coarse and crunchy texture. It can be made from any type of mustard seeds, and often has other ingredients like honey, herbs or spices. Whole grain mustard is rich and robust, with a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. It goes well with sausages, ham, cheese boards, salads and sandwiches. You can also use it as a dip or a spread for breads and crackers. For drinks, whole grain mustard pairs well with red wines, dark beers and whiskies.

- Honey mustard: This is a type of mustard that combines mustard with honey, creating a sweet and savory balance. It can be made from any type of mustard, but usually uses yellow or Dijon mustard as a base. Honey mustard is smooth and glossy, with a mild and mellow flavor. It goes well with chicken, pork, salmon, vegetables and fruits. You can also use it as a dressing or a sauce for salads and wraps. For drinks, honey mustard pairs well with fruity wines, cocktails and mocktails.

- Hot mustard: This is a type of mustard with a high concentration of allyl isothiocyanate, a volatile compound responsible for the nasally heat mustard can have. It can be made from any type of mustard seeds, but usually uses brown or black mustard seeds as they have more heat. Hot mustard is thick and potent, with a strong and sinus-clearing flavor. It goes well with Asian dishes like dumplings, noodles, stir-fries and sushi. You can also use it as a condiment or a seasoning for meats and seafoods. For drinks, hot mustard pairs well with cold beers, iced teas and water.

- English mustard: This is a type of mustard that originated in England. It is made from finely ground yellow or brown mustard seeds, water or vinegar, salt and sometimes flour or sugar. English mustard is smooth and bright yellow with a very hot and intense flavor. It goes well with roast beef, lamb chops, pies and sausages. You can also use it as an ingredient for sauces like gravy or cheese sauce. For drinks, English mustard pairs well with ale beers or stout beers.

- German mustard: This type of mustard originated in Germany. It is made from coarsely ground yellow or brown mustard seeds, vinegar or wine, salt, sugar, and sometimes other spices like caraway or horseradish. German mustard is thick and dark yellow or brown with a sweet and sour or spicy flavor. It goes well with bratwurst, schnitzel, pretzels and sauerkraut. You can also use it as an accompaniment for bread or cheese. For drinks, German mustard pairs well with lager beers or Riesling wines.