Mustard seeds: composition, recipe and uses in cooking

Where does the mustard seed come from ?

The mustard seed comes from various plants of the genus Brassica "and" Sinapis, which belong to the Brassicaceae family, also known as the crucifer family. These plants, generally small and capable of reaching a few meters in height, are distinguished by their yellow flowers. They can grow in various climates but prefer cooler temperatures.

Mustard seeds are round and very small, not exceeding 2mm in diameter. Regarding the different varieties of mustard, there are 3 types:

Yellow mustardSinapis alba Also called white mustard. This variety produces seeds that are light yellow to beige in color. Its flavor is less pungent than other types of mustard and it is often used to prepare mild American mustard.

Brown mustardBrassica juncea The seeds of this type are dark brown in color and have a spicier flavor than yellow mustard. They are used in Indian cuisine and to prepare Dijon mustard.

Black mustardBrassica nigra The black mustard seed is the spiciest of the mustards. It is used in Indian cuisine and for making strong mustards in Europe.

These three varieties of mustard are used both as a spice and as a preservative in many cuisines around the world. When the seeds are crushed, they release oil and a characteristic pungent flavor, which is ideal for preparing condiments such as mustard paste or sauce.

Homemade Mustard Recipe

Here is a simple and easy recipe to make your own mustard at home:

Ingredients:

• 100 g of seeds of mustard (mix of yellow and brown seeds for added complexity)
• 120 ml of apple cider vinegar flavored with Mango, ", or to the" blueberry "or to the" Raspberry
• 100 ml of water
• 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• Spices of your choiceturmeric, garlic powder, pepper, paprika, etc.)
  
  
  
  
  
  

Instructions:

1. Regarding the preparation of seeds: If you prefer a milder mustard, soak the seeds in the vinegar and water mixture overnight. This will help to soften the seeds and reduce their spiciness. If you prefer a stronger mustard, you can reduce the soaking time or even skip this step entirely.
2. Place the soaked mustard seeds (along with the soaking liquid) into a blender, add the other ingredients, and blend until you achieve the desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother mustard, continue blending for a longer time, and for a more rustic, old-fashioned mustard, blend for a shorter time.
3. Taste your mustard and adjust the salt, honey/sugar, or spices according to your personal preferences.
4. Transfer the mustard into a glass jar and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 48 hours before using it. This resting period will allow the flavors to fully develop.
5. Your homemade mustard can be stored in the refrigerator for several months.

This homemade mustard will be perfect for accompanying your dishes, dressings, or as a base for other sauces.

Composition of mustard seeds

Here is what mustard seeds contain:

• Nutrients: the nutritional detail of mustard seeds (B-group vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein) is given in the composition tables (Ciqual). Mustard seeds have their rightful place on the menu of a balanced diet!
  

• Sinigrin: Mustard seeds contain Sinigrin, a specific glucosinolate present in the seeds, particularly concentrated in the black and brown varieties. It is transformed into allyl isothiocyanates during chewing or digestion.

• Pungent flavor: their pungent flavor enlivens raw and simmered dishes.

Note: Mustard seeds should be consumed in moderation and without excess, as they are very potent and can irritate the digestive tract or skin. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating mustard seeds into your diet for regular consumption, especially if you have specific health concerns.

Germination of mustard seeds

The germination of mustard seeds is a simple and easy process that you can carry out in the comfort of your home, especially if you use 'Easygreen Light "or the"Easygreen Sol. . Sprouted mustard seeds have a milder taste than the dry seed and are eaten raw in salads or sandwiches.

To germinate your mustard seeds with the autonomous sprouter Easygreen Sol, follow these steps:

• Prepare the seeds and spread them in a thin layer on the germination tray.
  

• Add clear and filtered water to the tank. You can add a small amount ofsea water to taste.

• Set the timer by choosing the appropriate cap according to the desired watering frequency.

• Close the lid of the sprouter. The system will take care of regularly watering the seeds.

• Come back in 3 days to harvest your sprouts.

• Sprouted seeds can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

This sprouter allows for the germination of all types of seeds without supervision, making it ideal for producing sprouted seeds continuously.

To germinate mustard seeds with the automatic sprouter Easygreen Light, follow the steps below:

• Place the sprouter on a stable surface and plug it into an electrical outlet.

• Evenly distribute the mustard seeds on the tray of the sprouter.

• Program the system to automate the watering and aeration of mustard seeds, which includes between 5 to 8 misting cycles daily, with a daily water consumption between 2 and 3 liters.

• Regularly check the water level to maintain consistent humidity.

• Mustard seeds generally germinate in a few days. Once they are ready, you can harvest them and use them fresh.

How to use mustard seeds in cooking ?

The mustard seeds are extremely versatile in the kitchen, bringing a tangy note and depth of flavor to various culinary preparations. For example, you can:

• Use mustard powder, obtained from ground mustard seeds, as a spice in various preparations such as marinades or vegetable dishes to give them a spicy flavor and even help tenderize the roots of vegetables.
  
  
• Use mustard seeds in condiments by grinding them and mixing them with vinegar, salt, and other spices to create homemade mustard.
  
  
• Sprinkle sprouted or lightly toasted mustard seeds on your salads to add crunch and a tangy flavor.
  
  
• Sprinkle mustard seeds on roasted or sautéed vegetables to enhance their flavor.

Mustard seeds are also a traditional addition in Indian pickles, pickled cucumbers, and other types of preserves, as they possess natural preservative properties. They also have the ability to add depth and spiciness to preserved vegetables, thereby enriching their taste and texture.

Conclusion

The mustard seeds are thus a versatile ingredient. Whether for their ability to enhance the flavor of various dishes or their ease of use in diverse recipes (even the most complex ones), they appeal to any cooking enthusiast. These small seeds add a depth and intensity of flavor that can transform an ordinary recipe into a memorable dish.. Using mustard seeds in cooking can expand your culinary skills and add variety to your meals.