Mustard has been one of the most grown and used spices in the world for ages. Mustard Plant is a member of the genus Brassica and Sinapis, which have been found in Stone Age settlements. This plant is said to originate from Egypt. The early civilization of Egypt used mustard seeds whole as spices, while Greeks used mustard as medicine and spices. Although it’s believed that Ancient Egypt discovered the plant, Romans were the first to use its seed as a condiment. Romans used to mix its seed with grape juice, called “mustum arden”. Later it was called “Must Ard”.
In modern times, people often use it as a condiment, as a meat binder, and as a home remedy for some illnesses. It has three primary types used to make a variety of mustards that we use today, which are:
- White mustard seeds or Sinapis alba
- Brown mustard (Indian mustard) or Brassica juncea
- Black mustard or Brassica nigra
Mustard seed has a strong, pungent odor and is bitter to taste. It can be dried or ground. Either way, both are often mixed with water, vinegar, juices, acids, wine, or other liquids to form a paste or used in cooking.
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Is Dry Mustard the same as Ground Mustard?
Unlike any other spices and condiments, you see in the store, you cannot easily tell the difference between one mustard to another. Different terms and types could refer to the same product, just like ground mustard and dry mustard. Most people would say that ground mustard is the same as dry mustard. Sometimes, it is also called powdered mustard. Ground Mustard or powdered mustard is mustard seeds that are ground and sifted. The organic form of ground mustard is either black, dark brown, or white powder, depending on the seed color. It is the main ingredient of prepared mustard that we usually buy in the grocery stores.
Is there any difference between Dry Mustard and Ground Mustard?
Most of the time, ground mustard is referred to as dry mustard. But it differs in some ways. Ground mustard is just mustard seeds that are ground up and sifted. There is no added ingredient to it, which makes it “pure” mustard. Because it is pure, it is as potent and as pungent as the whole mustard s Soaking in water will bring out its strong flavor. Ground mustard is always dry and always pure. It is the main ingredient of the spreadable mustard that we find in stores.
On the other hand, dry mustard doesn’t need to be pure as it might be added with other spices such as turmeric, salt, pepper, and any other dry seasonings. However, even though it’s mixed with other spices, it is always dry as pure mustard. They can also come in different textures, such as coarsely ground, cracked, or whole grain mustard.
What are the Benefits of Dry or Ground Mustard?
Mustard is one of the most popular condiments because of its distinct and strong flavor. Usually, we put it in hotdogs, salads, sandwiches, and burgers. Not only does it add flavor to our food, but it also has health benefits to our bodies. Mustard is rich in protein, fiber, vitamin C, and B-complex vitamins. Here are some of the benefits of mustard to our body:
- Prevents cancer– Mustard seeds are rich in phytonutrients, such as glucosinolates (a sugar-derived compound) which protect us from cancers
- Good for the heart– yellow mustard is rich in Omega-3 that prevents high blood pressure, controls bad cholesterol, and prevents metabolic disease such as diabetes.
- Good antioxidant- it contains cysteine, which protects our body from free radicals that damage our DNA.
- Soothes cough and colds– mustard oil or paste used to apply on the chest to decongest the nasal cavity.
- Strengthens bones and teeth– mustard is rich in minerals such as calcium which is vital to our bones and teeth, thus, preventing osteoporosis and arthritis.
- Helps in metabolism– the magnesium and phosphorus content of mustard aids most of the biochemical processes of our body, like protein, carbohydrates synthesis
- Relieves pain– yellow mustard oil helps to have quick relief from pain
- Oral care– mustard oil is used as a home remedy to get rid of bad breath.
- Fights infection– Mustard oil is a good antibacterial and antifungal properties
What is dry mustard used for?
Dry mustard is the main ingredient to prepare mustards and spices that we see in the grocery stores. Dry mustard is as strong as the whole mustard. Essentially, they mix it with water, flavor enhancers such as garlic and pickle juice, oil, wine, thyme, seasonings, alcohol, or acid. Some use it to make Colman’s mustard, tangy mustard vinaigrette, and mustard sauce. Also, some use dry mustard to make barbeque mustard rub for chicken and meat, salad dressings, soups, mac & cheese sauce, and many more.
