Exploring the Different Types of Mustard
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Mustard is so much more than the bright yellow topping you drizzle on hot dogs — it’s a bold flavor booster. There’s an entire spectrum of tangy, spicy, and sweet varieties to explore. From the bold bite of Dijon to the mellow sweetness of honey mustard, each type brings its own distinctive flair.
Ready to find your new favorite? The right mustard can elevate anything from grilled sausages to vinaigrettes and sandwiches.
What is mustard?
Mustard refers to both a plant and a condiment made from its seeds. It is a member of the Brassicaceae family, which includes cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower.
As for the nutritional benefits, mustard seeds are rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and minerals like calcium and magnesium. Mustard greens (the leaves) are also high in vitamins A, C, and K. In culinary, mustard is a versatile ingredient used in sauces, dressings, marinades, and as a seasoning for meats and vegetables.
At its core, mustard is made from the seeds of the mustard plant, typically mixed with water, vinegar, or wine to create a flavorful paste. Depending on the type of seed used and how finely it’s ground, mustard can vary in texture and flavor, from mild to intense. Whether you like your mustard smooth or grainy, tangy or spicy, there are may types of mustard for every preference.
Types of Mustard
Mustard comes in a wide array of varieties, each with its flavor profile, texture, and uses. This condiment offers something for everyone: Mild to fiery, smooth to grainy.
1. Yellow Mustard
One of the types of mustard is Yellow mustard, often called American mustard, which is a staple in American cuisine, especially in fast food and casual dining. Though it’s most closely linked to American food, yellow mustard is enjoyed in many different ways around the world.
Nutritional Benefits
- Low in Calories: A tablespoon typically contains about 5-10 calories.
- Cholesterol-Free: It’s a heart-healthy condiment option.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Mustard seeds and turmeric contain beneficial compounds like curcumin, known for anti-inflammatory properties.
Health Considerations:
Yellow mustard (per 1 tbsp) contains 5 calories per serving, 0g of fat, 1g of carbs, 0g of protein, and 55mg of sodium.
- Mustard seeds may stimulate digestion by increasing saliva and gastric juice production.
- While low in calories, some commercial brands may have higher sodium levels, so check labels if you’re monitoring salt intake.
It’s commonly used as a topping for hot dogs, hamburgers, sandwiches, and pretzels. Used in salad dressings, marinades, barbecue sauces, deviled egg, and potato salads. Adds a tangy kick to recipes without overpowering other ingredients.
2. Honey Mustard
Honey mustard is a beloved condiment that perfectly balances mustard’s tangy sharpness with the smooth sweetness of honey. Typically smooth in texture, it sometimes features a slight graininess when whole mustard seeds are included.
It’s smooth and golden, offering a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. It is often used as a dipping sauce, salad dressing, or glaze for meats like chicken tenders, pork, or fish.
Variations of Honey Mustard:
- Spicy Honey Mustard: Some versions incorporate chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick, balancing the sweetness of honey with heat.
- Creamy Honey Mustard: A creamier version may include mayonnaise or yogurt to give the sauce a smoother texture, often used for dressings or as a spread.
- Low-Sugar Honey Mustard: For those watching their sugar intake, there are low-sugar or sugar-free honey mustard options made with sugar substitutes or lower amounts of honey.
Health Considerations:
Honey mustard (per 1 tbsp) contains about 60 calories per serving, 3g of fat, 10g of carbs, 0g of protein, and 90mg of sodium.
While honey mustard can add a delightful flavor to dishes, its nutritional value depends on the ingredients used:
- Honey mustard tends to be higher in sugar due to the honey, so portion control is important for those monitoring their sugar intake.
- Honey, especially raw or organic honey, contains antioxidants that can provide some health benefits.
“I use honey mustard the most because I find it gives the best blend of sweet and savory tastes. We love adding it to chicken dishes, marinades, and even mixed with balsamic vinegar for salad dressings.”
— Shelby, Fit as a Mama Bear
3. Spicy Brown Mustard
If you like your mustard with some heat, this one of the types of mustard is perfect for you. Spicy brown mustard is the way to go. Spicy brown mustard is known for its sharp, spicy flavor. It has a more intense heat compared to yellow mustard, but it’s less sweet. It combines tangy acidity with a bold, spicy kick. Spicy brown mustard has a coarser texture than yellow mustard, with visible ground mustard seeds, making it chunkier.
Health Considerations:
Spicy brown mustard (per 1 tbsp) has 5 calories, 0.4g carbohydrates, 0.3g protein, 0.2g fat, and 56mg sodium per serving.
- Like most mustards, spicy brown mustard is low in calories, making it a good option for those watching their calorie intake.
- Spicy brown mustard typically doesn’t contain added sugar (unlike some yellow mustards), making it a healthier choice for those monitoring sugar intake.
- It can be relatively high in sodium, so it’s important to consume it in moderation, especially for individuals on a low-sodium diet.
It is often used in deli sandwiches and burgers and as an accompaniment to meats like sausages, hot dogs, and roast beef. Spicy brown mustard also works well in marinades and sauces.
4. Dijon Mustard
Hailing from Dijon, France, this most-known on the types of mustard is popular because of its smooth texture and intricate flavor profile. The secret to Dijon’s distinctive taste lies in adding white wine to the finely ground mustard seeds.
Dijon mustard is a type of mustard that originated in the Dijon region of France and is popular because of its smooth texture and intricate flavor profile. Dijon mustard is sharp and tangy with a subtle heat. Unlike yellow mustard, which is sweet and mild, Dijon mustard has a more sophisticated, slightly spicy flavor with a balance of acidity. It has a smooth, creamy texture due to the fine grinding of the mustard seeds. It’s more refined and less coarse than spicy brown or yellow mustard.
Health Considerations:
Dijon mustard (per 1 tbsp) provides 15 calories, 0.9g carbohydrates, 0.3g protein, 0.8g fat, and 120mg sodium per tablespoon.
- Dijon mustard, like many mustard varieties, contains a small but notable amount of selenium, an essential mineral that plays a role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. It also supports the immune system, and thyroid function, and may contribute to reducing inflammation.
- Has a tangy, vinegary taste due to the use of wine or vinegar. While this can add flavor to dishes, it may not be suitable for people with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux.
- Most are low in sugar, which is a benefit for people trying to avoid excess sugar in their diet. Furthermore, many Dijon mustard varieties are free from artificial preservatives, coloring agents, or flavorings, making it a cleaner alternative to other condiments.
Dijon mustard has a sharp, tangy flavor and a subtle spicy kick. It’s a key ingredient in many French dishes and the backbone of countless vinaigrettes, sauces, and marinades. Dijon also works well as a sandwich spread or a condiment for roasted meats.
5. Whole Grain Mustard
Whole grain mustard has a sharp, tangy flavor with mild to moderate spiciness, depending on the type of mustard seeds used. Among the various types of mustard, it has a less intense heat compared to spicy brown mustard but more flavor complexity. The texture is coarse with visible mustard seeds, giving it a grainy appearance and a crunchy bite, which sets it apart from smooth mustard varieties.
Health Considerations:
Whole grain mustard contains 15 calories, 0g fat, 1g carbohydrates, 0g protein, and 60mg sodium per serving.
- Mustard seeds contain compounds like glucosinolates and selenium, which have antioxidant properties and may help fight inflammation in the body.
- Whole grain mustard can be relatively high in sodium, so it’s best consumed in moderation, especially for those monitoring their salt intake.
- Mustard seeds provide fiber, which can support digestion and contribute to gut health.
The flavor is robust and slightly spicy, adding visual interest and texture to dishes. It is an excellent condiment for charcuterie boards since it complements the flavors of strong cheeses and cured meats.
“Stone ground mustard is my go-to for salad dressings and homemade vinaigrettes. It has a more earthy taste than regular Dijon mustard and works so well with leafy greens and veggies.”
— Casey Rooney, Get On My Salad Plate
6. Chinese Hot Mustard
Chinese hot mustard lives up to its name with a fiery kick and is usually used in Chinese cuisine. It’s one of the types of mustard made from brown or black mustard seeds with more heat than yellow seeds. It has a sharp, spicy flavor that can provide a quick, intense heat.
This mustard has a sharp, tangy flavor with a sudden burst of heat. The spice comes from the release of isothiocyanate compounds when the mustard powder comes into contact with liquid, which gives it its characteristic pungency. It has a stronger heat than most Western mustard varieties, which typically mellow out over time. The texture is smooth and paste-like, often used as a dipping sauce or condiment for a variety of dishes.
Health Considerations:
This Chinese hot mustard contains 5 calories, 0g fat, 1g carbohydrates, 0g protein, and 55mg sodium per serving.
- Chinese hot mustard is very low in calories, making it a great condiment for those looking to keep their calorie intake in check.
- Unlike some Western mustard varieties or commercial condiments, Chinese hot mustard typically does not contain added sugars, which makes it a healthier option.
- The heat in Chinese hot mustard comes from the release of volatile oils, which can irritate sensitive stomachs, so it should be consumed in moderation by those who are sensitive to spicy foods.
The heat is immediate and can be quite intense, often compared to the sensation of wasabi or horseradish, so use it sparingly. It adds a powerful punch to dipping sauces and marinades and goes well with dumplings or egg rolls.
7. English Mustard
English mustard is one of the types of mustard known for its bright yellow color and fiery heat. It’s a staple condiment in British cuisine and is associated with brands like Colman’s, which has made mustard since 1814. In British cuisine, it’s served with roast beef or ham.
English mustard is known for its bold, sharp, and pungent heat. It has a much stronger kick compared to milder varieties like yellow mustard, with an immediate burst of spice that can be quite intense. It has a more direct heat without much sweetness. The texture of English mustard can vary from smooth to slightly coarse, depending on how finely the mustard seeds are ground. It is typically served as a paste or in a squeeze bottle.
Health Considerations:
English mustard contains 5 calories, 0g fat, 1g carbs, 0g protein, and 55mg sodium per serving.
- The spiciness of English mustard can help stimulate the production of digestive juices, aiding digestion and helping break down food more efficiently.
- The compounds in mustard seeds may offer anti-inflammatory benefits, which could be useful for people with conditions like arthritis.
- While it is low in calories, English mustard can be high in sodium, so it’s important to use it in moderation, particularly for individuals on a low-sodium diet.
- Due to its strong heat, English mustard may irritate sensitive stomachs, particularly in individuals with acid reflux or other digestive issues.
In British cuisine, it is frequently served alongside meat pies, pasties, and sausage rolls for added spice and flavor. Condiment with roast meats, including roast beef, sausages, and lamb. It provides a sharp contrast to the richness of the meat.
8. German Mustard
German mustard is one of the types of mustard popular in Germany, often used to complement sausages, pretzels, and meats. It is known for its wide range of flavors, from mild to spicy, depending on the region. At the heart of this condiment family is a smooth, spicy brown mustard with a hint of sweetness, blending both yellow and brown mustard seeds.
German mustard ranges from mild and sweet to bold and spicy. The addition of honey or sugar can provide a sweet contrast to the sharpness of the mustard, while the vinegar gives it a tangy punch. The texture can vary. Some varieties are smooth, while others are grainy with visible mustard seeds for added crunch.
Health Considerations:
German mustard has 10 calories, 0g fat, 2g carbs, 0g protein, and 100mg sodium per serving.
- German mustard typically doesn’t contain added sugars in excessive amounts (though some varieties may contain a small amount of honey or sugar), making it a healthier choice compared to other condiments.
- Also, German mustard can contain a significant amount of sodium, so those on a low-sodium diet should use it in moderation.
- The spiciness of German mustard can irritate individuals with sensitive stomachs or those prone to acid reflux.
Some German mustards incorporate horseradish for those who want an extra kick, turning up the heat. Whether savoring a juicy bratwurst or a warm, salted pretzel, and meats German mustard is the perfect condiment.
9. Creole Mustard
Creole mustard is a flavorful and spicy mustard variety, often used in Southern and Cajun cooking. It is particularly popular in Louisiana cuisine, where it adds a unique blend of heat and tang to dishes.
Creole mustard is one of the types of mustard known for its sharp, spicy flavor with a strong mustardy tang. It has a noticeable heat, thanks to the use of brown mustard seeds and spices like cayenne pepper and paprika, along with a hint of sweetness from optional ingredients like honey. The mustard is typically grainy and coarse, offering a chunkier consistency than smoother mustards like Dijon. The ground mustard seeds provide a satisfying crunch, along with a robust, zesty flavor.
Health Considerations:
Creole mustard offers 15 calories, 0g fat, 3g carbs, 0g protein, and 150mg sodium per serving.
- The spices in Creole mustard, such as cayenne pepper, contain capsaicin, which can help boost metabolism and promote digestion.
- As with many mustards, Creole mustard can be relatively high in sodium. It’s important to use it in moderation if you’re monitoring your sodium intake.
- The heat from cayenne and other spices may cause discomfort for individuals sensitive to spicy foods or those with conditions like acid reflux.
In the kitchen, commonly used as a spread on traditional po’boy sandwiches or other types of sandwiches, often paired with meats like fried chicken or roast beef. It complements the seafood-rich dishes of Louisiana cuisine. It’s a key ingredient in many Cajun and Creole dishes, adding depth to gumbo, jambalaya, or crawfish boils. It also pairs well with fried catfish, shrimp, and other seafood.
10. Beer Mustard
Beer mustard is one of the types of mustard that incorporates beer as a key ingredient. This type of mustard combines the tanginess of mustard with the rich, malty flavors of beer, offering a distinctive taste that works well with a variety of dishes, especially those featuring sausages, meats, and pretzels. It’s often used in German and American cuisine and is known for its bold and slightly bitter flavor.
The mustard is typically tangy, with a balance of spicy mustard flavor and the rich, malty, or hoppy taste of beer. Depending on the type of beer used, it can range from slightly sweet to bitter, with a deep, savory flavor. The texture can vary from smooth to slightly grainy, depending on whether whole mustard seeds are used or if it’s finely ground. It’s typically thicker than Dijon mustard but not as coarse as some other grainy mustards.
Health Considerations:
Beer mustard provides 20 calories, 0g fat, 4g carbs, 0g protein, and 50mg sodium per serving.
- Beer contains some nutrients, like B vitamins and minerals, although these are present in small amounts in beer mustard. The beer used can also add unique compounds that may contribute to digestive health.
- While the alcohol in beer largely evaporates during the mustard-making process, a trace amount may remain. For most individuals, this is not a concern, but it’s something to keep in mind for those avoiding alcohol for health or personal reasons.
Beer mustard pairs well with sausages, bratwurst, hot dogs, and grilled meats, offering a tangy contrast. It’s a classic accompaniment to pretzels, especially in beer gardens, and works as a spread for sandwiches, burgers, or wraps. It adds zest to marinades, salad dressings, and tangy sauces for grilled dishes.
A Condiment for Every Occasion
Mustards come in a variety of flavors and textures, each offering a unique twist on the classic tangy condiment. Whether you’re a fan of the smooth and sharp Dijon, the fiery kick of spicy brown, or the crunchy punch of whole grain, mustard has something for every palate.
From burgers to hot dogs, sandwiches to marinades, it adds zest without the guilt. Packed with antioxidants and low in calories, mustard isn’t just a flavor booster – it’s a health-conscious choice, too. So, whether you’re going for the classic yellow or venturing into the bold world of beer and creole mustards, there’s no wrong way to spice up your meal!
Beyond yellow, mustard opens up a world of unique flavors, each adding a distinct kick to your favorite dishes.
For options like these, consider checking out the following:
