Mustard Seed

Mustard seed is a small but flavour-packed spice derived from plants of the Sinapis or Brassica genus. There are three main varieties, yellow (white) seeds with a mild taste, brown seeds with medium heat, and black seeds, the most pungent of all. In the kitchen they are used whole or ground. Whole seeds are added to marinades, pickling brines, curry blends, or toasted in oil as a base for Indian dishes. The ground version is the foundation of prepared mustard. The seeds contain an essential oil that is released only upon contact with liquid, producing their characteristic sharpness.