Spice Spotlight: Mustard Seeds


Upon hearing the word 'mustard', the first thought that may come to mind is that bright yellow paste trailed on many comfort foods. Before it has become the popular condiment that people have come to know and love, however, it starts out as something a bit more humble: the mustard seed.

Mustard seeds come from pods that are produced by a flowering plant that can grow up to 6½ feet tall. Today they are commonly grown in several countries: Canada, Hungary, U.S, India, and Britain. It is related to other great veggies such as collards, Brussel sprouts, and cabbages. These are all part of the Brassica family. Out of the 40 different species of mustard, only three types are typically used: Black, Brown, and White mustard. Each of these having different roots as mentioned by Dr. Mercola on his website:

  • Black mustard (Brassica nigra): This plant produces black mustard seeds and are revered in the Middle East and Asia Minor, where they are originally from.
  • Brown mustard (Brassica juncea): From its roots in the Himalayas, the seeds of brown mustard are now popularly used by Chinese restaurants in North America.Mustard greens usually comes from this variety of mustard.
  • White mustard (Sinapis alba): Despite its name, this mustard plant, which originated from the Mediterranean, actually bears tan-colored seeds that are mixed with dye to produce yellow mustard.  [1,2]


Mustard has a deep and fascinating history. It has been said by historians that the Europeans had mustard long before black pepper and it is the most common spice used today.
Even in the past, it was popular as condiment, a spice, and medicine. The Greeks and Romans used to prepare it fresh by grinding the seeds and adding a liquid to create a paste. This is very close to modern mustard,however, during the 1770's is when it became more of the mustard that we are used to today. This is the time when Maurice Grey and Antoine Poupon created the Grey Poupon Dijon Mustard brand. [3]

Health Benefits


Now that we know a bit about Mustard's background, let's see how it can benefit us.

Mustard seeds contains an excellent array of B-complex vitamins that are responsible for many of our body's functions such as the nervous system and regulation of the metabolism. Other vitamins found in this spice are vitamins A, C ,and E.

 Another wonderful quality of mustard seeds is its source of minerals. One of the most abundant is selenium. About 1 tablespoon of the seeds contains about 21% Daily value of selenium[4]. This mineral can help conditions such as asthma, Arthritis, lower the risk of certain cancers, and contains anti-inflammatory effects. [5,6] Magnesium, Iron, and Manganese are also found in favorable amounts in mustard seeds.

Adding these seeds to your diet can be heart healthy, as they contain omega-3 fatty acids. This can protect you against unsought heart diseases by lowering your blood pressure, reducing triglycerides, and slow the development of plaque in the arteries.


How to Use & Store


You can purchase mustard in oil, seed, or powder form. The essential oil is very potent and spicy ingredient, so a little goes a long way (always purchase food grade mustard oil that is safe for cooking). It can also be a used as on the skin. Best stored in the refrigerator to prevent it from going rancid.

You should be able to find the seeds at your local markets. One of the best ways to unlock the flavors when cooking with the seeds is by toasting them in a heated skillet before adding your other ingredients. Mustard seeds should be stored in an airtight container and should be used within one year. Powdered mustard should be used within six months.



Disclaimers

  • All product reviews are based on my experiences. Please be advised that everyone may not have the same experience. I am not affiliated with any product or marketing unless otherwise noted. Please check with manufacture disclaimers prior to use of any product.
  • All advice, information, and remedies should be taken into severe consideration. Please contact your health practitioner or holistic practitioner if you are struggling with a disease or currently taking any form of medication, pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • These statements-unless otherwise noted- have not been evaluated by the FDA 

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