If you’re a foodie or a cook, you know how important it is to have the right ingredients on hand. However, you may find yourself in a situation where you are missing a key ingredient for a recipe. One such ingredient that is commonly used in many dishes is Dijon Mustard. Whether it’s for a salad dressing or marinade, Dijon Mustard can add that desirable tangy and sharp flavor to your meal.
But what do you do if you don’t have any Dijon Mustard on hand? Fear not; I’ve got you covered! In this blog post, I’ll share 12 Dijon Mustard substitutes that will be equally tasty and easily available. So, keep reading to find the perfect Dijon mustard substitute for your recipe.
What Is the Flavor Profile of Dijon Mustard?
Let’s break down the flavor profile of Dijon mustard – it will help you understand the most appropriate Dijon mustard substitute for your dish. Dijon mustard offers a complex blend of tanginess, spice, and subtle sweetness, making it a versatile ingredient in various dishes. Therefore, choosing the best substitute for Dijon mustard can be tricky.
Dijon mustard is known for its tangy taste, which comes from the addition of white wine, vinegar or verjuice (the juice of unripe grapes) during the production process. This acidity brightens up dishes and adds a refreshing zing. While not overly hot, Dijon mustard provides a gentle spiciness that tickles the taste buds. This heat comes from the black or brown mustard seeds used in its preparation.
Apart from its tanginess and spice, Dijon mustard also offers a subtle sweetness. This sweetness helps balance out the acidity and heat, creating a harmonious flavor profile. Moreover, depending on the brand, some varieties of Dijon mustard feature additional layers of flavor, such as egg yolks, garlic onions, hints of herbs, other spices, or floral undertones.
Overall, Dijon mustard offers a well-rounded flavor profile that enhances a wide range of dishes, from sandwiches and salad dressings to marinades and sauces. Its versatility and intense flavor make it a favorite condiment in many kitchens around the world.
12 Appropriate Dijon Mustard Substitutes
Dijon mustard is a beloved condiment, lending tangy sweetness to dressings, marinades, and sauces. But what if you’ve run out? No need to panic! I understand that in some parts it is hard to find and buy Dijon mustard. That’s why I want to share these tasty substitutes you can easily find at most grocery stores or may be right at home. From yellow mustard to honey mustard to even wasabi for a spicy kick there are many and each brings its own flavor. So, read on to learn more about these delicious alternatives.
#1 Yellow Mustard
Whether it’s slathered on hot dogs at a baseball game or used to add zing to sandwiches at a backyard barbecue, yellow mustard sauce is a commonly used condiment in America. Moreover, it can be the excellent Dijon mustard replacement you are looking for! It is considered one of the best substitutes for Dijon mustard, because it shares a similar texture and consistency. The taste will be milder than Dijon mustard because yellow mustard is made from mustard powder instead of mustard seeds.
While the flavor profile may differ slightly, yellow mustard provides a comparable smoothness and spreadability, making it an excellent alternative in recipes where Dijon mustard is called for. Its mild tanginess and creamy texture can mimic the qualities of Dijon mustard, ensuring a satisfying result in your dishes. Whether used in salad dressings, marinades, or sandwiches, yellow mustard is a reliable stand-in when Dijon is unavailable. When substituting yellow mustard for Dijon mustard, a 1:1 ratio works perfectly. This means you can use 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard to replace 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard in your recipe.
#2 Stone Ground Mustard
Unlike other smoother Dijon mustard alternatives, stone ground mustard retains the intact mustard seeds, making it a coarser substitute for Dijon mustard. The distinctive texture of stone ground mustard seed provides a delightful crunch and bursts of flavor with each bite. So, if you are wondering what can I use instead of Dijon mustard: stone ground mustard can be a great substitute.
Stone ground mustard can be enjoyed with spicy food. Stone ground mustard is mild because of many uncrushed brown mustard seeds due to which the mustard flavor and spice do not release into the sauce. Moreover, swapping stone-ground mustard for Dijon mustard can add a rustic touch to your dishes. However, the coarser texture may not suit all recipes. It’s perfect for hearty sauces, marinades, or dressings with chunkier ingredients. But for smooth textures, you might want to stick with Dijon or other alternatives. Use it in one to one ratio.
#3 Spicy Brown Mustard
Spicy brown mustard, also known as deli mustard, offers a bold and zesty flavor profile compared to the milder mustard varieties made from white mustard seeds. So, if you’re a fan of spicy foods, use it as a substitute for Dijon mustard at a 1:1 ratio. You’ll get that extra kick you crave. While the two are similar in nutrition, spicy brown mustard might pack a bit more sodium. So if you’re watching your sodium intake, spicy brown mustard might not be the best Dijon mustard substitute for you.
Swapping spicy brown mustard for Dijon mustard is a convenient solution when you’re out of Dijon. Since spicy brown mustard tends to be zestier and spicier, you might want to adjust the amount to suit your taste buds. It’s a great choice for meaty sandwiches, adding extra flavor and depth to your favorite deli meats. Adjust the ratio according to your desired level of spiciness and enjoy!
#4 Whole Grain Mustard
Substituting Dijon mustard with whole grain mustard can add a delightful twist to your dish. Whole-grain mustard and Dijon mustard share a similar taste profile, with the main difference in their texture. While Dijon mustard has a smooth and uniform texture, whole-grain mustard retains its coarse texture with visible whole mustard seeds.
In contrast to Dijon mustard, it has a milder flavor and a slightly nutty taste. It is recommended to use a 1:1 ratio when substituting Dijon mustard with whole-grain mustard. However, keep in mind that the coarser texture of whole-grain mustard may not work as seamlessly in recipes requiring a smooth consistency, such as dressings or sauces. Adjust the quantity to your taste preferences, and enjoy the unique flavor and texture that whole-grain mustard brings to your dish!
#5 Horseradish Sauce
If Dijon mustard isn’t on hand, horseradish sauce makes for a worthy substitute. Combining prepared horseradish, typically made from grated horseradish root, with mayonnaise, it shares a family resemblance with both wasabi and mustard. This connection gives horseradish sauce a similarly bold and pungent flavor profile, akin to Dijon mustard.
However, unlike Dijon, it has a thicker, creamy consistency due to the addition of cream, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Perfect as a flavorful accompaniment for fish, beef, and lamb dishes, horseradish sauce offers a unique twist to your culinary creations.
#6 Hot English Mustard
Are you up for a fiery and robust sauce? Hot English mustard is a much spicier mustard suace first prepared in England, hence the name English Mustard. It is a mixture prepared from ground mustard seeds or fine mustard powder, white vinegar and spices. It is loved by cooks and foodies for its ability to add a fiery kick to sandwiches, meats, and many recipes calling for a spicier twist.
There is a pungent wasabi or horseradish flavor that lends a spicy and tangy taste to English Mustard sauce. As compared to the mustard sauces with pale yellow color, the bright yellow color of English mustard’s signals its fiery nature. When using as a Dijon mustard substitute, tread lightly; a ratio of 1 teaspoon of Hot English Mustard to 1 tablespoon of Dijon ensures the heat doesn’t overwhelm, striking the perfect balance of bold flavors to your favorite recipes.
#7 Honey Mustard
Don’t let the spiciness of Hot English mustard scare you, there are other Dijon replacements on this list that aren’t as spicy – here is a sweet substitute for Dijon mustard! Honey mustard offers a sweeter twist on traditional Dijon mustard. Crafted by blending mustard with honey (which can be swapped with vegan honey or maple syrup), white wine vinegar, and various seasonings, it delivers a milder flavor profile.
However, it’s essential to note the significant difference in sweetness between the two. While honey mustard can be a Dijon substitute, the dish’s overall flavor may vary. The flavor is not as sharp as Dijon mustard (because it contains less vinegar), but you can still use it in many recipes. To balance this contrast, consider a ratio of 0.5 tablespoon of honey mustard to 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. This adjustment ensures a harmonious blend of flavors without an overwhelming amount of sweetness.
#8 Homemade Dijon Mustard
Here is my simple recipe, but if you want more detailed recipes, you can follow a standard recipe available online. To start, combine 1/2 cup of black mustard seeds and 1/2 cup of yellow mustard seeds in a bowl. Add 3/4 cup of white wine vinegar and 1/4 cup of water to the seeds, stirring to ensure they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the seeds to absorb the liquid and soften.
After the soaking period, transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Add 2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup for sweetness, 1 teaspoon of salt for seasoning, and a pinch of turmeric for color. Blend the ingredients until smooth, adjusting the consistency with additional water if needed. Please note: Allowing the homemade Dijon mustard substitute to rest in the fridge for 24 hours before use offers a chance for its fiery heat to mellow out. Using it immediately will result in a spicier flavor than if it’s refrigerated first.
You can find an alternative recipe in the following video:
How To Store Homemade Dijon Mustard
Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and flavor. Once prepared, transfer the mustard to a clean, airtight jar or container. Seal the Dijon mustard container tightly to minimize air exposure and prolong the mustard’s shelf life. Store the homemade Dijon mustard in the refrigerator to maintain its quality and prevent spoilage. The cool temperature of the fridge helps preserve the mustard’s flavor and consistency over time.
#9 Worcestershire Sauce
Worcestershire sauce is a fermented condiment made from a blend of vinegar, onion, molasses, and various seasonings, resulting in a tangy flavor resembling Dijon mustard. However, unlike the thick consistency of Dijon, Worcestershire sauce tends to be more liquid. If a recipe calls for the creamy texture of Dijon mustard, you can easily achieve it by combining Worcestershire sauce with mayonnaise or yogurt. This simple adjustment is particularly useful for recipes requiring sauces and marinades, allowing you to maintain both the desired flavor and texture.
#10 Vegan Yogurt or Sour Cream
While vegan yogurt or sour cream can add a tangy flavor similar to Dijon mustard sauce, they may not necessarily be the best substitutes in terms of flavor and texture. Add a little quantity of dry mustard powder made from ground mustard seeds if you have at home. It will add distinct sharpness and pungency to Dijon mustard sauce, creamy, and tangy vegan yogurt. That being said, if you’re looking for a vegan alternative, they can still work well in some recipes and can be a good substitute if you don’t have Dijon mustard sauce on hand.
#11 Tahini
Tahini can serve as a flavorful substitute for Dijon mustard sauce, but it will impart a significantly different taste and texture to your dish. While both tahini and Dijon mustard sauce offer a creamy consistency, tahini has a distinct nutty flavor derived from ground sesame seeds. Depending on the recipe, tahini can be used as a substitute for Dijon mustard sauce. Use it as a base for sauces, spreads, or dressings for a rich and indulgent alternative to Dijon. It is best to experiment with both ingredients to see which one works best for your particular recipe and personal taste preferences.
#12 Turmeric – Least Preferred Substitute for Dijon Mustard
Turmeric can be used as a Dijon mustard substitute, but it will impart a different flavor and color to your dish. While turmeric just like regular mustard offers a hint of spiciness, it lacks the distinct tangy flavor that Dijon mustard sauce provides. However, you can try mixing turmeric with Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to create a similar texture to Dijon mustard sauce. Turmeric is a great alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option, but it is clearly not a top choice to replace Dijon mustard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Mustard and Dijon Mustard Different?
Yes, mustard and Dijon mustard are different, although they both are made from the seeds of the mustard plant. The main differences lie in their flavor profiles, ingredients, and preparation methods. Traditional mustard typically contains yellow mustard seeds, vinegar, water, salt, and sometimes other flavorings or additives. Dijon mustard follows a similar recipe but specifically uses white wine or white vinegar instead of other types of vinegar, giving it its distinctive taste. While both mustard and Dijon mustard are made by grinding mustard seeds and mixing them with liquid, Dijon mustard follows a more refined and controlled production process.
Why Is Dijon Mustard So Popular?
Dijon mustard’s popularity can be attributed to its unique flavor, versatility, cultural significance, health benefits, global appeal, and compatibility with various dietary lifestyles. Originating from the city of Dijon in France, Dijon mustard carries a sense of tradition and authenticity that appeals to foodies seeking high-quality products. Another reason for its popularity is that mustard seeds, the primary ingredient in Dijon mustard, are rich in antioxidants and beneficial plant compounds. Additionally, Dijon mustard is often lower in calories and fat compared to other condiments like mayonnaise or ketchup.
Is Dijon Mustard Gluten-Free?
Dijon mustard, comprising mustard seeds, white wine or wine vinegar, and salt, maintains its gluten-free status. This aspect makes it an excellent choice for individuals with Celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or non-Celiac gluten sensitivity. It’s worth noting that while the core ingredients are gluten-free, consumers should always check the label for any added ingredients that might contain gluten or be processed in facilities that handle gluten-containing products to ensure complete safety.
Is Dijon Mustard Vegan?
Dijon mustard may not consistently adhere to vegan standards. On occasion, it substitutes white wine for vinegar. Some white wine producers use non-vegan filters, such as egg whites, fish bladder protein, or gelatin, during the fining process. To ensure vegan compatibility, look for specifically labeled vegan Dijon mustard options or opt for varieties without white wine.
Do All Mustard Sauces Contain Brown Mustard Seeds?
Not necessarily. While brown mustard seeds are commonly used in many mustard sauces, not all mustard sauces contain them. Mustard sauces can be made from various types of mustard seeds. Yellow mustard is made from yellow mustard seeds. Stone ground mustard sauce contains brown ground mustard seeds only. Some mustard sauces with less spicy flavor use white mustard seeds. The choice of color and type depends on the desired flavor and heat level of the sauce.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you’re out of Dijon mustard or simply looking to try something new, there are plenty of substitutes to choose from. From the classic taste of yellow mustard to the heat of horseradish sauce and the sweetness of honey mustard, these 12 options are sure to add flavor and depth to your favorite dishes.
Whether it’s the robust texture of stone ground mustard, the zesty punch of spicy brown mustard, or the intense heat of hot English mustard, you have plenty of choices to elevate your dishes. Next time you’re in a pinch, don’t hesitate to experiment with these delightful Dijon mustard substitutes. I would love to hear back from you about your experience experimenting with all or any one delicious Dijon mustard substitute.
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