Mustard may seem a simple condiment. It's stringent attributes and a variation of spices actually make for a very versatile compliment to meats, seafoods and hearty vegetables.

Basic Mustard Recipe

3 tablespoons mustard seeds (Yellow)

2 1/2 tablespoons mustard seeds (Brown)

1/3 cup white wine

1/3 cup white wine vinegar

1 shallot or 1 medium yellow onion, minced

Pinch ground allspice

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon white pepper

In a non-reactive bowl, combine all ingredients, cover and refrigerate overnight.

Transfer the marinated mustard mixture to a blender and mix until a thick spread consistency. Store in an airtight, non-reactive container in the refrigerator. Good for up to 2 weeks.



Fast Basic Mustard Recipe

1/2 cup White vinegar

1/2 cup Dry mustard (powder)

1/4 cup Water

3/4 cup Brown sugar

2 Eggs beaten


In saucepan mix vinegar and powdered mustard. Stir in remaining ingredients and bring to a slow boil over low heat. Stir frequently. Continue until thickened, about 10 minutes. Store in refrigerator.


Taste test your mustard creation with a combination of mild (water) crackers and the fire crackers below. By testing with a variety of crackers, you can adjust your mustard to fit your tastes and better compliment the foods you are serving.


Fire Crackers Recipe


1 cup flour

1/2 cup cornmeal

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon cayenne powder

1/2 teaspoon granulated onion

1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

2 Tablespoons grated sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup buttermilk

2 Tablespoons vegetable oil

non-stick cooking spray


Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl; stir well. Add in shredded cheese, buttermilk and oil; stir just until mixture is moistened.

Divide dough in half. On a cookie sheet, roll out half of dough into a thin, even layer that fills the sheet. Mark the dough by making about eight lengthwise cuts and about ten crosswise cuts. These should not go all the way through the dough. Prick entire surface of the dough with a fork.

Bake for 15 minutes until crisp and light brown. Cool on a wire rack. Break along score lines into individual crackers. Repeat process with other half of dough. Enjoy by using these crackers to taste test your favorite (and new favorite) mustards!!