Introduction to Mustard Paste:
Making mustard paste at home is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. This easy, authentic recipe uses natural ingredients like mustard seeds, vinegar, and spices to create a bold, tangy flavor.
Perfect for sandwiches, dips, or marinades, homemade mustard is fresher, healthier, and more customizable than store-bought versions crafted straight from your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Resting/Soaking Time: 2–4 hours
- Yields: Approx. 1/2 cup mustard paste
- Spice Level: Medium to Hot (adjustable)
🧾 Ingredients Mustard Paste:
- 4 tbsp yellow mustard seeds (rai)
- 2 tbsp black mustard seeds (optional, for deeper flavor)
- 1/4 tsp turmeric powder
- 2–3 cloves garlic (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 small chili of green (optional, for heat)
- Salt to taste (about 1/2 tsp)
- 2–3 tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice (acts as a preservative and adds tang)
- 2–3 tbsp water (adjust for desired consistency)
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Mustard Paste:
🔸 Step 1: Soak the Mustard Seeds
- In a bowl, combine the black and yellow mustard seeds.
- Add enough water to cover them and let them soak for 2–4 hours (or overnight for a milder flavor).
🔸 Step 2: Prepare the Paste
1. Drain excess water from the soaked seeds.
2. Put the following in a small food processor or spice grinder:
- Soaked mustard seeds
- Soaked mustard seeds
- Garlic and green chili (if using)
- Salt
- Turmeric
- Vinegar or lemon juice
3. Blend everything into a smooth, thick paste, adding 1–3 tbsp water slowly as needed. It should be creamy without being runny.
🔸 Step 3: Rest the Paste
- Let the paste sit at room temperature for 1–2 hours after blending to develop full flavor and pungency.
🧂 Storage:
- Keep refrigerated in an airtight glass jar.
- When stored correctly, it lasts for two to three weeks.
- Stir before each use.
🍴 How to Use Homemade Mustard Paste:
- As a sandwich, burger, and wrap spread
- Mixed into salad dressings or dips
- As a marinade base for fish, chicken, or beef
- Stirred into curry bases or lentils for tang and depth
- In achar (pickles) for an authentic desi flavor
🔥 Tips for Best Results:
The flavor of black mustard seeds is stronger and spicier than that of yellow mustard seeds.
- To prevent infection, always use a clean spoon.
- You can add a few drops of mustard oil for even more pungency and shelf life.
