Stone ground mustard is a type of mustard made by grinding whole mustard seeds between two heavy stones. This old-fashioned technique results in a coarse, robust mustard with a potent flavor. While regular yellow mustard is mild, stone ground mustard packs some serious punch and works well in recipes that call for a hearty, spicy mustard. Its texture also makes it an ideal pairing for certain foods and dishes.
Sandwiches
Stone ground mustard is a classic accompaniment for deli sandwiches like pastrami, corned beef, turkey, and ham sandwiches. Its coarse texture and spicy flavor stand up well to sliced deli meats. Spread stone ground mustard on rye bread or a sandwich roll before layering on the meat for a tangy flavor contrast. It also pairs nicely with cheeses like swiss or provolone. Other great sandwich additions include sauerkraut, pickles, and coleslaw.
In addition to classic deli sandwiches, stone ground mustard brings flavor to subs, paninis, burgers, bratwursts, hot dogs, and sausages. Its bold taste balances out meats and cuts through any richness. The mustard seeds add texture to each bite. A schmear of stone ground mustard on a sandwich adds the perfect hot and crunchy touch.
Best meat pairings
- Pastrami
- Corned beef
- Roast beef
- Turkey
- Ham
- Salami
- Hot dogs
- Sausages
- Bratwurst
- Hamburgers
Best cheese pairings
- Swiss
- Provolone
- Cheddar
- Gouda
- Havarti
- Muenster
- Pepper jack
Salads and dressings
A dollop of stone ground mustard can transform the flavor of salad dressings and vinaigrettes. Its bold, spicy taste pairs well with acidic ingredients like vinegar and lemon juice. Simply whisk a spoonful of stone ground mustard into your favorite vinaigrette recipe for a kick of flavor. It also enhances creamy salad dressings.
In addition to dressings, a bit of mustard sprinkled over greens adds interest to an otherwise plain salad. Try a light drizzle on spinach, mixed greens, kale, or arugula salads. Stone ground mustard also complements heartier salad ingredients like potatoes, beans, grains, and proteins like chicken, tuna, or eggs.
Salad recipes to try
- Spinach salad with stone ground mustard vinaigrette
- Mixed green salad with chicken, apples, and mustard dressing
- German potato salad with stone ground mustard
- Three bean salad with mustard dressing
Meats and mains
A spoonful of mustard can enhance the flavor of many meats and main dishes. Try stirring some into ground meat before forming burger patties or meatballs. The mustard seeds add texture and moisture while also acting as a flavor boost. A bit of stone ground mustard also complements steaks, chops, chicken breasts, fish fillets, egg dishes, and more. Stir it into sauces, rub it on before cooking, or use it as a finishing touch.
Recipe ideas
- Burgers with stone ground mustard
- Meatballs with mustard glaze
- Pork chops with mustard cream sauce
- Chicken breasts marinated in mustard, garlic, and herbs
- Baked salmon with mustard dill sauce
- Deviled eggs with stone ground mustard
Vegetables and side dishes
In addition to sandwiches and salads, stone ground mustard makes a flavorful addition to cooked vegetables. It adds a zesty touch to cooked greens like collards, kale, spinach, and broccoli. Try stirring a bit into mashed potatoes for a flavor kick. It also complements roasted vegetables – add it to the oil and herbs before roasting. A dollop of mustard works well alongside heartier sides like beans, lentils, and grains.
Recipe suggestions
- Green beans with stone ground mustard butter
- Roasted brussels sprouts with stone ground mustard vinaigrette
- Mashed potatoes with mustard and herbs
- Three bean salad with stone ground mustard dressing
Snacks and appetizers
In addition to meals, a bit of stone ground mustard can elevate snacks and appetizers. Try dipping pretzels in mustard for a classic bar snack. It also makes a zesty addition to cheese boards – spread it on crackers with slices of sharp cheddar or Swiss. For appetizers, add it to deviled eggs or mix it with mayo for quick onion or spinach dip.
Snack ideas
- Pretzels with stone ground mustard
- Cheddar cheese crackers with mustard
- Deviled eggs
- Baked onion dip
- Spinach artichoke dip
Baked goods
While not as common as sandwiches and mains, stone ground mustard can also add flavor to baked goods. Its tangy, spicy taste pairs well with cheese in savory baking applications. Add stone ground mustard to biscuit dough or scones for a kick. It also complements egg dishes like quiche or baked omelets. For dessert baking, consider adding a bit to chocolate cake or brownie batter. The mustard enhances the chocolate flavor without tasting out of place.
Baking ideas
- Cheddar scone with stone ground mustard
- Cheese and mustard biscuits
- Ham and cheese puff pastry pockets with mustard
- Mustard chocolate cake
Cocktails and beverages
In addition to cooking, stone ground mustard can complement drinks and cocktails. Add a spoonful to Bloody Marys for extra spice – the tomato juice will mellow the mustard’s bite. It also pairs well with vodka or gin when making martinis. For non-alcoholic drinks, blend it into lemonade, dress up hot chocolate, or stir it into apple cider.
Drink ideas
- Spicy Bloody Mary
- Stone ground mustard martini
- Mustard lemonade
- Hot chocolate with stone ground mustard
Buying and storing
Stone ground mustard is widely available at most grocery stores, usually in the condiment aisle. Popular brands like Grey Poupon and Inglehoffer’s make stone ground style mustards. Buy it in a squeezable bottle for convenience, or look for it sold in jars. Mustard seeds naturally have a long shelf life, and an unopened jar of stone ground mustard will stay fresh for over a year in the pantry.
Once opened, mustard lasts for several months, especially when stored in the refrigerator. Look for stone ground mustard made with simple, natural ingredients like water, mustard seeds, vinegar, salt, and spices. Avoid products with artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. Check the label for an expiration or “best by” date.
What to look for when buying
- Made from whole mustard seeds
- Coarse texture
- Tangy, robust flavor
- Short ingredient list
- Squeezable bottle or jar
- Reputable brand like Grey Poupon
Substitutions
While stone ground mustard has a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute other types of mustard in a pinch:
- Yellow mustard – Use 1.5 to 2 times the amount since yellow mustard is milder.
- Dijon mustard – Closest substitute, but milder. Use the same amount.
- Whole grain mustard – Also made from whole seeds but not stone ground. Use the same amount.
- Prepared horseradish – Adds a similar spice. Use about half as much.
- Wasabi – For a different spicy kick. Use about 1 teaspoon wasabi paste per 1 tablespoon mustard.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of mustard seeds are used?
Stone ground mustard is usually made from a blend of brown and yellow mustard seeds which come from the brassica juncea mustard plant. Brown seeds are slightly spicier than yellow.
Is stone ground mustard gluten free?
Most traditional stone ground mustard is gluten-free, since it’s made from just mustard seeds, vinegar, water, and spices. However, some flavored varieties may contain gluten, so check labels if avoiding gluten.
Can stone ground mustard go bad?
An unopened jar of stone ground mustard lasts 1-2 years in the pantry. Once opened, it stays fresh for about 6 months in the fridge. Old mustard can taste unpleasantly bitter.
Why is it called stone ground?
Stone ground refers to the traditional way it’s made – by grinding whole mustard seeds between two heavy stones to get the coarse texture. This contrasts with smoother, more processed mustards.
Is stone ground mustard spicy?
Stone ground mustard has a robust, tangy flavor and packs more heat than regular yellow mustard. The coarse texture provides little hits of spiciness from the whole seeds. It’s not extremely hot but has a strong kick.
Conclusion
With its unique coarse texture and tangy, spicy flavor, stone ground mustard is a versatile ingredient that can add interest to sandwiches, salads, meats, baked goods, and more. It has a long shelf life, making it a convenient staple condiment to have on hand. A little bit of stone ground mustard goes a long way in livening up both weeknight dinners and special occasion meals.