Innovative Ways to Use Dijon Mustard Beyond Sandwiches and Hot Dogs

Welcome to a culinary adventure with Dijon mustard! This versatile spice is the second most consumed spice globally, second only to black pepper. While you may be familiar with its use on sandwiches and hot dogs, there are countless other ways Dijon mustard can enhance your meals. From rich steak sauces to creamy salad dressings, this article will explore some creative applications for Dijon mustard in the kitchen.

Cooking Techniques

To start your journey, let's explore a recipe that elevates a not-so-perfect steak. Pan-sear the steak in a cast iron skillet until tender, then deglaze the pan with red wine. Add Dijon mustard to the wine reduction, stir until it thickens, and continue adding cold butter. The result is a luscious, velvety mustard sauce that perfectly complements your steak. This technique adds an aromatic, spicy kick to a humble cut of meat, making it fit for prime time.

Salad Dressings

Dijon mustard doesn't just belong on sandwiches and hot dogs. It's a fantastic addition to any salad dressing. Mix it with olive oil, and a vinegar such as balsamic or white vinegar, and then add a touch of honey for balance. The result is a robust, tangy dressing that can elevate any green leaf or vegetable salad. This dressing is not only delicious but also perfect for a quick, home-cooked meal.

Food Pairings

Let's delve into the world of food pairings. Dijon mustard goes well with a myriad of meats and dishes. It pairs excellently with ham, beef, and various cold meats. My father has it on haslet, a traditional pork dish, and I like to add mustard powder to cheese sauces and homemade mayonnaise. My grandmother used to make a dish with boiled cod steaks and a mustard sauce. Dijon mustard also works well with sausages, particularly those made from pork, and enhances the flavor of many curries and German cuisine.

Grilled and Boiled Meats

Grilled and boiled meats are another great canvas for Dijon mustard. Whether you're cooking a top sirloin or a sirloin steak, the zesty and tangy flavors of Dijon mustard can transform the dish. For those who demand the best, opt for old English mustard from Colman's. This traditional French dish, Coq au Mustard, involves rabbit meat slowly cooked in a mustard sauce. Be sure to use a traditional French mustard, as the plastic bottle variety might not deliver the same exquisite flavor.

Quick and Easy Recipes

Here are a few quick and easy recipes to experiment with:

Mustard Steak Sauce: Sear the steak, deglaze with red wine, add Dijon mustard, reduce, and continue with cold butter until a smooth, thick sauce forms. Serve over the steak. Salad Dressing: Mix Dijon mustard with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of honey for a robust and versatile dressing. Mixed Mustard Dishes: Add mustard powder to cheese sauces and homemade mayonnaise for an extra kick. Make a simple cod steak dish with a mustard sauce for a delicious, budget-friendly meal.

Whatever your culinary interests, Dijon mustard is a spice worth exploring. From steak sauces to salad dressings, its versatility can elevate your cooking experience in countless ways. So next time you reach for the mustard, try something new and enjoy the unique flavors it can bring to your plate.

Happy cooking!