The 16 Best Substitutes For Black Mustard Seeds

Mustard seeds are a staple in many cuisines, but black mustard seeds have a particularly bold flavor that can make any dish stand out.

Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to find these tiny little seeds.

Whether you’re looking for an alternative due to availability or simply want to try something new, there are plenty of substitutes for black mustard seeds.

From ground yellow mustard powder and brown mustard seed to cumin and turmeric, this article will explore the 16 best alternatives to black mustard seeds.

What Are Black Mustard Seeds?

Black mustard seeds are the small, round seeds of the black mustard plant (Brassica nigra).

They have a strong, pungent flavor and aroma that is slightly bitter.

The flavor of these seeds intensifies when they are cooked or roasted.

Black mustard seeds can be used whole or ground into a powder to add flavor to dishes such as curries, pickles, chutneys, and sauces.

The black mustard seed is one of three types of mustard seed commonly used in cooking; the other two being white and brown.

All three varieties come from different species within the Brassica family but all share similar characteristics including their size and shape.

Black mustard seeds are smaller than white or brown ones but have a more intense flavor due to their higher oil content.

When cooked in oil or ghee (clarified butter), they will pop like popcorn releasing their flavorful oils into the dish.

Black mustard seeds can also be sprouted for use in salads or sandwiches for an added crunchy texture and nutty taste.

Sprouting increases their nutritional value by making them easier to digest while also unlocking some vitamins and minerals not available in unsprouted form.

The 16 Best Substitutes For Black Mustard Seeds

Black mustard seeds are a staple in many Indian dishes and can add unique flavor to your recipes.

But if you’re looking for a substitute, there are several options available.

Here we look at 16 great alternatives:

1 – Brown Mustard Seeds

Brown mustard seeds are a type of mustard seed that is used in cooking.

They are smaller and milder than black mustard seeds, and have a nutty, earthy flavor.

Brown mustard seeds are commonly used in Indian, Chinese, and Southeast Asian cuisines.

To use brown mustard seeds instead of black mustard seeds, you can use them in the same way.

For example, you can use them to make a spicy mustard sauce or to add flavor to a stir-fry.

You can also use them to make pickles or to add flavor to soups and stews.

When using brown mustard seeds, you may need to use more than you would with black mustard seeds, as they are milder in flavor.

Additionally, you may want to toast the seeds before using them to bring out their flavor.

To do this, simply heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the mustard seeds.

Toast them for a few minutes, stirring often, until they become fragrant and start to pop.

2 – White Mustard Seeds

White mustard seeds are the seeds of the white mustard plant, which is a member of the Brassica family.

They are much milder in flavor than black mustard seeds and have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.

White mustard seeds are commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cooking, as well as in pickling and canning.

When using white mustard seeds instead of black mustard seeds, you should use a smaller amount as they are milder in flavor.

For example, if a recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of black mustard seeds, you should use only 1/2 teaspoon of white mustard seeds.

White mustard seeds can be used in a variety of dishes, such as curries, stews, and salads.

They can also be used to make a flavorful mustard paste or pickling brine.

To make a mustard paste, simply grind the white mustard seeds in a mortar and pestle or spice grinder and mix with a little water to form a paste.

This paste can then be used as a condiment or as a marinade for meats and vegetables.

To make a pickling brine, simply combine white mustard seeds with vinegar, sugar, and spices and bring to a boil. This brine can then be used to pickle vegetables or fruits.

3 – Mustard Powder

Mustard powder is a ground form of mustard seeds, which are the small, round seeds of the mustard plant.

It is a yellow-brown powder made from grinding the seeds of the mustard plant.

Mustard powder has a strong, pungent flavor and is used as a spice in many dishes.

Mustard powder can be used as a substitute for black mustard seeds in recipes.

To use it, mix the powder with a small amount of water to create a paste.

This paste can then be added to dishes in place of the black mustard seeds.

The paste will add a strong, pungent flavor to the dish, so it is important to use it sparingly.

The amount of mustard powder used should be adjusted according to the desired flavor.

Mustard powder can also be used as a dry rub for meats or vegetables.

Simply mix the powder with other spices and herbs, such as garlic powder, paprika, and oregano, and rub it onto the food before cooking.

This will add a flavorful kick to the dish.

4 – Horseradish

Horseradish is a root vegetable that is related to the mustard family.

It has a sharp, pungent flavor that is often used as a condiment or as an ingredient in sauces and dressings.

It is usually grated or ground into a paste and mixed with vinegar and other seasonings.

Horseradish can be used as a substitute for black mustard seeds in many recipes.

To use it, simply grate or grind the horseradish root into a paste and mix it with vinegar and other seasonings.

This mixture can then be used in place of the black mustard seeds in recipes such as curries, marinades, and sauces.

It can also be used as a topping for sandwiches, salads, and other dishes.

The flavor of horseradish is much stronger than that of black mustard seeds, so it is important to adjust the amount used accordingly.

5 – Wasabi Powder

Wasabi powder is a type of Japanese condiment made from the root of the Wasabia japonica plant. It has a strong, spicy flavor that is similar to horseradish.

Wasabi powder is commonly used as a condiment for sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes.

To use wasabi powder instead of black mustard seeds, you would need to mix the powder with a small amount of water to create a paste.

This paste can then be used as a condiment for sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes. It can also be used as a topping for salads, noodles, and other dishes.

Wasabi powder can also be used as a marinade for meats and vegetables.

When using wasabi powder, it is important to remember that it is much spicier than black mustard seeds.

Therefore, it is best to start with a small amount and adjust the amount as needed.

Additionally, it is important to note that wasabi powder does not have the same shelf life as black mustard seeds, so it is best to use it within a few days of opening the package.

6 – Duesseldorf Mustard

Duesseldorf Mustard is a type of German mustard that is made with white wine, vinegar, and mustard seeds.

It is a milder mustard than the traditional black mustard seed and has a slightly sweet and tangy flavor.

It is often used as a condiment on sandwiches, hot dogs, and sausages.

To use Duesseldorf Mustard instead of black mustard seeds, you can mix it with other ingredients to make a mustard sauce.

To make a basic mustard sauce, mix together 1/4 cup of Duesseldorf Mustard, 1/4 cup of white wine, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.

Mix all of the ingredients together until they are well combined.

This mustard sauce can be used as a condiment on sandwiches, hot dogs, and sausages.

It can also be used as a marinade for meats or as a dip for vegetables.

7 – German Mustard

German Mustard is a type of mustard that is made from a combination of brown and yellow mustard seeds, vinegar, and spices.

It is a milder and sweeter version of traditional mustard, and is often used in German cuisine.

To use German Mustard instead of black mustard seeds, you can simply substitute it in any recipe that calls for mustard seeds.

For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of black mustard seeds, you can use 1 tablespoon of German Mustard instead.

German Mustard can also be used as a condiment on sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and other dishes. It can also be used in salad dressings, marinades, and sauces.

When using German Mustard, it is important to remember that it is milder and sweeter than traditional mustard, so you may need to adjust the amount used in a recipe to get the desired flavor.

Additionally, German Mustard is usually sold in jars, so you may need to adjust the amount of liquid used in a recipe to account for the added liquid from the jar.

8 – Wholegrain Mustard

Wholegrain mustard is a type of mustard made from whole mustard seeds that have been ground into a paste. It has a coarse texture and a strong, pungent flavor.

It is often used as a condiment or as an ingredient in sauces, dressings, and marinades.

When using wholegrain mustard instead of black mustard seeds, you can use it in the same way you would use black mustard seeds.

For example, you can use it to make a classic mustard vinaigrette by combining it with olive oil, vinegar, and herbs. You can also use it to make a spicy mustard sauce for grilled meats or vegetables.

Additionally, you can use it to add flavor to soups, stews, and casseroles.

When using wholegrain mustard, it is important to remember that it is much more pungent than black mustard seeds, so you should use it sparingly.

Start with a small amount and add more to taste. You can also mix it with other ingredients, such as mayonnaise or yogurt, to mellow out the flavor.

9 – Stoneground Mustard

Stoneground mustard is a type of mustard made from whole mustard seeds that have been ground into a paste.

It is usually made with brown or black mustard seeds, but can also be made with yellow mustard seeds.

The paste is usually mixed with vinegar, water, and other ingredients to create a thick, flavorful condiment.

Stoneground mustard can be used in place of black mustard seeds in many recipes.

It has a more intense flavor than black mustard seeds, so it is best used in recipes that call for a strong mustard flavor. For example, it can be used in marinades, dressings, and sauces.

It can also be used as a condiment on sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs.

When using stoneground mustard instead of black mustard seeds, it is important to adjust the amount used.

Stoneground mustard is much more concentrated than black mustard seeds, so it is best to start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed.

It is also important to note that stoneground mustard can be quite spicy, so it is best to start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

10 – Creole Mustard

Creole mustard is a type of mustard that is made with a combination of brown mustard seeds, vinegar, and spices.

It is a popular condiment in the southern United States, particularly in Louisiana.

It has a slightly sweet and spicy flavor, and is often used as a condiment for sandwiches, hot dogs, and other dishes.

To use Creole mustard instead of black mustard seeds, you can simply substitute it in any recipe that calls for black mustard seeds.

For example, if a recipe calls for black mustard seeds to be added to a vinaigrette or marinade, you can substitute Creole mustard instead.

You can also use it as a condiment on sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and other dishes.

It can also be used as a base for sauces, such as a Creole mustard sauce for grilled meats or fish.

Additionally, you can use it to make a spicy mustard dip for vegetables or chips.

11 – Chinese Mustard

Chinese mustard is a type of mustard that is made from the seeds of the Brassica juncea plant.

It is a type of mustard that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. It has a strong, pungent flavor and is often used as a condiment or as an ingredient in sauces and marinades.

Chinese mustard can be used as a substitute for black mustard seeds in many recipes.

To use it as a substitute, you can grind the Chinese mustard seeds into a powder and use it in place of the black mustard seeds.

The powder can be added to sauces, marinades, and dressings to give them a spicy, pungent flavor.

You can also use the powder as a dry rub for meats or vegetables.

When using Chinese mustard as a substitute for black mustard seeds, it is important to remember that it is much spicier than the black mustard seeds.

Therefore, you should use less of the Chinese mustard powder than you would use of the black mustard seeds.

Additionally, you may want to adjust the other ingredients in the recipe to balance out the spiciness of the Chinese mustard.

12 – Spicy Brown Mustard

Spicy Brown Mustard is a type of mustard made from brown mustard seeds.

It is a popular condiment in the United States and is often used as a substitute for black mustard seeds.

The flavor of Spicy Brown Mustard is slightly spicier than that of regular yellow mustard, and it has a slightly nutty flavor.

To use Spicy Brown Mustard instead of black mustard seeds, you can use it as a condiment on sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, and other dishes.

You can also use it as a marinade for meats, or as a base for salad dressings.

You can also use it as a topping for baked potatoes, or as a dip for vegetables.

When using Spicy Brown Mustard as a condiment, you can mix it with mayonnaise or other condiments to create a unique flavor.

You can also mix it with honey or other sweeteners to create a sweet and spicy flavor.

When using Spicy Brown Mustard as a marinade, you can mix it with oil, vinegar, garlic, and other herbs and spices to create a flavorful marinade.

You can also use it as a base for sauces, such as a spicy mustard sauce for grilled meats.

When using Spicy Brown Mustard as a topping, you can mix it with butter or other ingredients to create a creamy topping for baked potatoes or other dishes.

You can also use it as a dip for vegetables or chips.

13 – Dijon Mustard

Dijon mustard is a type of mustard that originated in the city of Dijon, France.

It is made from a combination of brown mustard seeds, white wine, and spices.

It has a creamy texture and a tangy, slightly sweet flavor.

Dijon mustard can be used as a substitute for black mustard seeds in many recipes.

For example, it can be used in place of black mustard seeds in a vinaigrette or marinade.

It can also be used to make a creamy mustard sauce for sandwiches or as a condiment for grilled meats.

Additionally, it can be used to make a flavorful mustard-based dressing for salads.

When using Dijon mustard as a substitute for black mustard seeds, it is important to adjust the amount used according to the desired flavor.

Generally, Dijon mustard is more pungent than black mustard seeds, so it is best to start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed.

Additionally, it is important to note that Dijon mustard can be quite salty, so it is best to taste the dish before adding additional salt.

14 – Caraway Seeds

Caraway seeds are small, crescent-shaped seeds that have a pungent, anise-like flavor.

They are commonly used in European and Middle Eastern cooking, and are often used to flavor breads, cheeses, and other dishes.

Caraway seeds can be used as a substitute for black mustard seeds in many recipes.

When using caraway seeds as a substitute for black mustard seeds, it is important to remember that caraway seeds have a much milder flavor than black mustard seeds.

Therefore, you may need to use more caraway seeds than the recipe calls for in order to achieve the desired flavor.

Additionally, caraway seeds should be added at the beginning of the cooking process, as their flavor will be more pronounced if they are cooked for a longer period of time.

When using caraway seeds as a substitute for black mustard seeds, it is also important to remember that caraway seeds are much smaller than black mustard seeds.

Therefore, you may need to grind the caraway seeds in a spice grinder or mortar and pestle before adding them to the recipe.

This will help to ensure that the caraway seeds are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Finally, it is important to note that caraway seeds are not as pungent as black mustard seeds, so you may need to adjust the amount of other spices in the recipe to compensate for the milder flavor of the caraway seeds.

15 – Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that is commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian cooking.

It is a bright yellow-orange powder made from the root of the turmeric plant, which is native to India and Southeast Asia.

Turmeric has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor and is often used to add color and flavor to dishes.

Turmeric can be used as a substitute for black mustard seeds in many recipes.

To use turmeric instead of black mustard seeds, start by adding a teaspoon of turmeric to the dish.

You can also add a pinch of cumin and coriander to enhance the flavor.

Turmeric can be used in place of black mustard seeds in curries, stews, and other savory dishes.

It can also be used to add color and flavor to salads, soups, and other dishes.

When using turmeric, it is important to remember that a little goes a long way, so start with a small amount and adjust to taste.

16 – Cumin Seeds

Cumin seeds are the dried seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, which is a member of the parsley family.

They are small, oblong-shaped seeds that are brown in color and have a slightly bitter, nutty flavor.

Cumin seeds are commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mexican cuisines.

Cumin seeds can be used as a substitute for black mustard seeds in many recipes.

To use cumin seeds instead of black mustard seeds, you should first dry roast the cumin seeds in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until they become fragrant.

This will bring out the flavor of the cumin seeds and make them more aromatic.

Once the cumin seeds are roasted, you can then grind them into a powder or use them whole in your recipe.

Cumin seeds can be used in a variety of dishes, including curries, stews, soups, and marinades.

They can also be used to add flavor to vegetables, rice, and other grains.