RECIPESPRODUCTSPANTRYSHOPPING
BAKING GOODS /
SEASONINGS /
BROWN MUSTARD SEEDS

Brown Mustard Seeds

Brown mustard seeds are small, round seeds derived from the Brassica juncea plant, a relative of the cabbage and broccoli family. Native to the Himalayan region of India, these seeds are reddish-brown to black in color and have a pungent, slightly bitter taste. Brown mustard seeds are a popular spice used globally, especially in Indian, Mediterranean, and German cuisine, and are also a key component in the production of Dijon mustard and whole grain mustard. These tiny seeds are packed with health benefits, offering essential nutrients like manganese, iron, and calcium. They're often used whole or ground for seasoning, pickling, and in spice blends like curry powder and garam masala, lending a unique, slightly spicy flavor to dishes. Brown mustard seeds can also be sprouted for a slightly milder taste, used to make homemade mustard, or added to spice rubs and marinades for meats and vegetables.
#136
IN SEASONINGS
$1.04
AVG / OZ
brown mustard seeds
Brown Mustard Seeds FAQ
The most common questions when cooking with brown mustard seeds often center on how to properly use and toast them. A common mistake people make is not toasting the seeds enough or burning them, which can leave the seeds tasting bitter rather than their usual nutty and smoky flavor. To get the most out of brown mustard seeds, it's recommended to lightly dry roast them until they begin to pop, enhancing their flavor and allowing them to easily blend with other ingredients. Another confusion arises on whether to use brown mustard seeds whole or ground. Both forms have their uses depending on the recipe. While whole seeds can give texture and a burst of flavor, ground seeds offer a more disseminated flavor throughout the dish. Brown mustard seeds can also be soaked in water to make them less pungent if desired. Finally, a tip that is little known is the fact that you can sprout brown mustard seeds. Doing so changes the flavor profile, making them milder, sweeter and adding a nice crunch. The sprouts can be used in a variety of dishes, including salads and stir-fries.
Can you eat brown mustard seeds raw?
How do you toast brown mustard seeds?
What's the difference between brown and yellow mustard seeds?
How can I grind brown mustard seeds?
How can brown mustard seeds be used in cooking?
Are brown mustard seeds spicy?
Can I use brown mustard seeds instead of yellow in a recipe?
Can I make homemade mustard with brown mustard seeds?
Can brown mustard seeds be soaked?
What are the health benefits of brown mustard seeds?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does brown mustard seeds expire?
Unopened brown mustard seeds, when properly stored, can last up to 4 years from the purchase date. Once the container has been opened, your mustard seeds will typically stay fresh for about 2 to 3 years. If you decided to store them in the freezer, they can last indefinitely, although the flavor might start to degrade after about 1 year. Please always refer back to the best-before-date on the package to ensure absolute freshness.
How do you tell if brown mustard seeds is bad?
Unlike most other food products, it can be slightly trickier to tell if mustard seeds have gone bad as they rarely spoil or grow mold. Rather, they lose their potent flavor and aroma over time. If your mustard seeds smell stale or dirt-like, or if you notice they don't have much aroma left, it's likely they've past their prime and need to be replaced. Another indication is if the seeds look dull or have a dusty appearance.
Tips for storing brown mustard seeds to extend shelf life
• Store in a cool, dark, dry place to keep them fresh for the longest time. The pantry is a great spot. • Always use clean, dry utensils when handling the seeds to prevent introducing moisture and bacteria, which can promote spoilage. • To preserve peak flavor, consider freezing the seeds. Place them in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Freezing makes the seeds last longer, but they might lose some of their flavor over time. • Rotate your supply so that older seeds are used first. • If you plan to grind the seeds, do so in small amounts as ground mustard loses its flavor much more quickly.
EXPIRES WITHIN
2 - 3.6
YEARS
Health Info
Macros
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
Recipes with what you have
Download Cooklist
Get the app to track inventory, save recipes, build meal plans and order groceries from local stores.
Scan to download
QR Code