Out of all the different species you may find in your pantry, dry mustard has to be one of the most underrated ones. While it may not sound as appealing as taco seasoning or garlic powder, dry mustard can pack a powerful punch of flavor into your dishes.
For instance, it can be used in macaroni and cheese to provide a tangy sharpness to the meal without becoming overwhelming. Likewise, it can be added to sloppy Joes and your favorite meatloaf recipes, too.
However, what happens when you go to reach for your spice rack but realize you’re all out of dry mustard? Well, you’re going to need a substitute! Don’t worry, in this guide, we have rounded up all the best substitutes to use instead of dry mustard. Let’s get started.
What Is Dry Mustard?
Before we jump straight into the different substitutes for dry powder, you’ll first want to understand what the ingredient is.
Essentially, it is made using ground mustard seeds and is a common ingredient in a range of savory dishes, dressings, marinades, and spice rubs.
It can be found in most grocery stores, and it is commonly used to add a hint and kick of acidity to meat dishes or rich comfort foods. You should keep in mind that there is a massive difference between dry mustard and regular mustard.
Despite both being made from ground mustard seeds, prepared mustard (such as Dijon and yellow mustard) contain additional liquids such as water and vinegar to create a liquid consistency.
Luckily for you, wet mustard just happens to be one of the substitutes on this list – allowing you to use both ingredients interchangeably. Below, we explore all the other substitutes to dry mustard you need to try.
Dry Mustard Substitutes
1. Ground Mustard Seeds
If you’re looking for a great substitute to dry mustard then you can’t go wrong with mustard seeds since dry mustard is made by grounding these seeds into a powder! Here, all you need is a mortar and pestle, a coffee grinder, or a spice grinder.
Before you ground the seeds, use a heavy-set pan to toast them until they make a popping sound – this helps to bring out the flavor. Ground mustard seeds are a great alternative to dry mustard since you can use all the same ingredients in your dish.
That said, you may want to adjust your ratios since crushed seeds tend to pack a greater punch to dry mustard. Therefore, when using ground mustard seeds use a 1:2 ratio.
For instance, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of dry mustard, then use ½ tablespoon of ground mustard seeds.
2. Dijon Mustard
While you can use any ready-prepared mustard as a substitute for dry mustard, it is important to remember this important detail: mustard contains water, vinegar, and a ton of herbs and condiments. Therefore, it may slightly alter the flavor profile of your mustard.
However, that doesn’t mean you have to overlook this option! Dijon mustard is a great substitute that will provide your dish with a similar flavor profile.
While the texture may be different (since the sauce may be runnier), the aroma will remain the same when using the correct ratios. Here, all you need is approximately one tablespoon of Dijon for your dry mustard.
Plus, Dijon mustard can be used in a range of dishes, too, not only your vinaigrettes. For instance, you can use it to substitute dry mustard in your mac and cheese and a range of other rich sauces and cheesy casseroles.
3. Horseradish Powder
Mustard and horseradish are a match made in heaven. Both these spices are packed with tons of delicious flavors but also contain an intense heat that is sure to clear your sinuses.
When you use horseradish as a substitute for dry mustard, make sure to start with a small amount – making sure to test the flavor – and adjust the amount to your preference. This way, you won’t be left with any overpowering horseradish flavors in the final product.
4. Yellow Mustard
Did you know that yellow mustard is one of the oldest condiments in the world? In fact, it dates back to Ancient Greece – who knew such a common mustard could be so historical?!
The common mustard plant belongs to the cabbage family and was originally used as a medicinal herb. It wasn’t used as a food seasoning until the Roman Empire.
Here, the mustard seeds were ground into a powder to be combined with vinegar for a spicy paste. This was then used to flavor vegetables and meats.
Today, yellow mustard is a common spread used in sandwiches or on top of hot dogs. It is also a key ingredient in many sauces, such as honey mustard and ranch dressing.
5. Turmeric
Unfortunately, turmeric, as well as some other alternatives, are not commonly used in Western cuisine. However, it is a very frequent ingredient in Asia.
Thanks to its vibrant yellow color and strong peppery, bitter flavor, it can be used as a great substitute for dry mustard. The best part? You can purchase it already in a powder form – making it super simple to add to soups, sauces, and even mixed into your meat.
Plus, this golden powder is even said to contain a range of health benefits, which is why many people use it as a daily vitamin boost by adding it to their teas. Here, you can substitute ground mustard for equal parts turmeric powder.
That said, you want to pay close attention to the bitterness of turmeric. Therefore, if you’re working with other bitter ingredients, make sure to adjust your measurements.
6. Wasabi Powder
One of the best substitutes for dry mustard is wasabi powder. This is because they share a similar flavor that can cause the same nasal reactions when you put them in your mouth.
In terms of spice, it tends to contain a bit more of an oomph as opposed to dry mustard. Therefore, reduce the amount in your recipe when appropriate.
Final Thoughts
Dry mustard can be used in a ton of different recipes, including macaroni and cheese, meat dishes, and sauces, too. However, what happens when you don’t have any dry mustard left in your pantry? Well, you’re going to need an alternative.
This shouldn’t be too difficult with the help of this guide! Hopefully, we have informed you of some of the best substitutes for dry mustard.
