Did You Know Mustard Is A Great Binder?
A good binding agent in cooking is something that helps ingredients stick together or adhere. There are many of these. Eggs are very common, so is milk, flour, and even chia seeds. However, if people are looking to add some flavor while they’re binding food, mustard could be the best choice. Mustard mixes vinegar, water, ground mustard seed, and sometimes other spices. The combination of liquid, acidity, and natural oils makes it act like culinary glue.
For Burgers and Meatloaf
Recipes, such as meatloaf, burgers, and meatballs all need a strong binder to make these dishes come together well. The mustard (and maybe egg, too) helps to prevent ingredients from falling apart while adding a subtle tang and moisture. A delicious balance can elevate your favorite recipes. Unlike using just egg, mustard comes with the added benefit of adding flavor.Â
Mustard in BBQ and Smoking
Pitmasters and backyard BBQ experts often use mustard as a slather before applying dry rubs. Mustard helps all of these seasonings adhere evenly to meats, like brisket, ribs, and pork shoulder. It doesn’t even leave behind a strong mustard taste after cooking. Rather, the mustard helps create a better bark with a crusty bark during smoking.
What About Vegan And Vegetarian Options?
Mustard is a perfect binder for these diets. For vegans, eggs are out of the question, so why not try mustard as a binder in veggie burgers or lentil patties? Mustard offers the same glue-like quality without having to compromise on ingredients. To add even more to the binding powder, combine with oats, beans, or chickpeas. Otherwise, you can make a great stuffed pepper and use mustard in the stuffing to keep it together with some added flavor.Â
For Dressings and Sauces
Mustard also acts as an emulsifier which helps oil and vinegar mix smoothly in salad dressings. Emulsification is another form of binding as it keeps the dressing from separating. The flavor combinations are endless depending on flavor preferences. Need some inspiration? Try the following three mustard based dressings;
- Classic Honey Mustard Dressing – a sweet and tangy crowd favorite. Just combine mustard, honey, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt and pepper.
- Zesty Lemon Mustard Vinaigrette – bright and refreshing, with a citrusy kick. Mix whole grain mustard, fresh lemon juice, EVOO, garlic, honey, salt and pepper.
- Creamy Maple Dijon Dressing –Â An instant fall favorite with its smooth, rich, and slightly sweet profile. Just mix Dijon mustard, maple syrup, Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper.
Easy, Everyday Kitchen Hack
Mustard isn’t just a condiment; it’s a delicious tool. Beyond the abovementioned tips, you can also:
- Spread on salmon before seasoning.
- Use in homemade marinades to tenderize and flavor.
- Mix into your favorite egg salad recipe or deviled eggs to keep texture creamy and uniform
Morehouse Quality Products Near You
Since 1989, Morehouse has been crafting the highest-quality mustard and horseradish products for our consumers near and far. We have been family owned for five generations and care about customer satisfaction and quality products over all else. Our varieties of mustards and horseradish satisfy both classic and innovative dishes. Find us in your local supermarket or proudly displayed at restaurants in your area.