What makes pickled mustard seeds a good choice?
Making your own Pickled Mustard Seeds is much more affordable than buying gourmet jars from the shop. You have full control over the sweetness and can adjust the vinegar to suit your preference. These seeds act as a wonderful palate cleanser when served alongside rich or fatty meats. They are a great way to explore home preserving with very little equipment or time required.
A step-by-step guide to pickled mustard seeds
Rinse: Place the mustard seeds in a fine mesh sieve and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water. This step helps to remove any bitterness from the outer coating of the seeds. Allow the excess water to drain away before you move to the next stage.
Combine: Pour the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar and salt into a small saucepan over a medium heat. Stir the liquid gently until the sugar and salt have completely dissolved into the mixture. Add the rinsed mustard seeds to the pan and bring everything to a light boil.
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low so the liquid is just simmering gently. Cook the mixture for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally to ensure the seeds do not stick. The seeds will gradually absorb the liquid and become plump and soft.
Cool: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture sit for a few minutes. Transfer the warm Pickled Mustard Seeds into a clean glass jar and seal the lid tightly. Allow the jar to cool completely at room temperature before placing it in the fridge.
Important tips for pickled mustard seeds
For a different flavour profile, you can swap the apple cider vinegar for white wine vinegar or rice vinegar. Make sure you use a clean jar to help the Pickled Mustard Seeds stay fresh for a long time in the refrigerator. If you like more spice, you can add a pinch of dried chilli flakes or a few peppercorns to the saucepan. The liquid will continue to thicken as the seeds sit in the jar over the next few days. Do not worry if the seeds seem very firm at first, as they will continue to soften in the brine.
Wait at least twenty-four hours before eating them to allow the flavours to fully develop. They are excellent when folded into a potato salad or used as a garnish for grilled fish. Always use a clean spoon when serving to keep the contents of the jar fresh.
Find more ideas here:
scallop starter,
traditional veal roast or
grilled flank steak.