Pickled Mustard Seeds

Pickled Mustard Seeds are a versatile condiment that provides a unique popping texture and a gentle tang to your meals. They look like tiny yellow pearls and can elevate the presentation of almost any dish. This recipe is simple to prepare and requires only a few basic pantry staples. You can use these seeds to add acidity and crunch to sandwiches, salads or cheese boards.
★★★★★
★★★★★
4.7 (6 ratings)
Share the recipe here
Photo of the finished dish for the recipe Pickled Mustard Seeds

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

Step 1
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.
Step 2
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.
Step 3
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.
Step 4
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.

Ingredients

servings
Adjust quantity
  • 100 g yellow mustard seeds
  • 200 ml apple cider vinegar
  • 100 ml water
  • 50 g caster sugar
  • 5 g sea salt

Cooking time

Kitchen tools

Nutrition information

NUTRITIONper serving
  • Energy:243 kJ / 58 kcal
  • Fat:2 g
  • - of which saturates:0.1 g
  • Carbohydrates:8 g
  • - of which sugars:4 g
  • Protein:2 g
  • Fibre:1 g
  • Salt:160 mg

People also ask

When stored in a sealed glass jar, Pickled Mustard Seeds will stay fresh for up to two months in the refrigerator. The vinegar and sugar act as natural preservatives for the seeds. Always ensure you use a clean utensil to remove the seeds from the jar to prevent any contamination.
Pickled Mustard Seeds are a fantastic addition to a classic ploughman's lunch or a charcuterie board. They also work very well as a topping for devilled eggs, smoked salmon or roast pork. Many people like to stir them into mayonnaise or vinaigrettes to add a bit of texture and acidity.
Pickled Mustard Seeds usually takes about 15 minutes to make. The time can vary slightly with the quantity and method. Check the texture towards the end.
What do you think of this recipe?
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.7 / 5 - (6 ratings)