Who doesn’t love a sexy couple when Valentine’s Day is lingering in the air? How about a sexy, spicy couple? Even better…a sexy, spicy, unexpected couple?

Enter mustard.

Mustard can be quite complex. When mustard is used in cooking there are three main types: black, white, and brown. Black is the strongest. White mustard seeds are (suprise, surprise) yellow, the most mild, and the ones used to make that chirpy yellow spread familiar to us at our American ball parks. Brown mustard is really a dark yellow and is used to make Dijon which can be smooth or whole seed.

So what makes a tasty twosome when it comes to mustard?

1. Deviled Eggs. Mix the yolk with mayonnaise and  either powdered mustard or prepared dijon mustard then squeeze or scoop back into the yolk.

2. Mayonnaise. When you make your own mayonnaise add a tablespoon (or two) of powdered mustard before emulsifying the oil.

3. Cheeses. When making a cheese and cracker plate add a little dish of whole seed dijon mustard to the side. (Personally, I love a smear of dijon on a Wasa cracker with a slice of sharp cheese).

4. Traditional Spiced Desserts. Weird, right? Add a teaspoon of powdered mustard to spice cake, gingerbread, or molasses cookies to intensify the heat and flavor of the other spices.

5. Ham. Yes, this is a duh, but wait! Instead of a swipe of mustard try a mustard mousse. It’s like lightly flavored cloud of savory bliss. Here’s a recipe at Epicurious.

6. Sour Cream. Blend with sour cream along with some dried herbs, salt and fresh garlic and onion for a new twist on a chip dip.

7. White Fish. As a base for sauce, crumbles and encrusted: mustard is key.

8. Other spices. Mustard pairs well with tarragon, turmeric, pepper, paprika, and chili powder. These will help get you started: use your imagination.

9. Honey. Just as in honey mustard you can mix the two together. The ratio is really to your preference but start with 2 tablespoons of honey for 3 tablespoons of mustard.

And as promised…the threesome!

Carrots, Tarragon and Red Onions. This trio requires a recipe and one is available in the form of a tart.  This savory carrot tart uses plain yogurt in the crust and a layer of dijon mustard. Something about the yogurt’s crisp addition along with the warmth of the carrots and sweet red onions is very desirable. Thank Eating Well for the recipe.

Resources

My favorite hot sauce line, The Karma Sauce Company, just released a new batch of mustards. Be sure to check out their chipotle, garlic, or cold-processed mustard with a dash of honey. Good stuff.

In our house we use the Simply Organic ground white mustard seed (which is yellow, remember?). I’m open to trying others but have been very happy with this one. You can order it here.

Have any other mustard pairs you’d like to add? Your additions are welcomed! And please if you have a recipe, point to it in your comments.