Authentic French Mustard Sauce
The use of mustard in France can be traced back even further, with the Romans known to have cultivated mustard plants and used mustard as a spice and medicine. However, the specific styles and techniques that we associate with French mustard today, like the use of verjuice (the juice of unripe grapes) in Dijon mustard, were refined over centuries in these regions.
Ingredients
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or crème fraîche (for a slightly tangy version)
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (you can use a mix of Dijon and whole grain for texture variation)
• 1 shallot, finely minced
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or dry white wine (optional for extra depth)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs like thyme, parsley, or tarragon, finely chopped (optional, for a herby finish)
Process
1. Prepare Ingredients:
– Finely mince the shallot to ensure it integrates well into the sauce without overpowering it with large pieces.
2. Cook the Shallot (Optional, but recommended for a milder flavor):
– In a small saucepan over medium heat, sauté the shallot in a bit of butter or oil until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. This step helps mellow the raw shallot flavor.
3. Add Cream:
– If you sautéed the shallot, add the cream or crème fraîche to the pan. If not, simply combine the cream and shallot in the saucepan.
– Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
4. Incorporate Mustard:
– Reduce the heat to low and whisk in the Dijon mustard. If you’re using vinegar or wine, add it now. This will slightly thin out the sauce and add a bit of acidity.
– Continue to whisk until the french mustard sauce is hot but not boiling. You want it to be smooth and slightly thickened.
5. Season:
– Taste and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, Dijon mustard can be quite salty, so add salt carefully.
6. Finish with Herbs (Optional):
– If using fresh herbs, stir them in right before serving. This adds a fresh aromatic note to the sauce.
Variations of Mustard
Herb Mustard Sauce
Add more herbs or experiment with different ones like dill for fish, or rosemary for lamb.
Spicy Mustard
Can include additional spices like horseradish, chili, or cayenne pepper.
Honey Mustard Sauce
Add a tablespoon of honey for a sweet contrast, making it great for pork or as a dipping sauce.
American Mustard
Made with yellow mustard seeds, turmeric & often vinegar.
French mustard, particularly varieties like Dijon, is known for its unique sharp flavor which comes from the use of brown or black mustard seeds and white wine, offering a more complex taste profile than standard yellow french mustard. It’s lower in calories and fat compared to many other condiments, making it a healthier choice for flavoring foods without adding excessive calories.
