World Mustard Day is celebrated annually on August 6. There are many types of this seasoning, but they are all prepared from the grains of the plant of the same name.
Gourmets and just lovers use mustard as an addition to various dishes, most often – meat. But before this sauce got on our table, it had to undergo many changes.
In ancient manuscripts, mustard is mentioned in ancient Rome. It was there that people first appreciated the healing properties and taste of this spice.
Next were the Greeks, who believed that mustard seeds had magical properties. They added them to love drinks and healing broths. In magic potions, mustard was mixed with Indian seeds and other edible flowers, thus trying to achieve the desired effect.
Thanks to the Romans, other nations learned about mustard. It was the citizens of the Roman Empire who distributed the grains of this plant first in Germany and then in England.
During the Middle Ages in northern Europe, it was believed that a few mustard seeds sown around the house were able to protect its inhabitants from evil spirits. During the Napoleonic Wars, mustard continued its triumphant march across Europe. There were also some curiosities – in order to keep up with fashion, a new dish was served for dessert.
At the end of the 14th century, in those European countries where mustard has already spread as a seasoning for meat dishes, a real competition began between different manufacturers, offering a variety of flavors.
As always in such situations, petty fraudsters wanted to make money in the new fashion. Very high fines have been imposed in some cities, including imprisonment, for selling poor quality mustard. And its taste was evaluated by a special commission of connoisseurs of this delicacy.
Only two centuries later, the first large company was established in Dijon to sell vinegar and mustard. It was there that the well-known type of modern sauce was born, which is still used by many manufacturers.
We will remind, earlier we told how it is possible to prepare mustard at home and advised, what mustard is better not to use.