Mustard seed

Mustard Seed

The Mustard Seed is a small round seed from various mustard (Sinapis hirta) plants. The seeds are usually about 1 to 2 millimeters in diameter and may be colored from yellowish white to black. They are an important spice in many regional foods and may come from one of three different plants: black mustard (Brassica nigra), brown Indian mustard (B. juncea), or white mustard (Sinapis alba).

Cultivation and Production

Mustard seeds are the small round seeds of various mustard plants. The seeds are usually about 1 to 2 millimeters in diameter and may be colored from yellowish white to black. They are an important spice in many regional foods. Canada and Nepal are the world's major producers of mustard seed, between them accounting for around 57% of world production in 2010.

Culinary Uses

Mustard seeds are a rich source of oil and protein. The seed has oil as high as 46-48%, and whole seed meal has 43.6% protein. They are used as a spice in cooking, including in Indian cuisine. Mustard seeds are also an essential ingredient in many pickle recipes.

Medicinal Uses

In Ayurvedic medicine, mustard seed is thought to have several medicinal properties. It is believed to stimulate the metabolism and to have antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Religious Significance

In Christianity, the mustard seed is used in the parable of the Mustard Seed as a metaphor for the growth of the Kingdom of God from very small beginnings.

See Also

• Mustard plant
• Mustard (condiment)
• Parable of the Mustard Seed