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Ingredient substitute

What can you use instead of mustard?

Mustard powder + water, Horseradish and Turmeric + vinegar are the easiest swaps. Below: 4 options with the right amount to use, what changes in the dish and which diets they suit.

The quick answer

Mustard powder + water. Use the same amount. Mix 1 tsp powder + 1 tsp water = prepared mustard.

Adjust: Let sit 10 min after mixing for flavor to bloom.

  1. Mustard powder + water

    Drop-in swap

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Mix 1 tsp powder + 1 tsp water = prepared mustard.

    Flavor
    Stronger than prepared mustard.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Let sit 10 min after mixing for flavor to bloom.
    Best for
    Any recipe

    vegan

  2. Horseradish

    Small adjustment

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Heat from different compound. Nasal vs. tongue.

    Flavor
    Hot, pungent.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Use sparingly — much hotter.
    Best for
    Sandwiches, Sauces

    vegan

  3. Turmeric + vinegar

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Color only. Adds earthy flavor.

    Flavor
    Earthy, not tangy.
    Texture
    Same.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Not a real substitute — mimics color not flavor.
    Best for
    Color only, Curries

    vegan

  4. Wasabi

    Changes flavor or texture

    Use the same amount (ratio 1:1)

    Very different heat — nasal burn.

    Flavor
    Pungent, hot.
    Texture
    Paste.
    Moisture
    Same.
    Adjust
    Use tiny amount.
    Best for
    Sushi, Asian

    vegan

Common questions

What is the best substitute for mustard?

Mustard powder + water is the closest swap. Use the same amount. Mix 1 tsp powder + 1 tsp water = prepared mustard.

What is a vegan substitute for mustard?

Good vegan options are Mustard powder + water, Horseradish, Turmeric + vinegar and Wasabi.

How much should I use instead of mustard?

It depends on the swap. Mustard powder + water: Use the same amount. Horseradish: Use the same amount. Turmeric + vinegar: Use the same amount.

Recipes that use mustard

Scale it to your recipe

Enter the amount you need and the substitution tool works out the exact quantity. Or ask the chef how the swap will change your dish.

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