Mustard Powder Hot

When making mustard, use stainless steel, glass, or ceramic utensils and containers (aluminum gives mustard an odd flavor). For a standard thickness, use 8 parts mustard by volume to 7 parts liquid. Mustard is very hot when first mixed, and then mellows with age. Refrigeration nearly stops the mellowing process. For hot mustard, store at room temperature for 4 weeks, then move to refrigerator (or try 8 weeks for mild). An easy starter recipe is 1/2 cup regular mustard powder, 1/4 cup vinegar, 1/4 cup cool water, 1/4 tsp. salt and 2-3 tsp. honey. Mix until smooth; add a bit more water to thin, if desired. For Chinese restaurant-style mustard, mix 3 TB. hot mustard powder with 3 TB. water. Let stand 10 minutes for heat and flavor to develop.