The many varieties of mustards found on grocery store shelves today have a rich history. They have been used as a condiment and as a medicine dating to ancient civilization. Evidence suggests that mustard seeds were used by humans as early as 3000 BCE. The plant, which is entirely edible, is mentioned in ancient Greek and Roman eras as well as in the Bible. The Hebrews used mustard for cooking; Abraham is said to have served cow tongue with mustard.
The Romans were likely the first to prepare it as a condiment, grinding mustard seeds and mixing them with grape juice. They are also credited with introducing mustard to Gaul (modern day France) in the 4th century.
French monasteries kept mustard-making alive through the Middle Ages. The Dijon region of France became a prominent producer of mustard with Dijon-style mustard emerging.
Mustards came to America in the 1700s. Immigrants brought their style with them. It was strong, spicy and brown. Gulden’s came on the market in 1862 in New Yor...