Best Mustard Substitutes
Out of mustard? These are the best mustard substitutes you can use in cooking and baking — ranked by how well they work in most recipes. Whether you need a dairy-free swap, a pantry staple alternative, or just ran out mid-recipe, one of these 4 options will have you covered.
Mustard Substitution Options
Horseradish
Use instead of Prepared Mustard
Horseradish provides a sharp, pungent heat similar to mustard's bite. Use 1:1 in sandwiches, dressings, and sauces. It's more intense and lacks mustard's vinegary tang — a pinch of vinegar helps bridge the gap.
Dijon Mustard
Use instead of Prepared Mustard
Dijon is smoother and slightly more complex than yellow mustard with a sharper, more refined flavor. A direct 1:1 swap in dressings, marinades, and sauces — it actually elevates most recipes.
Tahini + ½ tsp Lemon Juice
Use instead of Prepared Mustard
Tahini provides creaminess and a nutty bitterness, and lemon juice adds the acidity mustard provides. Use in dressings and marinades where mustard is an emulsifier. Not a heat substitute, but it works for texture and tang.
Mustard Powder + 1 tsp Water + 1 tsp Vinegar
Use instead of Prepared Mustard
Mix dry mustard powder with water and vinegar to create a prepared mustard substitute. Let it sit 5–10 minutes to allow the flavor to bloom. Use 1:1 — dry mustard is more pungent, so this ratio is calibrated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substitute for mustard?
The best substitutes for mustard are Horseradish, Dijon Mustard, Tahini + ½ tsp Lemon Juice. Horseradish provides a sharp, pungent heat similar to mustard's bite. Use 1:1 in sandwiches, dressings, and sauces. It's more intense and lacks mustard's vinegary tang — a pinch of vinegar helps bridge the gap.
Can I use Dijon Mustard instead of mustard?
Dijon is smoother and slightly more complex than yellow mustard with a sharper, more refined flavor. A direct 1:1 swap in dressings, marinades, and sauces — it actually elevates most recipes.
How do I substitute mustard in baking?
When substituting mustard in baking, it's important to match the ratio carefully. Check the individual substitution notes above for exact measurements and tips for each swap.