Substitute for Dijon Mustard (7 Ideas!)

Dijon Mustard Substitute

Dijon mustard is a popular condiment that originated in Dijon, France hundreds of years ago. It’s widely used in various recipes, from salad dressings and marinades to sandwiches and sauces. It has a distinct sharp, tangy flavor that can elevate any dish it’s added to.

We use it so often, we make our own Dijon Mustard recipe or use it as a horseradish substitute.

But what if you run out, your stash expired (does mustard go bad) or you can’t find it at your local store (stranger things have happened – remember the great toilet paper shortage of 2020-2021)? As mustard tends to play an intricate part in the final flavor of a dish, it shouldn’t be omitted.

Don’t worry – there are plenty of flavorful alternatives that can work as a substitute for Dijon mustard. Read on to discover the best replacement for dijon mustard.

Whole Grain Mustard

Also known as Stone Ground Mustard, Whole grain is made from partially ground mustard seeds, which give it a distinct texture and appearance. Its flavor is milder than Dijon but can still provide the essence you’re looking for. Whole grain works particularly well in sauces, dressings, and marinades.

Whole Grain is the best substitute for Dijon as the flavor profile is the most similar.

Ratio: Use it in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute in your recipes.

Yellow Mustard

Yellow mustard, also known as American mustard, is a great substitute for Dijon. It’s milder in flavor and less tangy, but it can still provide the kick of flavor your recipe needs.

To mimic the taste of Dijon, mix yellow mustard with a bit of honey, white wine, or vinegar. Start with a little bit of each and work your way up from there.

Ratio: Use it in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute in your recipes.

Spicy Brown Mustard

Spicy brown mustard, often used in deli sandwiches and as a condiment for hot dogs, can also serve as a substitute for Dijon. It has a coarser texture and a spicier, more robust flavor. While not as tangy as Dijon, it can still provide a delicious kick to your food.

Ratio: Use it in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute in your recipes.

Honey Mustard

Honey mustard is a sweeter alternative to Dijon, which can be useful in salad dressings, marinades, and sauces. You can easily make a batch of honey mustard by combining equal parts yellow mustard and honey.

Keep in mind, honey mustard will add a sweeter flavor to your dish, so be cautious when using it in savory recipes. This is our least favorite substitute when subbing into a savory recipe.

Ratio: Adjust the ratio according to your taste preferences.

Pickled Mustard Seeds

Pickled mustard seeds make a great substitution in things like salad dressings, marinades, and sauces. You can easily make a batch and later it on your sandwich or roast.

Ratio: Adjust the ratio according to your taste preferences.

Horseradish

If you’re seeking a substitute with a similar sharp and tangy flavor profile to Dijon, horseradish is a great option. Be aware that horseradish is spicier and more pungent so use it sparingly.

Horseradish recipes to consider using: Horseradish Sauce and Horseradish Aioli.

Ratio: Use it in a 2:1 ratio (and work your way up from there)

Dry Mustard Powder

If you have dry mustard powder on hand you can create your own substitute by combining the dry mustard powder with mayonnaise, white wine or white wine vinegar, and a pinch of sugar. Here’s a basic recipe to start off using. Adjust to taste.

1 ½ tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp dry mustard powder
¾ tbsp white wine vinegar or white wine
1 pinch sugar (optional)

Ratio: Use it in a 1:1 ratio as a substitute in your recipes.

Wasabi

We’ve seen wasabi mentioned as a good mustard substitute, but we have to disagree. Sure, wasabi adds spice and a bold flavor, but it has such a distinct flavor there’s no hiding the fact it’s just. not. mustard.