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Sweet and spicy Mardi Gras mustard always steals the show at gatherings in my house. If you crave that punchy kick for sandwiches or dipping, this creamy and zesty sauce might become your new secret weapon for parties or quick snacks.
When I first brought this to a Mardi Gras potluck, friends kept asking for the blend of sweet zip and lingering spice. Now it is my go-to for brightening up everything from sausage to veggie platters.
Ingredients
- Mayonnaise: Lends creamy body and helps the flavors cling to whatever you dip
- Whole grain mustard: Offers bursts of texture plus a mellow tanginess look for jars with visible seeds for best effect
- Spicy brown mustard: Punches in heat without overpowering pick one with real horseradish for extra zing
- Deli style horseradish: Gives a fiery touch that wakes up all the other ingredients try to choose a refrigerated variety for freshness
- Dark brown sugar packed: Brings deep molasses sweetness and helps balance the spice use the freshest you have so it dissolves smoothly
- Cajun seasoning: Adds layers of warmth and subtle earthiness taste before adding more since brands can wildly differ
Instructions
- Combine the Base:
- In a small mixing bowl spoon in the mayonnaise whole grain mustard and spicy brown mustard. Mix slowly using a spatula to fully incorporate these creamy elements without leaving any streaks behind.
- Add the Sweet and Heat:
- Sprinkle in the packed dark brown sugar and scoop the horseradish on top. Stir until the sugar no longer shows as grains and the horseradish is evenly distributed through the mixture.
- Season and Taste:
- Dust in the cajun seasoning carefully. Mix extremely well so every spoonful gets that unique blend of spice. Taste and consider if your blend needs a touch more heat or a pinch of salt.
- Chill for Best Flavor:
- Cover and refrigerate the sauce for thirty minutes. This mellowing time allows all the flavors to settle together for a smooth and lively punch.
- Adjust and Serve:
- Give your mustard one last stir. Taste again and adjust cajun seasoning or horseradish if you want extra fire or a deeper savory kick. Serve chilled or let it warm slightly before setting out for dipping.
I am never without that jar of spicy brown mustard in my refrigerator for this recipe. The day I first tasted how horseradish and Cajun seasoning play together with a sweet finish it became a kitchen staple. It even made a boring Tuesday sandwich feel like a treat.
Storage and Leftover Tips
Store your Mardi Gras mustard in a tightly sealed glass jar to lock in the flavor. It will stay lively for up to one week so you can use it as needed. A quick stir brings it right back to its original creamy texture if it sits for a day.
Easy Ingredient Swaps
Greek yogurt can swap in for mayonnaise if you want a lighter texture and a bit of tang. If you only have yellow mustard increase the horseradish for a stronger contrast. Maple syrup makes a good substitute for dark brown sugar but be mindful it will be runnier so add gradually.
Perfect Ways to Serve This
Dollop on smoked sausages or drizzle on roasted vegetable skewers for a party. It makes a unique topping for grilled burgers or sliders. I always like to offer it as part of a cheese board since those bursts of flavor truly wake up rich cheeses.
The Story Behind This Recipe
This recipe was born from a craving for New Orleans fare in the middle of winter. One taste transported me straight to a street parade despite the cold outside. Sharing that first batch with family at our kitchen table is a memory I always savor.
Adapting for Every Season
Change up the Cajun blend to suit your mood from milder to blazing hot for summer barbecues. When spring hits use locally made mustards for fresh zing. Once fall arrives add a dash of smoked paprika to bring an autumnal warmth.
Always taste before adding more Cajun seasoning since brands vary in heat. Never skip the chilling step as it lets the sweetness settle and rounds out the spice.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use different types of mustard?
Yes, you can substitute with Dijon or even yellow mustard if desired; flavors may vary slightly.
- → How spicy is this spread?
The heat level depends on your Cajun seasoning and horseradish. Adjust them to suit your taste.
- → Is it necessary to refrigerate before serving?
Chilling allows the flavors to meld, creating a smoother and richer taste for the mustard spread.
- → How long does this mustard keep?
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, it can last up to a week while retaining its freshness.
- → What dishes pair well with this mustard?
This spread enhances sandwiches, charcuterie boards, sausages, or acts as a bold dipping sauce for appetizers.