Description:
Black Mustard Seed is an annual herbaceous plant grown as a major crop in north and west India. Black or Brown
seeds are rich in oil of characteristic pungent smell.
Pungent black mustard, which originated in Asia Minor, has smaller dark brown seeds; it`s important in Indian
cooking
Mustard has been cultivated since ancient times and has been an important spice in Europe since
Roman times because, unlike many spices, it could be grown locally. Medieval European courts often employed a
mustardarius, an official in charge of growing and preparing mustard.
In India, black mustard seeds are commonly toasted or fried in a little oil until they pop and acquire a grayish hue.
Frying changes the character of the seeds so they are nutty and mild.
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