About National Mustard Day
Get ready to add a little zing to your August, because the first Saturday of the month marks a truly special occasion for condiment lovers everywhere: National Mustard Day! This flavorful holiday is a vibrant tribute to one of the world's most ancient and beloved condiments, bringing together enthusiasts to celebrate all things mustard.
National Mustard Day
National Mustard Day is celebrated annually on the first Saturday in August. It all started with a passion for mustard and a dash of heartbreak. The holiday was originated by the National Mustard Museum, located in Middleton, Wisconsin, U.S.A. Its founder, Barry Levenson, a former Assistant Attorney General of Wisconsin, was reportedly inspired to start collecting mustards after his favorite baseball team, the Boston Red Sox, lost the World Series in 1986. He heard a voice (from the mustards, no less!) telling him to collect them, and the rest is history. The museum officially opened in 1992, and the first National Mustard Day celebration took place in 1991.
The National Mustard Museum typically hosts a lively street festival to commemorate the day, complete with mustard sampling, hot dogs, brats, live music, and family-friendly games. It's a fantastic opportunity to explore the incredible diversity of mustard, from the mild and tangy to the fiery and robust.
Did you know? Mustard seeds were found in Stone Age settlements, and ancient Egyptians even buried King Tut with a supply of mustard!
Did you know? The word "mustard" is derived from "mosto," or "grape must," an unfermented wine that French monks mixed with mustard seeds.
Did you know? Pope John XXII of Avignon was such a mustard enthusiast that he created a special position: Grand Moustardier du Pape, or the Grand Mustard-Maker, and appointed his nephew to the role!
Did you know? There are over 5,000 different types of mustard worldwide, and the National Mustard Museum boasts a collection of over 6,000 varieties from all 50 states and more than 70 countries!
Did you know? Mustard plants are relatives of broccoli, as they both belong to the Brassica family.
How to Celebrate National Mustard Day
You don't have to travel to Wisconsin to join the celebration! There are countless ways to honor this versatile condiment right in your own kitchen or community:
Explore New Varieties: Head to your local grocery store or specialty food shop and pick up a mustard you've never tried before. From honey mustard to spicy brown, Dijon to whole grain, the possibilities are endless!
Host a Mustard Tasting: Invite friends and family over for a blind tasting of different mustards. Provide various dippers like pretzels, sausages, or raw vegetables, and see which one reigns supreme.
Get Creative in the Kitchen: Mustard is more than just a hot dog topping! Use it in marinades for meats, whisk it into salad dressings, add a spoonful to your mac and cheese, or even try unique recipes like mustard-glazed salmon.
Learn About Its History: Dive deeper into the fascinating history of mustard. You might be surprised to learn about its medicinal uses in ancient times or its role in different culinary traditions around the world.
Visit the National Mustard Museum: If you're ever in Middleton, Wisconsin, make a pilgrimage to the National Mustard Museum. It's a truly unique experience for any condiment aficionado.
Share on Social Media: Show off your mustard creations and celebrations on social media using #NationalMustardDay to connect with other mustard enthusiasts!
Whether you prefer a classic yellow or an exotic artisanal blend, National Mustard Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate the spicy, tangy, and utterly delicious world of mustard. So, slather it on, mix it in, and enjoy every zesty bite!
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