What Is German Mustard? Sweet, Medium and Hot Styles
Short answer: German mustard, called Senf, is a family of condiments ranging from coarse and sweet Bavarian mustard to smooth medium mustard and sharp hot mustard. The best choice depends on what you are serving.
What makes German mustard different?
There is no single German mustard flavor. German producers vary the seed blend, grind, vinegar, sweetness and heat. Compared with American yellow mustard, most German styles taste deeper and less sharply acidic.
Sweet, medium and hot German mustard compared
| Style | Flavor | Best with |
|---|---|---|
| Sweet Bavarian | Coarse, brown, aromatic and sweet | Weisswurst, pretzels, Leberkäse and roast pork |
| Medium or mittelscharf | Smooth, tangy and gently spicy | Bratwurst, sandwiches, cold cuts and dressings |
| Hot or scharf | Smooth with a stronger mustard bite | Smoked meats, grilled sausage and rich roasts |
Which German mustard should you buy?
Choose sweet Bavarian mustard for white sausage or a soft pretzel. Choose medium mustard for an everyday jar that works in sandwiches, potato salad and sauces. Choose hot mustard when rich food needs a sharper contrast.
Shop German mustard and condiments at European Deli, including sweet and extra-hot Löwensenf and Develey varieties.
German mustard versus Dijon
Dijon usually has a more wine-forward acidity. German mustard often tastes rounder and earthier. Sweet Bavarian mustard stands apart because of its coarse texture and pronounced sweetness.
Frequently asked questions
What does mittelscharf mean?
Mittelscharf means medium hot. It is the versatile middle ground between sweet Bavarian mustard and strong hot mustard.
Is Bavarian mustard spicy?
Usually not. Bavarian sweet mustard is mild, coarse and sweet, though recipes differ by producer.
What mustard goes with bratwurst?
Medium German mustard is the safest all-purpose choice. Hot mustard suits richer sausage, while sweet mustard pairs especially well with Bavarian white sausage.
Does German mustard need refrigeration?
Follow the package label. Refrigeration after opening generally helps preserve flavor and quality.
Learn more from the German Foods guide to German mustard.
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