Basic Techniques

• The simplest mustard is made by combining mustard powder (sometimes called mustard flour or ground mustard) with some liquid, such as vinegar, water, beer, wine, juice or some combination thereof. This produces a silky smooth mustard. For a grainer, heartier mustard, soak whole mustard seeds in one of these liquids for two or three days in the refrigerator, and then grind them in a food processor or spice grinder until they are the consistency you desire. Mustard seed and mustard powder can be found in the spice section of many grocery stores or in the bulk section of natural food stores.

Mustard Variations

• The varieties of mustard are limited only by your imagination. Try adding dried or fresh herbs such as tarragon, thyme, rosemary or chives or dried fruit such as apricots, plums or apples. Sweeten your mustard with honey, brown sugar or molasses, or make it even spicier by adding horseradish, garlic or chili peppers. Play around with different flavors to find what you like.

Storing Mustard

• According to Helene Sawyer and Cheryl Long, authors of "Gourmet Mustard," basic mustard keeps indefinitely, and they say that "no matter what its age, mustard does not seem to grow mold, mildew or harmful bacteria." However, over time it becomes less potent, dries out, turns brown from oxidization or otherwise becomes unappetizing. When making mustard at home, it will be spicy at first, but if you let it age at room temperature for a day or two, it mellows. Mustard can also be aged in the refrigerator, although it takes longer from the flavor to mellow. Any mustard made with perishable ingredients such as fresh fruits, vegetables or herbs should be stored in the fridge. Mustard may be processed in a water bath canner, but be aware that heating the mustard and the jars may alter the flavor of the mustard and leave it tasting milder than you intended.

Mustard as Gifts

• If you're taking homemade mustard to a party, no special storage or preparation is needed other than a pretty ribbon--all mustards can be stored at room temperature for a few hours. However, if you're shipping your mustard, take some precautions to make sure it stays fresh and tasty. United Parcel Service recommends shipping perishable foods by packing them in an insulated container with dry ice and choosing a fast shipping option. Try to ship your package earlier in the week so that it doesn't sit in a storage warehouse over the weekend.