Popping mustard seeds.

[Smarmotron]

Any good tips on popping mustard seeds? It's crucial to strike a balance between not too long (they taste burnt) and not too short (most won't pop). If the heat is too high or too low you get poorly popped seeds. Does anyone have any advice?

[pixelchef]

I heat them on med-high, until they START popping, then I remove them from the heat. It usually results in a pretty good ratio of popped to unpopped seeds (I'd say 6:1)

[Smarmotron]

6:1 is admirable, but I strive for perfection.

[pixelchef]

I hear ya. I've failed you.

Afterthought: what kind of pan are you using? I use cast-iron, as I believe it distributes heat more evenly.

[Smarmotron]

Copper bottomed, stainless steel, perhaps I should try cast iron?

[alacarte]

What does one do with popped mustard seeds? Are they a garnish, a seasoning, a snack like popped corn?

[Smarmotron]

Many Indian dishes I make start with "pop 2 tsp mustard seeds".

[mjmchef]

You should sprout the mustard seeds to get another texture in your dishes. If you can find them jewel weed seeds have a natural popping effect and have the same flavour profile as mustard seeds!

[jhlurie]

How (if at all) does the process of popping change the taste?

[indiagirl]

So, indian style. Heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in a wok.

Have prepared the next few ingredients that go into the oil for the tarka. Particularly something fresh, like green chillies or even a dried red chilli will do in a pinch.

Heat the oil to smoking point, almost! Add the mustard seeds, they will start popping immediately. Yes. Sizzle. Snap. Turn down the heat. Add the other ingredients (powdered ones) in quick succession. Watch like a hawk. Powders burn fast. Add the chilli/fresh ingredient which will take away a lot of the heat because of it's size/green-ness.

I've tried to do the have medium hot oil, toss the seeds in, wait until they pop approach but it just ain't what mama taught me. So I doit with the drama. Try it. You'll see what I mean.

jhlurie, the mustard seeds are being used to season the oil they are popped in. Also, the heat, like with many other spices, releases an aroma that is wonderful.

[Carlovski]

Once popped, mustard seeds take on a completely different taste. they turn much more nutty, with a gentle warmth.

I love the things, especially in simply fried vcgetable dishes, especially potatoes.

Potatoes with Mustard seeds, fennel seeds, chilli and cumin is a particular favourite.

[inventolux]

Popped Corn, there in lies the key to this brilliant discussion