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Welcome to the next installment of my Meet the Spice Blend series, where I'm sharing the inspiration for, back stories of, and uses for my ever-expanding collection of small batch, handcrafted spice blends. Next up, let's meet Dijon-Vu All Over Again (formerly called Dijon Mustard Spice Blend)!!
The Inspiration - Dijon Mustard
Dijon-Vu All Over Again (formerly known as Dijon Mustard Spice Blend) is a captivating blend that pays homage to - wait for it - the delectable flavors of Dijon mustard. A combination of brown mustard seeds, kosher salt infused with white wine vinegar, onion, garlic, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary, Dijon-Vu All Over Again is a versatile and irresistible blend that can be used to elevate any dish. Sprinkle it onto roasted vegetables, rub it onto grilled meats, or incorporate it into marinades and dressings for an unparalleled taste experience that transports your palate to the enchanting flavors of France.
The Flavor Profile - Dijon-Vu All Over Again
The flavor profile of Dijon-Vu All Over Again is a symphony of enticing tastes that dance across the palate. The dominant notes of brown mustard seeds add a distinctive pungency and earthy depth, creating a robust foundation for the blend. The kosher salt infused with white wine vinegar brings a delightful tanginess that harmonizes with the mustard seeds, imparting a subtle yet refreshing zing. The onion and garlic contribute a savory umami essence, enhancing the overall complexity of flavors. A subtle heat from the black pepper weaves its way through, providing a gentle kick of spiciness. The delicate aromatic presence of thyme adds a floral touch, while the fragrant rosemary lends a woody and resinous quality, perfectly rounding out the blend. Together, these carefully selected ingredients create a rich and well-balanced flavor profile that elevates every dish it graces, turning ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary experiences.
Versatility in the Kitchen - How to Use Dijon-Vu All Over Again
Dijon-Vu All Over Again can be used in so many ways. Here are some suggestions:
Marinades: Create a tantalizing marinade by combining Dijon-Vu All Over Again with olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey. Use it to marinate chicken, pork, or tofu for a few hours before grilling or baking for a burst of flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Sprinkle Dijon-Vu All Over Again generously over a medley of roasted vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower. Toss them with olive oil, spread them on a baking sheet, and roast until tender and golden for a side dish that bursts with herbaceous and savory goodness.
Grilled Meats: Rub Dijon-Vu All Over Again onto steaks, lamb chops, or chicken breasts before grilling to infuse them with an aromatic and slightly tangy flavor. The blend's combination of herbs and mustard seeds complements the smoky char from the grill perfectly.
Soups and Stews: Add a teaspoon or two of Dijon-Vu All Over Again to your favorite soups or stews to enhance their depth of flavor. It works particularly well in lentil soups, bean stews, or even creamy vegetable-based soups.
Salad Dressings: Dijon-Vu All Over Again lends a familiar yet exciting flavor to a homemade vinaigrette. Check out my formula for a Foolproof Basic Vinaigrette here. Drizzle it over fresh greens, roasted vegetables, or even as a marinade for chicken or shrimp salads.
Roast Chicken: Before roasting a whole chicken, rub Dijon-Vu All Over Again all over the skin and inside the cavity for a mouthwatering flavor infusion. The mustard seeds and herbs will create a beautiful crust and impart a delightful aroma to the meat.
Nuts: Toss some almonds, walnuts, or cashews in olive oil and then roast in the oven at 350F until just fragrant. Transfer nuts to a large mixing bowl and toss with some Dijon-Vu All Over Again. The nuts will crisp up as they cool, and they make an excellent mid-afternoon snack.
Goat Cheese: Roll a small log of fresh goat cheese in some Dijon-Vu All Over Again for a fun addition to your next charcuterie board.
Remember, these suggestions are just the beginning. Feel free to get creative and experiment with the blend in various dishes to explore its full potential and make each meal a memorable one!
A Bite of Good Recipes that use Dijon-Vu All Over Again
Looking for some more concrete guidance on how to use Dijon-Vu All Over Again? Check out these A Bite of Good recipes!
Pancetta and Brussels Sprouts Mac & Cheese - If you're looking for a dish that tastes like literal magic, then look no further.
One-Pot Chicken Thighs with Kale, Apples, and Winter Squash - This is one of those recipes that you'll return to again and again.
Ready to get your own Dijon-Vu All Over Again? Get it here.
