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The Versatile Charm of Mustard Powder and Fish Sauce

A glance into your spice collection might reveal the presence of mustard powder. If you have some on hand, you are undoubtedly aware of its remarkable potential. This often-overlooked spice not only offers the familiar, warming sensation akin to horseradish but also possesses the unique ability to adhere to meats in dry rubs or seamlessly incorporate into rich sauces and dressings. It serves as a gentle enhancer, akin to a splash of vinegar, elevating and sharpening the taste of nearly any dish it graces. If mustard powder is absent from your pantry, consider exploring The Spice House’s medium heat offering, renowned for its ability to invigorate dishes, like Jesse Szewczyk’s flavorful One-Pot Broccoli Mac and Cheese.

Red Boat Fish Sauce: Simplicity Meets Complexity

Turning to umami, let’s examine Red Boat’s fish sauce, crafted from just two ingredients: wild-caught anchovies and sea salt. The depth of flavor achieved with such simplicity is remarkable. Founded by Cuong Pham, this family-run brand arose from a quest to replicate the authentic fish sauces of his youth in Saigon, a mission that has clearly succeeded. This sauce has become a darling among culinary professionals, authors, and home cooks alike, particularly in our test kitchen.

Fish sauce is a versatile ingredient that can enhance a multitude of dishes. It’s perfect for adding a savory touch to salad dressings, pasta sauces, and soups. A single dash can transform the flavor profile and introduce a salty complexity that is hard to achieve otherwise. For a more profound impact, consider integrating it into recipes such as Kendra Vaculin’s Zucchini With Crispy Rice and Lime. In this dish, the fish sauce emphasizes the freshness of summer squash, allowing it to shine in a way that is both delightful and unexpected.

Incorporating mustard powder and Red Boat fish sauce into your culinary repertoire can elevate your cooking, offering layers of flavor that awaken the palate. These ingredients exemplify how a few simple elements can bring a delicious depth to your meals.

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www.bonappetit.com