Mustard seeds, light

White mustard seed likely originated in the Mediterranean region, but various cultivated varieties are also grown in Northern, Central, and Southern Europe. Related species include S. cernua (syn. Brassica cernua) from China and Eruca sativa (syn. Brassica eruca) from Eastern Europe and Central Asia. Edible mustard is a popular ingredient in Western Europe (and the USA) for cooked or grilled meats and is also frequently used in sauces. Because mustard seeds contain emulsifiers, they improve not only the flavor but also the stability of emulsified sauces. Mustard seeds are often added to pickled vegetables (such as gherkins).