After returning home from Paris, I was thrilled to have a package waiting for me from Maille. Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love Maille mustards and it was great to add some more jars to add to my stockpile. The package contained a jar of each of the Dijon Originale, Rich Country Dijon, Cornichons and a jar of Horseradish. It was as if I had a little extension to my vacation!
If you have not been to the Maille flagship store in Paris, it is well worth a trip. Located in the Place de la Madeleine, the boutique carries an incredible variety of mustard and blends. They even have mustards on tap! You can have Grain mustard in old Chardonnay, Fine mustard in Chablis or Fine mustard in White Wine pumped right into a lovely ceramic crock. In addition to mustards, the store carries an array of oils, vinegars, dressings and plenty of gift assortments to bring home. You can spend quite a while just browsing all the different flavors that are available.
I always like to purchase at least one or two jars of their Originale that comes in a decorative glass. We love to use them for juice and cocktails when they are empty and they are fun to collect. Some of my other favorites include the Fines Herbs and the Ancienne, an old style, whole grain mustard that’s perfect on a roast beef sandwich.
Even though Maille is actually the number one brand of imported mustard in the United States, and not just imported in my suitcase, though it seems that way whenever I travel home from Paris, there are some flavors that you just can not get in the U.S.-like Celeri rave et brisures de Truffes (celeriac and truffles) and Moutarde à l’Abricot sec et Curry (apricot curry). But you can purchase many types here in the U.S. and online.
Their production process is also quite fascinating. The mustards are made by cutting the black and brown mustard grains. They are not crushed. This is done to preserve the natural antioxidant properties, then they are mixed with a blend of vinegars and white wines to create their rich flavors. If they are blended with herbs or other aromatics, they do so using only the freshest ingredients and purees.
Recently, beating out more than 300 mustards, Maille Dijon Originale won the Grand Champion Prize and Maille Honey Dijon earned the Silver Medal at the 19th Annual Worldwide Mustard Competition.
The Dijon Originale, is a multi- purpose condiment. It goes with nearly everything! It adds a smooth, mild spice to meats, fishes, sauces and vegetables. Whisked into vinaigrette or added to mac and cheese, it’s a true kitchen staple.
A secret ingredient in some apple pies, the Rich Country Dijon is made with white wine, cinnamon and ginger. It’s delicious when just brushed lightly on the crust of quiches and savory tarts before they are filled. It’s also amazing on potatoes and used as a marinade with chicken or pork. There are so many uses!
Maille Horseradish actually won a Bronze Medal at the 2012 World Wide Competition for mustards in the category that is usually dominated by U.S. producers. It’s ideal on sausages, roast beef, sandwiches and vegetables- wherever you’d want a sharp intense flavor.
The last time I bought a jar of cornichons, I actually didn’t even get to eat one! The kids ate them all before I even noticed they were gone! I had to buy them a generic brand so they could have those while I savored another jar of Maille Cornichons! No charcuterie plate is complete without them.
This is how I love to have dinner several times a month… a simple plate of cheese and cured meats, mustards, olives and cornichons with a baguette and a bottle of wine to share. It’s simple and satisfying.
If you are in NY this weekend, be sure to see the Maille booth at The Taste of France Show that will be held in Bryant Park. There will be vendors representing the many aspects of French life: Lifestyle, Technology, Beauty, Cuisine, Wine and Spirits, Tourism, Culture, Children and of course, Fun!
There will also be many events over the two days so be sure to check it out! I am looking forward to attending and while I won’t be in Paris, it will feel like it!
The show is free and open to the public. For more information, see the website at The Taste of France Show.
Event Hours:
SATURDAY – September 28, 2013
11:00am-11:00pm
SUNDAY – September 29, 2013
11:00am-7:00pm
A bientot!
Disclosure: I received the four jarsmentioned from Maille to try. The opinions are my own, and we all know how much I love Paris and Maille.
