Looking for the perfect Substitute for Dijon Mustard? You’re in the right place! Whether you’re replacing it in a vinaigrette or sandwich spread, common swaps like yellow mustard and stone-ground mustard can save the day.

Whether you’re halfway through a recipe or just not a fan of its sharp bite, these 14 Dijon mustard alternatives are here to help. From classic condiments to clever pantry combos, this guide covers every occasion—no last-minute grocery runs required.

Don’t Have Dijon? Don’t Panic!

You know how it goes. You’re making a recipe and think you have everything you need on hand, and then all of a sudden you need Dijon mustard and you don’t have it. AHH!

Don’t worry! I’ve done all of the testing for you so you know exactly what to grab from your pantry (or fridge) to remedy this issue in no time! Happy cooking!

bottles of dijon mustard, honey mustard, and stone ground mustard

Table of Contents

Why You Might Need a Dijon Mustard Substitute

Dijon mustard is a staple in salad dressings, marinades, sauces, and even sandwiches. But if you’re out or need to accommodate dietary preferences, there are several easy swaps that still bring bold, tangy flavor.

Let’s look at what makes Dijon mustard unique—so we know what to replicate.

What is Dijon Mustard?

Understanding Dijon’s unique profile helps us choose the right substitute. Its creamy, tangy flavor and slight heat are why it’s irreplaceable in certain dishes—but we’ve found some close contenders.

Dijon mustard originated in the city of Dijon in France. It’s made with brown or black mustard seeds and often mixed with white wine vinegar or verjuice, which adds acidity without overpowering sweetness. The result? A smooth, creamy texture with a signature spicy kick and subtle tang.

We love it in vinaigrettes (like this La Scala chopped salad), as a sandwich spread, or as a base for sauces in dishes like our Maple Dijon Sausage and Veggies.

dijon mustard in a bowl

How Is Dijon Mustard Different from Other Types of Mustard?

  • Dijon vs. Yellow Mustard
    Yellow mustard is milder, slightly sweet, and made with yellow mustard seeds. It’s brighter in color and more acidic, while Dijon has a deeper, richer flavor.
  • Dijon vs. Spicy Brown Mustard
    Spicy brown mustard is coarser, spicier, and contains visible mustard seeds. It’s a great option for bold dishes but stronger than Dijon.
  • Dijon vs. Honey Mustard
    Honey mustard is sweet and creamy—often made with Dijon as a base! It works well in dressings or dipping sauces where sweetness is key, though it’s important to note that Dijon itself typically isn’t sweet.

The 14 Best Substitutes for Dijon Mustard

Below is a quick comparison chart to help you decide which substitute works best depending on your recipe:

SubstituteFlavor ProfileTextureBest Use
Stone Ground MustardTangy, earthyCoarseDressings, glazes, sauces
Yellow MustardMild, slightly sweetSmoothPotato salad, sandwiches
Spicy Brown MustardBold, spicyGrittyMeats, bold marinades
Honey MustardSweet, mildCreamyDressings, dips
Whole Grain MustardSimilar to DijonChunky (seeds)Glazes, vinaigrettes
Hot English MustardSharp, hotSmoothGravies, roasts
German MustardVaries by typeSmooth or coarseSandwiches, traditional dishes
WasabiVery spicyPaste-likeSushi sauces, bold dips
Horseradish SaucePungent, sharpCreamyBeef dishes, sauces
MayonnaiseNeutral, mildSmoothSauces, creamy dressings
Worcestershire SauceTangy, umamiLiquidMarinades, with thickener
Egg YolksRich, eggySmoothEmulsifying dressings
Lecithin PowderNeutral (thickener)VariableVegan dressings
Homemade Dijon BlendTangy, creamySmoothAll-purpose Dijon replacement

Depending on your recipe—whether it’s potato salad, a marinade, or a sauce—the best substitute might vary. Here’s our breakdown:

1. Stone-Ground Mustard

a bottle of dijon mustard and stone ground mustard

The top Dijon mustard alternative. Made from brown mustard seeds like Dijon, but with a slightly coarser texture and a gentler heat.
Substitution ratio: 1:1

2. Yellow Mustard

The most common pantry swap. It’s sweeter and tangier but totally works in most recipes.
Substitution ratio: 1:1 (adjust to taste)

3. Spicy Brown Mustard

Spicier with a gritty texture. Ideal for meats or sauces that can handle heat.
Substitution ratio: Start with 1:2

4. Honey Mustard

honey mustard dressing in a white bowl

Perfect for sweeter dressings and sauces. Combines sweetness with mild tang.
Substitution ratio: 1:1 (adjust sweetness)

5. Whole Grain Mustard

Similar flavor to Dijon, but with visible seeds. Great for glazes or vinaigrettes.
Substitution ratio: 1:1

6. Hot English Mustard

Sharp and hot—this one’s intense! Use carefully in bold recipes.
Substitution ratio: Start with 1:2

7. German Mustard

Regional varieties vary (sweet, spicy, or mild). Adjust based on what you have.
Substitution ratio: 1:1 (adjust flavor as needed)

8. Wasabi

Not traditional, but mimics Dijon’s heat. Soften with sour cream or mayo for consistency.
Substitution ratio: Start small and adjust

9. Horseradish Sauce

prepared horseradish in a jar

Sharp and pungent with a similar texture. Pair with honey or maple syrup to mellow.
Substitution ratio: Start with 1:2

10. Mayonnaise

Good in a pinch for texture. Add garlic, vinegar, or mustard powder for flavor.
Substitution ratio: 1:1

11. Worcestershire Sauce

Liquid form with umami depth. Mix with sour cream or mayo to thicken.
Substitution ratio: Adjust carefully based on consistency

12. Egg Yolks or Egg Yolk Powder

Great emulsifier for dressings. Add vinegar and spices to match Dijon’s profile.
Substitution ratio: Use a spoonful and adjust

13. Lecithin Powder

Best for vegan cooks! It thickens without flavor—add seasonings to match.
Substitution ratio: To texture preference

14. Homemade Dijon Mustard

Mix together:

  • 1 Tbsp mustard powder
  • 1 ½ Tbsp mayonnaise
  • ¾ Tbsp white wine vinegar
  • Optional: pinch of salt and sugar

Creamy, tangy, and pantry-friendly!

honey mustard chicken thighs on a plate with extra honey mustard sauce

Expert Tips for Swapping Dijon Mustard

When I was testing these swaps, stone-ground mustard worked the best so it’s my go-to when I want the same tang with just a little less heat.

  • Dressings need creaminess → Use honey mustard or mayo.
  • Flavor lacking? → Add white wine vinegar or lemon juice.
  • Too spicy? → Mellow with maple syrup or more fat  (mayo, yogurt, oil).
  • Texture matters → For sauces, smooth options work better than coarse
  • Color counts → Yellow mustard may change the look of your final dish—especially in creamy recipes or dressings

How to Use Dijon Substitutes

Try these ideas using Dijon mustard and the above alternatives:

  • Salad Dressings: Herb vinaigrette, Caesar dressing.
  • Marinades: Salmon, chicken, pork tenderloin
  • Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes
  • Sandwiches: Sliders, flatbreads, burger bowls

Need ideas? Try this 3-Minute Healthy Honey Mustard Sauce next. You can also check out this Fresh Herb Vinaigrette for more inspiration on creamy, tangy dressings.

salmon filets covered in honey and dijon mustard

Storage Tips

  • Store-bought substitutes should be kept in the refrigerator after opening.
  • Homemade blends (like the DIY Dijon) should be sealed in an airtight container and used within 1 week.
  • Always stir before using if separation occurs, especially in homemade options.

Dijon Mustard Substitutes FAQs

What is the best substitute for dijon mustard?

Stone-ground mustard is the closest in both flavor and texture. It’s creamy, tangy, and just slightly milder.

Can I use mustard powder?

Yes—combine mustard powder with vinegar and mayo (see our homemade Dijon recipe above) for a quick fix.

What Dijon substitute works in potato salad?

Try yellow mustard or stone-ground mustard. If you like extra tang, a bit of white wine vinegar helps balance it out.

Is there a vegan substitute for Dijon mustard?

Yes! Try using a combination of vegan mayo with mustard powder and vinegar, or lecithin powder for thickening in dressings without sacrificing texture.

There’s no need to run to the store when you’re out of Dijon. Whether you need something with a spicy kick, a coarser texture, or a sweeter twist, these substitutes have you covered. Have a favorite combo we didn’t include? Leave a comment and let us know what worked for you!

More Dip and Dressing Recipes

If you try any of these, I’d love for you to comment below. You can also tag me on Instagram so I can see it!

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