Frequently Asked Questions
What is Zesty Copycat Hot Mustard Sauce?
It is a tangy and spicy dipping sauce designed to replicate the iconic flavor of McDonald's Hot Mustard Sauce.
Is this recipe similar to the McDonald's version?
Yes, this copycat recipe captures the familiar zesty taste and heat of the fast-food favorite.
What are the primary ingredients?
The sauce is made from yellow mustard, dark corn syrup, dry mustard, white vinegar, mayonnaise, soy sauce, sugar, and cayenne pepper.
How much yellow mustard is required?
You will need 6 tablespoons of prepared yellow mustard.
What brand of corn syrup is recommended?
The recipe suggests using Karo brand dark corn syrup for the best results.
Why is dry mustard included in addition to yellow mustard?
Dry mustard adds an extra kick and intensity to the flavor profile that prepared mustard alone cannot provide.
Does this recipe contain mayonnaise?
Yes, the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise to help create a creamy consistency.
How much cayenne pepper should I use?
The recipe uses 1/16 teaspoon of ground cayenne pepper, but you can adjust this to your heat preference.
How do I mix the sauce?
Combine all ingredients in a microwave-safe bowl and use a fork to mix thoroughly until the color is uniform.
Do I need to heat the sauce?
Yes, you should microwave the mixture on high for about 35 seconds to help blend the flavors.
What is the purpose of microwaving the sauce?
Slightly warming the sauce helps the dry ingredients and syrups incorporate more smoothly into the mustard base.
How long should the sauce be refrigerated?
It is recommended to refrigerate the sauce for at least 6 hours before serving.
Why must the sauce sit for 6 hours?
Chilling the sauce allows the flavors to meld and the spiciness to intensify for the best taste.
What foods go well with this mustard?
It is perfect for dipping chicken nuggets and fries, or as a spread for sandwiches.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 25 calories per serving.
What is the fat content of the sauce?
Each serving contains approximately 0.75g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in the sauce?
There are about 4.25g of carbohydrates per serving.
Does this sauce provide any protein?
Yes, it contains a small amount of protein, roughly 0.25g per serving.
How should I store leftover sauce?
Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator in a tightly covered container to maintain freshness.
Can I customize the spiciness?
Yes, unlike store-bought versions, you can increase or decrease the cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
The recipe requires 8 total ingredients.
Is soy sauce a necessary ingredient?
Yes, the 1/2 teaspoon of soy sauce adds a subtle savory depth (umami) to the sauce.
What type of vinegar should I use?
The recipe calls specifically for white vinegar.
Is there sugar in the recipe?
Yes, 1/2 teaspoon of sugar is used to balance the acidity of the mustard and vinegar.
What is the texture of the sauce?
The combination of syrups and mayonnaise creates a smooth, spreadable, and dip-friendly texture.
Can I use light corn syrup?
The recipe recommends dark corn syrup for its specific flavor profile, but light corn syrup could be used in a pinch with a slightly different taste.
Do I need special equipment to make this?
No, you only need a microwave-safe bowl, a fork for mixing, and a microwave.
Is this recipe considered easy?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy recipe that involves simple mixing and minimal heating.
Can I serve the sauce immediately?
While you can, it is highly recommended to wait 6 hours for the flavors to reach their full potential.
What is the final step before serving?
Once ready to serve, give the sauce a good stir to ensure a consistent texture after refrigeration.