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Apricot Mustard

Jun 30, 2025

Apricot season is here, and while we usually turn these golden fruits into jams and pies, this apricot mustard is a game-changer for summer grilling. It pairs beautifully with grilled and smoked meats, sausages, and adds a vibrant, seasonal twist to sandwiches. With the 4th of July around the corner, it’s the perfect addition to your cookout lineup. Easy to make and packed with flavor, it’s a fun and unexpected upgrade for hot dogs, burgers, and more—sure to impress anyone who tries it.

While I left instructions for canning it to save for another time, if you don't plan to put it up for later you can skip that step.

Ingredients

4 cups (about 900 g) fresh apricots, pitted and halved
¼ cup (60 mL) freshly squeezed orange juice or water
1¼ cups (250 g) granulated sugar
¼ cup (85 g) honey
1 cup (80 g) Colman’s dry mustard powder
1½ cups (360 mL) apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon (2 g) ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon (2 g) grated fresh ginger
2 teaspoons (12 g) salt, or more to taste
½ teaspoon (1 g) ground cayenne
¼ cup (40 g) yellow mustard seeds
Fresh lemon juice and zest, as needed

Instructions

Place 2 small plates in the freezer for later testing the mustard's set.

Cut the apricots into quarters if large.

In a large preserving pot, combine the apricots, orange juice, and sugar. Stir to coat.

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until the apricots soften and begin to break down, about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Purée the apricots until smooth using a food processor or immersion blender. Return the purée to the pot.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the mustard powder, vinegar, cinnamon, ginger, salt, cayenne, and mustard seeds. Stir the mustard mixture into the apricot purée until thoroughly combined.

Prepare jars and a water bath canner with enough water to cover jars by 2 inches (5 cm). Bring the water to a boil.

Simmer the mustard mixture over medium-high heat, stirring frequently, until thickened. Taste and adjust with lemon juice, zest, or additional salt if needed. Check consistency by placing a small spoonful on a frozen plate—when it holds its shape without running, it’s ready.

Ladle the hot mustard into jars, leaving ¼ inch (6 mm) headspace. Wipe rims, apply lids and rings.

Process in the boiling water bath for 10 minutes (12 minutes if at high altitude). Turn off the heat and let the jars rest in the hot water for 5 minutes before transferring to a towel-lined surface or baking sheet. Let cool for 6 hours.

Check seals. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year. Refrigerate any unsealed jars and use within 3 months.

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