National Mustard Day, celebrated annually on the first Saturday in August, is a whimsical holiday dedicated to one of America's favorite condiments: mustard. This day pays homage to the tangy, versatile spread that has graced countless hot dogs, pretzels, and sandwiches. The celebration was initiated by the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin, which hosts a mustard-filled festival featuring mustard tastings, live music, and even mustard-themed games. Enthusiasts from all over gather to appreciate mustard's rich history and diverse varieties, ranging from classic yellow to exotic Dijon and spicy brown mustard.
Interestingly, another beloved treat, Girl Scout Thin Mints™, though not directly related to National Mustard Day, also has a dedicated following. These iconic cookies, known for their crisp chocolate coating and refreshing mint flavor, have been a staple of Girl Scout cookie sales since the 1950s. Girl Scout Thin Mints™ account for a significant portion of the annual cookie sales, proving their enduring popularity. The minty-chocolate combination has made them a fan favorite, often enjoyed straight from the freezer for an extra cool treat.
While mustard and thin mints may seem like an unlikely pair, both evoke a sense of nostalgia and community spirit. National Mustard Day fosters a sense of fun and tradition, much like the Girl Scout cookie season, which brings people together to support young entrepreneurs. Each event highlights the joy of savoring simple pleasures, whether it's the zing of mustard on a summer day or the crisp bite of thin mint bites. So, whether you're drizzling mustard on your hot dog at a festival or indulging in thin mint bites, you're participating in a celebration of flavors that have stood the test of time.
Muddy Bites’ Girl Scout Thin Mints™ and Mustard Pretzel Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 sleeve of Girl Scout Girl Scout Thin Mints™
- 1/2 cup creamy Dijon mustard
- 1 cup pretzel sticks
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Girl Scout Thin Mints™
- Crush the Girl Scout Thin Mints™ into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-lock bag and rolling them with a rolling pin. Set aside.
Create the Mustard Sauce
- In a small saucepan, heat the butter until it melts over medium heat. Add the Dijon mustard and honey, stirring until well combined.
- If you want a spicy kick, add the cayenne pepper and mix well. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Coat the Pretzels
- Put the pretzel sticks into a large mixing bowl. Pour the mustard sauce over the pretzels, tossing them gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
Add the thin mint bites Crumbs
- Sprinkle the crushed Girl Scout Thin Mints™ over the coated pretzel sticks. Gently toss the pretzels again to ensure the crumbs adhere to the mustard-coated pretzels.
Serve!
- Transfer the pretzel bites to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh mint for an extra touch of freshness and color.
Enjoy!
- For optimal texture and flavor, serve immediately. These thin mint bites and Mustard Pretzel Bites are a quirky and delicious combination that will surprise and delight your taste buds!
This unique recipe combines the sweet, minty flavor of Girl Scout Thin Mints™ with the tangy kick of mustard, creating a fun and unexpected snack that's perfect for parties or adventurous snackers.
