What is Horseradish?

Horseradish is a condiment created from the root of the horseradish plant.  The root horseradish comes from is white with a fibrous brown skin on the outside. High-quality horseradish roots feel firm with dry roots.  Horseradish also comes in premade condiments, powdered, or dried.  It has a pungent, spicy smell.

What Does Horseradish Taste Like?

On its own, horseradish tastes strong and spicy.  Its heat is felt on the tongue and may bring tears to your eyes.  When mixed with vinegar, horseradish still tastes strong and spicy, but it does not cause tears.

How Do You Eat Horseradish?

Many people enjoy horseradish as a condiment.  To create horseradish for sauces or condiments, peel and grate the root.  Before eating freshly grated horseradish, add vinegar immediately after grating.  Vinegar balances out the spiciness of the horseradish.  As a sauce, horseradish may have a vinegar or creamy base.  Common foods to use horseradish include beef, vegetables, and fish.  Many fake wasabi recipes use horseradish because of its similar flavor profile.

Where Can You Buy Horseradish?

Look for horseradish roots in the produce section of the grocery store.  If you want premade horseradish, find jarred horseradish in the condiments section.  Look for powdered or dried horseradish in the spice aisle.

How Do You Store Horseradish?

Store fresh horseradish root in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator.  Both homemade and premade horseradish condiments need refrigeration to stay fresh.  Store powdered and dried horseradish in a sealed container in a cool, dry place.

Fun Facts About Horseradish

Horseradish has been used to treat medical ailments in some cultures.  Horseradish doesn’t become spicy until you cut into it.

Did You Know?

Horseradish is related to wasabi and mustard, which is why a horseradish mixture is a common wasabi substitute.

Recipes Using Horseradish

Homemade Imitation Wasabi

If you can’t find real wasabi in your grocery store, then make your own! Combine grated horseradish, mustard, and green food coloring.

Creamy Horseradish Sauce

Create a tangy, creamy sauce using prepared horseradish. Combine horseradish, sour cream, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate for a few hours before serving.

Deviled Eggs

Make a tangy filling for your deviled eggs. Start by scooping out the yolks of hard-boiled eggs and place them in a bowl. Mash the yolks with a fork. Then, stir in mayonnaise, prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, dill, and salt. Use a spoon to scoop filling back into the hard-boiled egg whites and top with paprika.

Easy Cocktail Sauce

Dress up shrimp with an easy cocktail sauce. Combine prepared horseradish, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, ketchup, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Chill sauce before serving.

Tangy Potato Soup

Create a creamy and tangy potato soup using horseradish. Start by making your favorite creamy potato soup recipe. When you remove the pot from heat, add horseradish and sour cream. Use a hand blender to blend ingredients until smooth. Then, top with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and parsley.