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Introducing horseradish -

Horseradish is a root vegetable best known for its strong taste and smell. It has been used for thousands of years, both in cooking and for medicinal purposes.

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Cruciferous vegetable -

Horseradish is a cruciferous vegetable, and it is believed to have originated in Eastern Europe. It is from the same family as wasabi, cabbage, and kale (among others).

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Not so glamorous -

While it may be tasty, horseradish is not much too look at. It has green leaves and a long white root. When the root is cut, a compound called sinigrin is broken down into a mustard oil.

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Why it makes you itch -

This oil, also known as allyl isothiocyanate, is what gives horseradish its strong smell and taste. It is also the substance that may irritate your eyes, nose, and throat.

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Prepared horseradish -

In the kitchen, horseradish is typically used as a condiment. It is normally grated and preserved in vinegar, salt, and sugar, as a condiment known as prepared horseradish.

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Horseradish sauce -

There is also horseradish sauce, a popular condiment that is made by adding mayonnaise or sour cream to prepared horseradish.

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Horseradish vs. wasabi -

There is a common tendency to confuse horseradish with wasabi, another strong-tasting condiment that is used a lot in Japanese cooking.

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Dose of reality - This is because at most Japanese restaurants when you order wasabi what you get is actually prepared horseradish mixed with a green food coloring.

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True wasabi -

True wasabi comes from a completely different plant and is said to have a sort of earthy taste. It is also green rather than horseradish white.

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How to use it -

So there you have a little bit of background on horseradish. Now for some mouthwatering recipes that make the most of its spicy flavor.

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Roasted salmon with creamy horseradish -

For the fish lovers out there, roasted salmon is the ultimate combination of taste and nutrition. Pair it with a crème fraîche and horseradish infusion for an unexpected twist.

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Roasted salmon with creamy horseradish - To make this dressing, simply mix a good helping of crème fraîche and horseradish into your prepared horseradish and grate some English cucumbers over the top. Delicious!

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Creamy lemon horseradish dip -

For a slightly different take on the classic horseradish dip, add a dollop of buttermilk, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkling of chives.

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Creamy lemon horseradish dip -

This dip is best enjoyed over a lightly toasted slice of bread, topped with sliced beef and fresh arugula. What better way to enjoy your lunch break?

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Horseradish-crusted beef tenderloin -

This simple horseradish rub comes together in moments to provide a delicious and satisfying crust for the juiciest cut of meat.

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Horseradish-crusted beef tenderloin -

Simply combine some prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, and fresh flat-leaf parsley to create the rub. Season it well and apply to the tenderloin before cooking.

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Quick-pickled horseradish beets -

Last but not least, a genius beets dish to be enjoyed as the main event or as a side to that roasted salmon.

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Quick-pickled horseradish beets -

Simply toss together some thinly-sliced beets with sugar, horseradish, and salt. Let the mixture stand for about half an hour and then rinse and drain before serving.

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As a tea -

Horseradish is generally considered an ingredient for food, but it is also possible to find it sold in tea form.

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Do it yourself -

To make your own prepared horseradish, grate the root by hand or in a food processor and then store in vinegar.

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Potential health benefits -

In addition to being popular in the kitchen, horseradish is thought to provide a number of potential health benefits. Some people take it as a supplement for this reason.

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Scientific backing? -

The purported health benefits of horseradish date back thousands of years, although only some are actually backed by scientific evidence.

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Anticancer properties - One suggestion is that horseradish may protect against cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancerous cells, as well as promoting their death.

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Anticancer properties -

Indeed, there are test tube studies that suggest horseradish compounds may prevent the growth of cancerous cells in the colon, lungs, and stomach.

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Anticancer properties -

It is also thought that an enzyme found in horseradish may help activate and boost an anticancer compound to target pancreatic cancer cells in humans.

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Antibacterial properties - Ultimately, more research is needed to confirm the anticancer effects of horseradish. It is also thought that horseradish has powerful antibacterial properties.

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Antibacterial properties -

Studies suggest that it may well be used to fight a number of dangerous bacteria, including E. Coli and salmonella.

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Respiratory health -

Consuming horseradish may also improve respiratory health. Indeed, people often use it to alleviate cold symptoms and breathing troubles.

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Respiratory health -

There was even one study that found a particular horseradish supplement to be as effective as a traditional antibiotic at treating acute sinus infections and bronchitis.

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To wrap up -

So there you have it, all you need to know about horseradish, the wonder root that makes for a spicy dinner ingredient, as well as an effective cold medicine.

Sources: (Healthline) (Real Simple)

See also: How to make your own vegetable patch

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