H is for ... Horseradish

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A to Z of Herbs and Spices - Horseradish

Welcome to the eighth in a series looking at herbs and spices. This time I am looking at horseradish, the perennial root that packs a powerful punch.

I hope to be able to introduce you to a range of spices you may use frequently, but didn't know much about, as well as new spices you may have never heard of.
















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Introducing... Horseradish

Great Raifort, Horse Plant, Mountain Radish, Red cole

Syn: Armoracia rusticana
Family: Cruciferae
horseradish plant




Horseradish has its origins in the Mediterranean region. By the 16th century it was growing wild in Britain. It is quite prolific and if its growth is not controlled it will take over. New plants can grow from the smallest bit of root left in the ground.

It is a hardy perennial that is related to both the mustard plant and the wallflower.

The root is long and tapering, similar to a parsnip.

We have a "family heirloom" horseradish growing in our herb garden. It was taken from Paul's parents' garden. They in turn took their original rootstock from his maternal grandparents' garden over 20 years ago.





Culinary Uses of Horseradish






Horseradish is a very strong and potent gastric stimulant. It goes very well with rich and fatty meats.

It is most commonly used as a horseradish sauce mixed with vinegar and sugar, though cream, soured cream, and wine are also frequently uses bases for this condiment.

It is served frequently as an accompaniment to roast beef dinners.





The Encyclopedia of Herbs and Spices

by Elisabeth Lambert Ortiz

The Encyclopedia of Herbs, Spices, & Flavorings

Amazon Price: $24.95 (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

This is one of the most comprehensive herb and spice reference books I have ever seen. It is a book you will open time and time again for the information, the photographs, and the recipes.

Family horseradish sauce recipe

1 tsp white vinegar
1/2 tsp mustard powder
1/2 tsp sugar
2 T double cream (whipping cream)
2 T freshly grated horseradish

Blend mustard and sugar together with cream. Add grated horseradish and vinegar. Mix well. Allow to stand for 1/2 hour before using.

Medicinal Uses of Horseradish












Horseradish contains more vitamin C than orange or lemon. It is a gastric stimulant so useful in digesting fatty foods and is also good for correcting imbalances in the digestive system.

Bruised horseradish was once used to ease the pain of arthritis, gout, and chillblains and may help to ease the pain of rheumatism by increasing blood flow to the affected joints.

It has been shown to have antimicrobial effects against some organisms. It is also a good expectorant and can aid in soothing respiratory problems.





Horseradish

Horseradish, Plate 415 from

you can buy this and other posters at

Buy your horseradish here

When buying herbs or spices online, be sure to buy from a reputable source.

Please discuss with a qualified medical herbalist before using horseradish or any other herb for medicinal purposes.
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More information about Horseradish

Horseradish
information about horseradish
Horseradish Information Council - tips on horseradish, horseradish sauce, horseradish recipes.
Horseradish information, including the secret ingredient in cocktail sauce, today%uFFFDs seafood recipe, chicken recipe and beef recipe. More about horseradish sauce, with horseradish recipe selections.
Spice Pages: Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana)
Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana G. M. Sch.)

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Tell me your spice stories

  • nielpet Jun 22, 2011 @ 5:28 am | delete
    Horse radish is an excellent remedy for gout related problems. With Vitamin C, this helps to combat Uric Acid buildup and ensures less pain in the joints. Thanks for a great coverage of this important herb.
  • greenspirit Dec 27, 2010 @ 4:42 pm | delete
    I grow Horseradish on my allotment. It grows wild in the damp areas, but is so hard to dig up and harvest, so I took some root and planted in huge deep planters. That's my lazy person way of getting Horseradish .

    As a bit of a part time asthma sufferer, I see that it is good for the respiritory system. That must be why I love it so much.
  • Nov 30, 2010 @ 1:28 am | delete
    excelent coverage about herbs
  • Irenemaria Nov 1, 2010 @ 4:03 pm | delete
    A couple of slices of horseradish in the jar of pickles....no mold
  • jptanabe Nov 1, 2010 @ 2:58 pm | delete
    Oh yes, horseradish is a good one! Very tasty.
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About the Author

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A to Z of Herbs and Spices

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by

NanLT

NanLT has been writing at Squidoo since January 2009 and in that time has established herself as an authority on such diverse topics as home cooking and... more »

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Horseradish Root 

for your garden

Horseradish Potted - Will last a lifetime in the garden!

Amazon Price: $6.00 (as of 06/01/2012)Buy Now

Cooking with NanLT 

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