Homemade horseradish packs a punch: Tear-free tips inside
Easter holidays offer a great chance to make products at home that we usually purchase from the store. For horseradish, this homemade approach is particularly rewarding. Freshly grated horseradish is significantly more intense and aromatic than most jarred varieties. Even a novice can tell the difference when it's added to a sauce or horseradish soup.
Few people realize that freshly grated horseradish can sting your eyes more than onions. People who are sensitive may shed more than a few tears while grating horseradish if they're not properly prepared. Always remember not to rub your eyes in such situations, as it only spreads the irritating substance over your eyelids.
What is in store-bought products?
When choosing ready-made grated horseradish in a jar, pay attention to the label. Many products contain not only the aromatic vegetable but also several other unnecessary and potentially harmful substances. Watch out for additives like preservatives such as sodium metabisulfite and thickening agents. A quality product should contain over 60% horseradish and no more than 1 oz of sugar per 3.5 oz of content.
How to prevent horseradish from stinging your eyes?
Even the best jarred product can't match the intense, natural aroma of freshly grated roots. To make the grating process easier on your eyes, follow these tips:
- Peel the horseradish using a peeler or a sharp knife.
- Place the roots in a bowl of cold water for 1 hour. You can add a few ice cubes or even put them in the freezer. If the horseradish has been in water, dry it thoroughly before grating.
- Ensure the room is well-ventilated. Turn on an exhaust fan and open a window wide.
- Grate the horseradish roots using the finest grater to release as much aroma as possible. After grating, squeeze out any excess water.
Add 1 ingredient to grated horseradish
Fresh horseradish quickly darkens, taking on a gray-brown color. To achieve a shade similar to the jarred product, add a few drops of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. To mellow the horseradish flavor, you can also pour boiling water over it. Transfer the grated horseradish into clean, sterilized jars.
You can also mix some of the horseradish with sour cream or Greek yogurt right away to make a tasty sauce for eggs or stuffed fish. Want it thicker? Add one or two tablespoons of mayonnaise. Enhance your Easter horseradish sauce by adding grated apple or boiled eggs.
