What Is Horseradish—and How Do You Cook With It?

Horseradish is a divisive ingredient, falling into the “love it or hate it” club shared by the likes of anchovies and cilantro. That’s likely due to its powerfully peppery flavor, akin to a very pungent radish. But what is horseradish? Keep reading for everything you need to know about this spicy condiment.

What Is Horseradish?

You’re probably most familiar with prepared horseradish, which is typically grated, pickled in vinegar, jarred, and sold in the condiment section of the supermarket. What you might not know is that the horseradish in those jars began as a fibrous root, one that’s shaped a bit like a carrot, with edible green leaves, a light brown peel, and white interior. The horseradish plant is in the same family as mustard and wasabi, and is also closely related to some cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts.

Nutritional Benefits of Horseradish

In addition to loads of flavor, horseradish delivers health benefits, too. It contains sinigrin, a compound prized for its healing properties in the Ayurvedic tradition. Early research also suggests sinigrin may have anti-cancer, antibacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties. That’s some root! Horseradish is a source of other nutrients as well, but considering the small amount of it you’re likely to use, it won't have much of an impact on your vitamins and mineral intake. 

How Long Does Horseradish Stay Good For?

Store-bought horseradish in the jar, once opened, can stay fresh for three to four months in the refrigerator. It may lose pungency over this time, but it’s unlikely to spoil. 

Fresh, uncut horseradish root can be wrapped and stored in the fridge for up to three months. Once you cut or grate the root, flavor will quickly diminish. It’s ideal to use it within a few weeks.  Alternatively, you can grate your horseradish root and store it in the freezer for up to six  months.

How to Cook With Horseradish

Like all condiments, horseradish is incredibly versatile. It’s used to add a kick of heat to everything from bloody Marys to deviled eggs, and is also great as an accompaniment to rich dishes, like beef tenderloin and potato gratin. 

Oddly enough, horseradish is also used to add flavor to other condiments, such as mayonnaise, cocktail sauce, mustard, and ketchup. If you got a salad dressing that needs a flavor boost, try adding a half a teaspoon of horseradish to the mix.

Horseradish Recipes

If you don’t mind a little spice with your food and are ready to cook with horseradish, give these horseradish recipes a whirl.

Horseradish-Crusted Beef Tenderloin

Rich beef tenderloin pairs well with a flavorful and spicy horseradish crust. Serve with mashed potatoes for a special occasion meal, or use the beef as sandwich filling for a delicious lunch.

Horseradish Potato Gratin

Potatoes and cheese are a great duo, but if you’re not a cheese fan, this is the recipe for you. Horseradish steps in for cheese, and adds plenty of flavor. While this is hard for us to say, we promise you won’t miss the cheese.

Cod With Asparagus Hash and Horseradish Sauce

When combined with mayonnaise, horseradish can be used to create a rich, spicy sauce. In this recipe, that flavorful sauce is drizzled on cod filets and served alongside a hearty asparagus and potato hash.

Shrimp With Tomato-Horseradish Salsa

In this recipe, shrimp are accompanied by a bold tomato-horseradish salsa made with store-bought horseradish, extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh cherry tomatoes. It’s not traditional, but it is delicious!

Bloody Mary

While not everyone likes a spicy bloody Mary, those who do will love this take on the classic cocktail, which includes horseradish, hot sauce, celery salt, and pepperoncini peppers. If you’re wary of the spice level, add half the amount of horseradish and skip the hot sauce.