Horseradish in a jar

Horseradish: a condiment with personality, full of flavor and a touch of spice, that finds its place on our tables alongside delicious dishes. Whether served with bacon, fried potatoes, or roasts, horseradish adds a boost of taste and freshness, being a traditional condiment that is a staple in our cuisine. Today, I will share a simple and effective recipe for preserving horseradish, so you can enjoy it all year round, even the kids will love it. Get ready to learn how to make horseradish in vinegar, a quick recipe that requires no advanced cooking skills but will surely impress with its flavor.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Storage time: 24 hours (refrigerator storage)
Number of servings: 4 jars of 380 g

Ingredients:
- 800 g fresh horseradish root
- 800 ml water
- 150-200 ml vinegar (preferably white wine or apple cider vinegar)
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 4-5 tablespoons sugar (to taste)

A bit of history:
Horseradish is a perennial plant that has been used throughout history not only as a culinary ingredient but also as a medicinal herb. Used since ancient times, horseradish brings an intense taste and unmistakable aroma, being appreciated in various cultures. In Romanian cuisine, horseradish has become an essential accompaniment for meat dishes, having the ability to enhance flavors and add a note of freshness.

Preparing horseradish:
1. Cleaning the root: Start by washing the horseradish root well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any traces of dirt. Then, peel the horseradish using a peeler or a knife. This is an essential step, as the skin may contain impurities.

2. Grating the horseradish: This is undoubtedly the most challenging step. Horseradish has an intense fragrance, so I recommend working in a well-ventilated area. Open a window and, if necessary, wear a mask to avoid irritation. Using a grater with small holes, grate the cleaned horseradish. Take breaks when you feel irritation becoming too strong. The grated horseradish should have a fine texture and an intense aroma.

3. Preparing the solution: In a large bowl, combine the water, salt, sugar, and vinegar. It is important to taste the solution, as the proportions may vary according to individual preferences. If you prefer a sweeter taste, add more sugar, and if you want a sourer taste, increase the amount of vinegar.

4. Packing the horseradish: Fill the sterilized jars with the grated horseradish, making sure to press it down well so that no air bubbles remain. After filling the jars, pour the prepared solution almost to the top of the jar. Ensure that the horseradish is completely covered by the liquid to prevent oxidation.

5. Sealing the jars: The jar lids must be tightly closed, then store them in the refrigerator. The horseradish will be ready to consume after 24 hours, but its flavor will evolve and intensify over time.

My personal tip: If you want to experiment with a milder version, you can add a few pieces of grated carrot to the solution, which will sweeten the preparation and make it more enjoyable for children. Additionally, horseradish can be mixed with various spices, such as garlic or dill, to give it an even more complex flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Horseradish is low in calories, with about 60-70 calories per 100 g. It is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Horseradish is also known for its beneficial effects on digestion and can help stimulate appetite.

Frequently asked questions:
- What to do if the horseradish becomes too strong? If you prefer a milder horseradish, reduce the grating time or add more water and sugar to the solution.
- Possible uses: Preserved horseradish is perfect to be served alongside meat, but it can also be used in sauces, salads, or even on sandwiches, adding a boost of flavor.
- How long does horseradish keep in the refrigerator? Once opened, horseradish can be stored in the refrigerator for a few months, but it will start to lose its intensity.

Horseradish in a jar is more than just a simple recipe; it is a way to preserve the flavors of childhood and add a touch of flavor to every meal. So gather your ingredients, get ready to grate your horseradish, and create a delicacy that will delight the taste buds of the whole family. Enjoy your meal!