horseradish

     

Horseraish (Armoracia rusticana, syn. Cochlearia armoracia) is a perennial plant of the Brassicaceae family, which includes mustard, wasabi, and cabbages. The plant is probably native to southeastern Europe and western Asia, but is popular around the world today. It grows up to 1.5 metres (five feet) tall and is mainly cultivated for its large white, tapered root.

Trivia about horseradish

  • This "equine" herb's roots are grated & preserved in vinegar to prevent loss of its chemical bite
  • Pungent ground up armoracia rusticana roots used as a condiment
  • Condiment seen here before being ground for use:
  • This sauce made from a root is a traditional accompaniment to prime rib
  • Recipes for cocktail sauce often call for the "prepared" type of this pungent root
  • Creole mustard is usually flavored with this pungent root that's used as a condiment
  • Often served on Passover, this pungent root is (luckily) not made from the animal in its name
  • This bitter herb has nothing to do with equines; the first part of the word just denotes "big" or "strong"