How to Harvest and Use Fresh Horseradish

Roast beef sandwiches just don't taste the same without horseradish! You can grow your own easily (it grows pretty much all by itself), but to harvest it takes a little care.

It's definitely worth the trouble because horseradish is not only a pungent condiment, it has medicinal uses as a diuretic and has antibacterial properties, too. It can sometimes be used to break a fever, as it causes perspiration. Horseradish can also be used externally to relieve arthritis, much the same as deep heating gels or lotions do. The leaves can be used for any of these applications, although they're milder than the root.

With all that going for it, and a high Vitamin C content besides, horseradish is a perfect backyard garden plant. Keep it contained, though, because it spreads quickly through its roots.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Shovel
• Grater or food processor
• Small jar with lid
• Spoon or spatula

1. Dig around the root to soften the ground and then lift it out, leaving smaller roots undisturbed.

2. Trim the crown one to two inches above the root and put it back in the ground. Trim smaller side roots and replant them, also.

3. Brush or knock off the dirt and rinse the root in cold water.

4. Cut a one to two inch section, scrub well and grate finely or use a food processor to pulverize it.

5. Once the root is grated or pulverized, mix it to be strong or mild (to taste) with either mayonnaise or vinegar or a combination of cream and vinegar.

6. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• Use it on hotdogs, beef roast or fish.
• Keep it in a tightly closed container for best results
• Don't heat horseradish or it will lose its flavor and pungency
• Don't touch it with your bare hands
• Avoid breathing the "fumes" as it's being prepared