Cutting of horseradish root.

People either love horseradish or they hate it. One bite of pungent prepared horseradish is enough to clear out anyone’s sinuses. Hotter than the popular Japanese version of wasabi, horseradish is easy to grow and easy to prepare. Homemade prepared horseradish is about twice as strong as store-bought versions, and lasts about 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator.

How to Prepare Horseradish

INGREDIENTS 8-10-inch long piece of horseradish root 2 Tbsp water 1 Tbsp white vinegar Pinch salt

METHOD

1. Use a vegetable peeler to peel the surface skin off of the tuber. Chop into pieces.
2. Put into a food processor. Add a couple tablespoons of water. Process until well ground. At this point be careful. A ground up fresh horseradish is many times as potent as freshly chopped onions and can really hurt your eyes if you get too close. Keep at arms length away, and work in a well ventilated room. Strain out some of the water if the mixture is too liquidy. Add a tablespoon of white vinegar and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Pulse to combine.

Note that the vinegar will stabilize the level of hotness of the ground horseradish, so do not wait too long to add it to the mixture.

1. Using a rubber spatula, carefully transfer the grated horseradish to a jar. It will keep for 3 to 4 weeks in the refrigerator.