Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) – Spicy Culinary & Medicinal Root

Horseradish is a super-easy-to-grow perennial root, famous for adding a fiery kick to sauces, meats, and fish. It is a key ingredient in Rosemary Gladstar’s Fire Cider recipe to boost immunity and is far more flavorful and wholesome than supermarket horseradish sauce.

Culinary Uses

Harvest fresh roots for spicy flavouring in meat, fish, sauces, and condiments. You can also try lacto-fermented horseradish recipes for a healthy, probiotic-rich addition to your pantry. In Germany, we grate it and mix it with grated apple and plenty of whipped cream (the real one, not the one in the spray can). This is served with “Tafelspitz which is boiled beef, potatoes and beetroot.

Medicinal Benefits

Horseradish is more than just a kitchen herb. It has traditionally been used to support respiratory health, urinary tract function, and to reduce inflammation. Rich in antioxidants and natural antimicrobial compounds, it may even have cancer-fighting properties.

Growing Conditions

Horseradish plant thrives in average soil with full sun and is remarkably hardy, tolerating both Australian cold and heat. Plant it where you want it to grow—it’s vigorous, and all root pieces left in the ground will resprout. Don’t plant it in your vegetable garden, or you’ll get a monster!

Water regularly to prevent woody roots. Dig up the roots in autumn.