Dennis’ Horseradish was proudly founded in 1960, but horseradish history goes back much further. Check out this list of our top seven quirky, fun, must-know details about this small but mighty root vegetable.
The common name horseradish may be a derivation of the German term meerettich, which means “more radish” or “stronger radish.” The English may have confused the term meer with that of mare or mähre, thinking that the name referred to a horse.
Worth its weight in gold
Horseradish has been around for a long, long time, dating back to antiquity.
Fun fact: according to Greek mythology, the Oracle of Delphi, told Apollo that horseradish was worth its weight in gold. Now that’s how you get a good reputation.
Have you ever wondered why horseradish is called horseradish? Is it because horses eat it? That’s what I thought. After all, horses eat horse parsley (Alexanders), so why not horseradish. But this is not the case. Indeed, horseradish is poisonous for horses. So, what has it got to do with horses?
From the late 17th century, horseradish began to accompany beef, fish and oysters. To make a wonderful fresh horseradish sauce, grate 15g of horseradish into a tablespoon of cold pressed rapeseed oil. Fold this into 150g of sheep’s yoghurt. Season with the juice of a lemon and some salt. Serve with roast beef, a piece of poached fish or spoon on to a freshly shucked native oyster.
The word exists in English since the 16th century and some dictionaries claim that the name arises from the shape of the root (which is the bit we eat). It is said that the root resembled “horse’s genitalia”. However, another probable reason for the naming of the root is that in German, it’s called meerrettich (sea radish) because it grows by the sea (though sea radish is a different plant).
Some say that the English mispronounced the German word meer and started calling it mareradish, as in an adult female horse. The word horse also used to mean strong or coarse. Eventually it became known as horseradish. Long before people ate horseradish root, it was used (as was rhubarb) for medical purposes. As far back as 1,500 BC, the Egyptians used it for ailments such as sore joints. So how did we jump from rubbing this root into the small of our backs to putting it in sauces and mashed potatoes?
Old Time Horseradish. ( And One Way It Was Used )
FAQ
Where does the horseradish get its name?
Why does horseradish have horse in it?
Is horseradish made with real horses?
Is horseradish really a radish?
Why is it called Horseradish?
Many believe the English mispronounced the German word “meer” and began calling it “mareradish.” Eventually it became known as horseradish. The word “horse” (as applied in “horseradish”) is believed to denote large size and coarseness. “Radish” comes from the Latin radix meaning root.
What is the positive impact of radishes?
Radish has benefits for liver function and cardiovascular health. Radishes are rich in minerals and antioxidants which help to reduce the risk of heart disease and lower blood pressure.
What is fresh horse radish?
Fresh horseradish is just what it sounds like – fresh horse radish root that has been peeled, grated, or finely chopped to use for recipes like steak au poivre or potatoes Lyonnaise. Its flavor is sharp with an unforgettable heat that lingers on your tongue long after you’ve eaten it.
What is the difference between horse radish and horseradish?
Their difference lies mainly in how they are prepared, their flavor profile, and their nutritional value. Prepared horseradish is made by blending freshly grated horse radish root with vinegar, salt, and other spices such as mustard or garlic.