Horseradish Butter

Horseradish Butter Recipe from Denmark - European Cuisine

Region / culture: Denmark, Europe | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

Horseradish butter is a flavorful and versatile condiment that adds a kick to any dish. This simple recipe combines the heat of fresh grated horseradish with the creamy richness of butter, creating a delicious spread that can be used in a variety of ways.

History

Horseradish butter has been a popular condiment for centuries, with its origins dating back to medieval times. The combination of horseradish and butter was likely first created as a way to add flavor to simple dishes, and it has since become a staple in many cuisines around the world.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of soft butter
0.25 cup of fresh grated horseradish
1 tsp of white sugar (optional)

How to prepare

Combine horseradish and sugar (optional) thoroughly with the butter.
Use the mixture as a spread or as a topping for dishes. Store the spiced butter in the refrigerator.

Variations

For a sweeter version of horseradish butter, omit the sugar and add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with adding other herbs and spices, such as garlic, parsley, or chives.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When grating fresh horseradish, be sure to use a sharp grater and work in a well-ventilated area, as the fumes can be quite strong. You can adjust the amount of horseradish in the butter to suit your taste preferences - add more for a spicier kick, or less for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Horseradish butter is delicious spread on bread or crackers, or used as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables. It can also be melted and drizzled over steamed or roasted vegetables for a spicy kick.

Cooking Techniques

To make horseradish butter, simply combine the softened butter with the grated horseradish and sugar (if using) in a bowl. Mix well until fully combined, then use as desired.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh horseradish, you can use prepared horseradish from a jar. Just be sure to adjust the amount to taste, as prepared horseradish can be quite strong.

Make Ahead Tips

Horseradish butter can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply cover the butter with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Presentation Ideas

Serve horseradish butter in a small dish with a spreader for easy serving. You can also shape the butter into a log using plastic wrap, then slice into rounds for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Horseradish butter pairs well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, and hearty breads. It also adds a spicy kick to mashed potatoes or scrambled eggs.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover horseradish butter in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, simply melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of horseradish butter contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of horseradish butter contains approximately 1 gram of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of horseradish butter contains approximately 12 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of horseradish butter contains approximately 0 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Horseradish is a good source of vitamin C and potassium, both of which are important for overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Horseradish butter is a rich and flavorful condiment that is high in fat and calories. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Horseradish butter is a simple and delicious condiment that adds a spicy kick to any dish. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a flavorful spread that will elevate your meals. Enjoy this versatile condiment on bread, meats, vegetables, and more for a tasty and satisfying addition to your table.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time is still fresh in my mind. It was a cool autumn day, and I had just finished picking fresh horseradish from my garden. As I was cleaning and peeling the roots, I couldn't help but think of all the delicious dishes I could make with this pungent ingredient.

I had always been a fan of horseradish, ever since my mother used to make it for our Sunday roasts when I was a young girl. But I had never thought to combine it with butter before. That is, until I stumbled upon an old cookbook while rummaging through my grandmother's attic.

The book was filled with hand-written recipes, some dating back to the early 1900s. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, one recipe in particular caught my eye - Horseradish Butter. The ingredients were simple: butter, fresh horseradish, a touch of salt, and a sprinkle of chives. The instructions were even simpler: mix everything together until well combined.

I was intrigued. I had never heard of horseradish butter before, but it sounded like the perfect accompaniment to a juicy steak or a piece of crusty bread. I quickly gathered the ingredients and set to work in my kitchen.

As I grated the horseradish and chopped the chives, the pungent aroma filled the room, making my eyes water. But I persevered, knowing that the end result would be worth it. I softened the butter and folded in the horseradish, salt, and chives, tasting as I went along until it was just right.

When I took my first bite of the horseradish butter spread on a warm slice of bread, I was transported back to my childhood. The creamy butter paired perfectly with the spicy kick of the horseradish, creating a flavor profile that was both familiar and new.

I shared the horseradish butter with my family, and they were all amazed at how something so simple could be so delicious. From that day on, it became a staple in my kitchen, always ready to be slathered on a piece of toast or melted over a hot steak.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe slightly, adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor or a hint of garlic for a little extra kick. But the basic recipe remains the same, a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients.

I often think about the cookbook I found in my grandmother's attic, and how it led me to discover the joy of horseradish butter. It serves as a reminder that sometimes the best recipes are the ones that have been passed down through generations, waiting to be rediscovered and enjoyed once again.

So whenever I make a batch of horseradish butter, I can't help but smile and think of that cool autumn day when I stumbled upon a recipe that would become a beloved favorite in my kitchen. And I know that as long as I keep cooking and sharing my recipes with my loved ones, the legacy of horseradish butter will live on for years to come.