728x90
my iParenting
From Our Sponsors
e-newsletters
Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters

new terms of use
new privacy policy
award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Home › Articles › Food A-Z › One Wild Root!

One Wild Root!

Cooking with Horseradish

By Donna Smith

Pages:  1  2  3  4  5  

Many Web sites warn women to avoid eating horseradish while pregnant. This claim cannot be substantiated. "I did a medical literature search covering the past 34 years; there are no references to horseradish and pregnancy," says family physician Dr. David Fay. "I visited many Web sites on alternative/herbal medicine (none of which have verifiable references); one listed fresh horseradish as something to avoid during pregnancy, and about 10 others omitted it from their list to avoid. The one Web site which recommended eschewing horseradish neglected to say why." If you are concerned about these claims, check with your healthcare provider.

Growing Horseradish
"I've been growing horseradish for years -- what a beautiful plant!" says Ken Welsh of Wisconsin. "I recently moved into an apartment and have a [horseradish] plant in a large pot on the patio." Welsh started the plant from seed, much like you would an avocado seed. Using toothpicks, he suspended the piece of horseradish root he bought at the grocery store in a glass of water. The root took about four weeks to sprout. "Since I live in Wisconsin, I can't leave the plant out this winter, so I'm planning on cutting it back after the first frost and bringing it indoors."

Chris Reubelt is attempting to grow horseradish for the first time this year. "They [the plants] are about 3 inches tall at the moment. I will harvest them in the fall and start a few new plants in large pots for next year. From what I've heard, they are invasive and will take over an area quickly. Also, the roots tend to give other plants growing nearby a horseradish-type flavor."

Horseradish will take over any area you plant it in, so consider that when selecting a growing spot. It prefers deep, moist soil and plenty of water. Roots can be harvested in the spring or fall.

Ways to Use Horseradish
When asked ways to use horseradish, many would immediately think of the raditional roast beef served with horseradish sauce. While horseradish compliments roast beef perfectly, this is only the tip of the iceberg!


Pages:  1  2  3  4  5  


Want to see more?