Horseradish sauce is a tangy and creamy condiment that adds a punch of flavor to any dish. Whether you’re serving it alongside roast beef, using it as a dip for vegetables, or spreading it on a sandwich, this quick and easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s quick to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients.
- Customizable to your preferred level of heat and tanginess.
- Versatile and pairs beautifully with meats, seafood, and even roasted vegetables.
- No preservatives or additives—just fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Prepared horseradish
- Sour cream
- Mayonnaise
- Dijon mustard
- White vinegar
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Sugar (optional)
Directions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the prepared horseradish, sour cream, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
- Add the white vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and well-blended.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning. If you prefer a touch of sweetness, mix in a small amount of sugar.
- Transfer the sauce to a serving dish or an airtight container for storage.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: Makes approximately 1 cup of sauce, serving about 6-8 people as a condiment.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: None required
Variations
- Spicier Version: Add extra prepared horseradish or a dash of hot sauce.
- Herbaceous Twist: Stir in finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor.
- Low-Calorie Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and mayonnaise.
- Vegan-Friendly: Substitute the mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store the horseradish sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended as the texture may change upon thawing.
- Reheating: This sauce is served cold or at room temperature; no reheating is required.
FAQs
What is horseradish sauce made of?
Horseradish sauce is typically made of prepared horseradish, sour cream, mayonnaise, mustard, vinegar, and seasonings.
Can I use fresh horseradish instead of prepared?
Yes, but you’ll need to grate and prepare it yourself by mixing it with vinegar. Fresh horseradish is more pungent than prepared.
How long does homemade horseradish sauce last?
Stored properly in the refrigerator, it can last up to one week.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, simply use dairy-free sour cream and mayonnaise alternatives.
What dishes pair well with horseradish sauce?
It’s perfect with roast beef, prime rib, smoked salmon, and even roasted vegetables.
Can I adjust the level of heat?
Absolutely! Increase or decrease the amount of prepared horseradish to suit your taste.
Why does horseradish lose its spiciness over time?
Horseradish loses its potency when exposed to air and over time, so use it fresh for maximum flavor.
Is horseradish sauce healthy?
Horseradish sauce can be part of a healthy diet, especially if made with light or low-fat ingredients.
Can I freeze horseradish sauce?
Freezing is not ideal because the creamy texture may separate when thawed.
Is it gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check the labels of prepared ingredients to ensure there is no cross-contamination.
Conclusion
Horseradish sauce is a simple yet flavorful condiment that can elevate your meals to new heights. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can create a sauce that’s creamy, tangy, and just the right amount of spicy. Try it with your favorite dishes and watch it become a household favorite!
PrintHorseradish Sauce Recipe
A creamy and tangy sauce with a zesty kick, this horseradish sauce is perfect for pairing with roasted meats, sandwiches, or seafood. It’s easy to make and full of bold flavor!
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish (or more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine sour cream, prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, and white vinegar. Stir until well mixed.
- Add salt, black pepper, and lemon juice (if using). Mix again.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning or horseradish amount based on your preference.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish with fresh chives before serving, if desired.
Notes
- For a stronger horseradish flavor, increase the amount of prepared horseradish.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
- This sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.