Aromatic seasoning from horseradish leaves for the winter.

Horseradish leaves, often overlooked, make a fantastic aromatic seasoning for winter! Here’s how to capture their pungent flavor for later use:

Methods for Preserving Horseradish Leaf Flavor:

1. Drying:

• Process:
  • Harvest fresh, healthy horseradish leaves.
  • Wash them thoroughly and pat them dry.
  • Spread them out on a clean surface in a well-ventilated, shady place.
  • Alternatively, you can use a dehydrator on a low setting.
  • Once completely dry and brittle, crumble or grind the leaves into a powder.
  • Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
• Uses:
  • Add to soups, stews, sauces, and meat rubs for a spicy kick.
  • Sprinkle on roasted vegetables.

2. Freezing:

• Process:
  • Wash and dry the leaves.
  • Chop them coarsely.
  • Place the chopped leaves in freezer bags or containers.
  • You can also freeze them in ice cube trays with a little water or olive oil for convenient portioning.
• Uses:
  • Add directly to soups, stews, and sauces during cooking.
  • Blend frozen leaves into smoothies or pesto.

3. Horseradish Leaf Salt:

• Process:
  • Dry horseradish leaves as described above.
  • Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder.
  • Combine the powdered leaves with coarse sea salt in a ratio of approximately 1 part leaves to 3-4 parts salt.
  • Store in an airtight container.
• Uses:
  • Use as a seasoning for meats, fish, and vegetables.
  • Add to soups and stews.

4. Horseradish Leaf Oil:

• Process:
  • Wash and dry the leaves.
  • Lightly bruise the leaves to release their oils.
  • Place the leaves in a clean glass jar.
  • Cover the leaves completely with a good quality olive oil.
  • Seal the jar and place it in a cool, dark place for 2-4 weeks, shaking occasionally.
  • Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
  • Store in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dark place.
• Uses:
  • Drizzle over salads, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.
  • Use as a base for dressings or marinades.

Tips for Best Results:

• Use fresh, healthy leaves for the best flavor.
• Ensure the leaves are completely dry before storing to prevent mold.
• Store preserved leaves in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to maintain their flavor.
• When making any type of infused oil, make sure that all plant matter is fully submerged in the oil, to prevent any mold growth.

Enjoy the pungent and unique flavor of horseradish leaves all winter long!