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This creamy horseradish sauce is my go-to for adding a bright and tangy kick to any meal. It’s wonderfully simple to prepare yet delivers a delicious balance of creamy, sharp, and herbal flavors that complement everything from roast beef to grilled vegetables or even as a quick sandwich spread.
This sauce became a favorite after I served it at a family barbecue and everyone kept asking for the recipe. It’s one of those easy recipes that always feels special without the fuss.
Ingredients
- Half a cup of sour cream: for smooth creaminess that balances the horseradish’s bite
- A quarter cup of mayonnaise: to add richness and a silky texture
- Two to three tablespoons of prepared horseradish: to provide that distinctive spicy punch use freshly grated if you want extra intensity
- One tablespoon of fresh chopped chives: for a mild oniony freshness select bright green, crisp chives for the best flavor
- Two teaspoons of Dijon mustard: contributing a tangy depth that ties the flavors together
- One teaspoon of lemon juice: to brighten and lift the overall taste profile
- Salt and pepper to taste: to enhance and balance all the ingredients freshly ground black pepper works best
Instructions
- Spoon and Combine Ingredients:
- Add all the ingredients to a medium-sized bowl, making sure to measure carefully for balanced flavor and texture. Use a whisk to combine them evenly.
- Whisk to Emulsify and Blend:
- Whisk the mixture thoroughly until fully smooth and creamy ensuring the horseradish and mustard are well incorporated into the mayonnaise and sour cream base.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Give the sauce a taste and decide if you want to add more horseradish for heat or lemon juice for brightness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Chill to Meld Flavors:
- Transfer the sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This step helps the flavors marry beautifully and mellow slightly.
One of my favorite things about this sauce is how easily it transforms a simple roast beef sandwich into something extraordinary. I remember first making this for a casual dinner and my partner declared it better than any store-bought sauce they’d ever had.
Storage Tips
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for up to a week. Stir before serving if any separation occurs. Avoid double-dipping to maintain freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce that still holds creaminess Use whole grain mustard if you prefer a more textured and milder mustard flavor Fresh horseradish root can replace prepared horseradish for an even fresher and more pungent kick, but start with less and adjust to taste
Serving Suggestions
Serve as a vibrant dip for crisp vegetables like carrots, cucumber, or radishes Spread on toasted rye bread for an easy and delicious open-faced sandwich A fantastic accompaniment for smoked salmon, grilled chicken, or roasted potatoes
This sauce is versatile and easy to modify, making it a lasting favorite for quick flavor boosts.
FAQs about Recipes
- → What gives this sauce its spicy kick?
The spiciness comes from the prepared horseradish, which adds a sharp, pungent flavor balanced by the creamy base.
- → Can I use fresh horseradish instead of prepared?
Yes, fresh horseradish can be used but should be finely grated and added cautiously to control the heat level.
- → How should I store this sauce for best freshness?
Keep the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week to maintain its flavor and texture.
- → What dishes pair well with this sauce?
This creamy and tangy sauce complements grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and sandwiches exceptionally well.
- → Can I adjust the thickness of the sauce?
Yes, you can thin the sauce slightly with a small amount of lemon juice or add more sour cream to thicken it as preferred.