This pungent condiment is often used in sauces and dressings.
If you’ve bought a few too many and never got around to using them, you might wonder: Has my horseradish gone bad? How long does it last?
Look no further for those burning questions. When it comes to horseradish root, it can last 1-2 weeks in the pantry and 1-2 months if stored in the fridge.
Unopened horseradish sauce lasts three months past the best-by date. Once the sauce is opened, it lasts 1-2 months in the fridge.
How To Tell If Horseradish Has Gone Bad
When trying to determine if horseradish root has spoiled, look out for any mold, a soft and mushy texture, or an off smell. If you find any of these on your horseradish root, it’s best to discard them. If you find the presence of tiny black specs, you can cut them out. If there are large black spots, this is a sign the horseradish should be thrown out.
With horseradish sauce, the process of checking if it has gone bad is similar to other sauces. Look for any mold or discolorations on the surface. If they are present, get rid of the sauce.
Next is the smell of your sauce. If it gives off an odd smell, discard the sauce.
Finally, give it a taste. If it’s to your satisfaction, continue using it. If not, it’s best to throw it out for quality purposes.
Storing Horseradish
Starting with how to store horseradish roots, remember to store them similarly to other vegetables. Keep them in the fridge, wrapped or in a bag. Make sure that the bag or wrap has some holes to allow for air to flow through.
If you plan on using your horseradish within a few days, you can store them at room temperature. However, they will keep much longer in the fridge.
When storing horseradish sauce, keep it in a cool and dry area when unopened. It should be kept away from heat and sunlight. Once the bottle is opened, store the horseradish sauce sealed tightly in the fridge.
The Shelf-Life Of Horseradish
Horseradish root will last 1-2 weeks in the pantry. But storing it in the fridge will increase the storage time to 1-2 months.
Horseradish sauce, when unopened, can keep for three months past the best-by date. As soon as it is opened, the sauce will retain its best quality for 1-2 months in the fridge.
Vinegar-based horseradish sauces last longer than mayonnaise-based sauces.
Health Benefits Of Horseradish
Horseradish is more than an aromatic vegetable. It has a few health benefits that may compel you to eat it more often. It may help reduce inflammation as it contains the compound sinigrin. It is rich in antioxidants and may even improve respiratory health. Horseradish is a source of calcium, magnesium, potassium, folate, vitamin C, and zinc.
In Summary: Horseradish
An interesting fact about the 16th-century English word “horseradish” is that horse formerly meant coarse or rough. Radish comes from the Latin word radix, meaning root.
Horseradish can last for a relatively fair amount of time. However, be sure to store it properly if you want to get the most out of your storage time. Storing it in the fridge is the best option to retain your horseradish root. Your horseradish sauce may be stored in the pantry before opening, but put it in the fridge once it’s opened.
If you find any sign of mold, large black spots, an off smell, a bad taste, or a soft texture, be sure to discard your horseradish.
