Recipe

Homemade Beetroot Relish

Vibrant Polish Beetroot Delight

4.3 out of 5

This recipe brings you the delightful flavors of Polish cuisine with a homemade twist. The vibrant beetroot relish, known as Ćwikła, is a traditional Polish condiment that adds a burst of color and tangy sweetness to any dish.

Side Dish› Ćwikła

European cuisine› Alpine cuisine› Polish cuisine

Preparation time

15 minutes

Cooking time

N/A

Total time

2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)

Yields

4 servings

Preparation difficulty

Easy

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Nut-free

Allergens

N/A

Not suitable for

Paleo, Keto, Low-carb, High-protein, Low-fat

Ingredients

2 medium-sized beetroots, peeled and grated (about 2 cups/470ml) 2 medium-sized beetroots, peeled and grated (about 2 cups/470ml)
2 tablespoons freshly grated horseradish 2 tablespoons freshly grated horseradish
2 tablespoons white vinegar 2 tablespoons white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

Calories (kcal / KJ): 80 kcal / 335 KJ
Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 15g
Protein: 2g
Fiber: 4g
Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1.
In a mixing bowl, combine the grated beetroots, horseradish, vinegar, sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
2.
Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
4.
Serve chilled and enjoy as a condiment with your favorite dishes.

Treat your ingredients with care...

Beetroots — Make sure to use fresh and firm beetroots for the best results. You can wear gloves while grating them to avoid staining your hands.
Horseradish — If you can't find fresh horseradish, you can use prepared horseradish from a jar. Adjust the quantity according to your taste preference.

Tips & Tricks

For a spicier kick, increase the amount of horseradish.
Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to your taste.
Ćwikła can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Serve the relish alongside grilled meats, sausages, or as a topping for sandwiches and burgers.
Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar, for a unique twist.

Serving advice

Serve the homemade beetroot relish chilled in a small bowl or as a side dish. It pairs perfectly with traditional Polish dishes like pierogis, kielbasa, or roasted meats. The vibrant pink color adds a pop of color to your plate and enhances the overall visual appeal of the meal.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the beetroot relish with a sprig of fresh dill or parsley. Serve it in a small ceramic or glass dish to showcase the vibrant colors of the relish. Pair it with dark rye bread or crackers for a visually appealing and delicious appetizer.