Description
The Spreewälder Meerrettich PGI is a horseradish, an herbaceous plant belonging to the Crocifere family.
Production Area
The production area of the Spreewälder Meerrettich PGI is in the southern part of the federal state of Brandenburg.
Production Method
The grounds allocated to the production should not have particular characteristics, but should be processed in depth to allow the correct development of the plant. Furthermore, the horseradish prefers a sunny position. It is usually collected in autumn and, since the roots penetrate in the soil for up to about 30 cm, it is necessary to dig deep in order to extract them.
Appearance and Flavour
The Spreewälder Meerrettich PGI is characterised by a brown external part and it is white inside. It is 30 cm long and has a diameter of roughly 4 cm. Its typical flavour is very pungent, spicy and sweet at the same time. The horseradish has long leaves of a beautiful bright green colour.
History
The origins of the Spreewälder Meerrettich PGI date back to the 19th century, when proper horseradish cultivations developed in the production area, which contributed to spread the reputation of this typical product. Cultivated since ancient times, horseradish was however known mainly in Eastern Europe, particularly in Russia and southern Europe. It was at the beginning of the 12th century that this plant started to spread successfully also to central Europe.
Gastronomy
The Spreewälder Meerrettich PGI is preserved in oil or in vinegar. It can be consumed dried, fresh or cooked, served with meat, vegetables and sauces. In the Spreewald, the Spreewälder Meerrettich PGI is grated on cooked pig's trotter, but also on beef, which is typically enjoyed served with the characteristic spicy taste of this horseradish. Furthermore, it goes very well with boiled meat and in general with any dish. It is very famous for its beneficial properties, since it stimulates the digestion and performs a protective function in the intestine.
Marketing
The product is sold as Spreewälder Meerrettich PGI. It is marketed fresh or processed, packaged in glass jars of 190 ml, 95 gr, and 100 gr and in all marketable forms. The processed product consists in grated horseradish, prepared with sauces, mustards or fruit pickles.
Distinctive Features
The freshly harvested root of the Spreewälder Meerrettich PGI contains calcium, magnesium, sodium and vitamin C. Furthermore, it has antibiotic, depurative and anti-bacterial properties, all characteristics that make it one of a kind.
