Ćwikła has always been a family favorite, proudly taking up the center spot at every Polish celebration: Christmas, Easter, birthdays, and christenings. This vibrant pinkish relish brings a perfect balance of sweet beetroot and spicy horseradish that my family loves, especially with an extra kick.
Funny enough, I wasn’t always a fan of beetroots. Not because of their taste, but just a childhood thing. Coming back to this recipe as an adult, I finally understand why it’s so popular. Horseradish is like our local wasabi, delivering a powerful kick that clears your sinuses, while the naturally sweet beetroot softens the heat.
Ćwikła pairs wonderfully with meats, but I also enjoy it with twaróg (Polish farmer’s cheese), drizzled with honey and topped with walnuts for a tasty twist. If you’re curious about Polish flavors, this spicy beet and horseradish relish is a must-try!
Ćwikła/Chrain/Tsvikli – beet and horseradish relish with a kick
Ćwikła, also known as chrain or tsvikli, is a sweet and tangy beet relish with a spicy horseradish kick—perfect for meat, sandwiches, or as a side.
Ingredients
- 1 medium roasted beetroot
- 1 tablespoon grated horseradish (fresh or from a jar)
- 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- pinch of salt
Directions
Finely grate the roasted beetroot. Stir in horseradish, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Taste and adjust seasoning to your liking. Serve with meats, sandwiches, or as a zesty side.
Magda's Cauldron 
Leave a comment