Chrain
Chrain is a vibrant, pungent relish made primarily from grated beets and horseradish, often seasoned with vinegar, sugar, and salt. It originates from Eastern European Jewish cuisine and is a staple condiment, particularly during Passover and with gefilte fish. Its striking ruby color comes from the beets, while the horseradish provides a signature, sinus-clearing heat.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This relish is low in calories, fat, and protein, with most of its carbohydrates coming from the natural sugars in beets and any added sugar. It is a good source of vitamin C from the horseradish and contains beneficial nitrates and antioxidants from the beets, with a typical serving containing around 15-30 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 15 kcal |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Carbs | 3 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 180 mg |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Potassium | 70 mg |
| Folate | 10 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.1 mg |
| Iron | 0.3 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 10 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.02 mg |
Per 2 tablespoons (30 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, chrain is deeply symbolic in Jewish tradition, representing the bitterness and harshness of slavery in Egypt during the Passover Seder. Nutritionally, the combination of beets and horseradish creates a potent source of anti-inflammatory and detoxifying compounds.
