Fresh horseradish can have very intense flavor and heat, which is why we start with a small amount — taste the sauce and add more only if desired.

Ingredients

　　3 tablespoons finely grated peeled fresh horseradish (1 oz; use small teardrop-shaped holes of a box grater)

　　1/8 teaspoon black pepper

　　Makes about 1 1/4 cups. Stir together sour cream, 1 1/2 tablespoons horseradish, and pepper. Taste sauce, then add more horseradish as desired. Let stand, covered, at room temperature at least 1 hour (for flavors to develop).