The Odd Couple of the culinary scene

The idea of blending cherries and horseradish seems a strange, almost impractical, recipe for a successful product. But you’ll can find it on the shelves these days.

Both Country Ovens and Wood Orchard Market have developed their own version of the concoction that apparently has been popping up all over the internet with as many people laying claim to introducing the two as those who fashioned the hamburger.

But Country Ovens president and owner Mike Johnson, who produces the product under his Cherry De-Lite label, said his was born out of his Forestville plant.

“The idea of a cherry horseradish preserve was first suggested by an employee who loves horseradish and, of course, thought the product would be awesome,” he explained. “The Cherry Horseradish is a natural complement to our line of low sugar cherry preserves. We introduced Cherry Jalapeno preserves a couple of years ago and now that flavor is complemented by Cherry Horseradish. The ingredients are simple and natural, no preservatives and gluten free.”

It is one of two products Country Ovens introduced this year with the other, Hot Fudge & Cherry Morsels, aimed strictly at those with a sweet tooth.

“This is one product we have had aspirations to develop for many years,” said Johnson. “After several formulas we came up with a delicious flavor with all natural ingredients and a little cherry juice added for a smooth flavor. Of course, it took lots of taste testing.”