What is Chicory?

Chicory is a leafy, perennial herb which is closely related to the common daisy and dandelion. Traditionally, chicory has been used in salads, but it is also popularly used as a coffee substitute, as well as a bittering agent in certain beers and liqueurs. It can be consumed fresh or cooked either as a vegetable or in teas, syrups, and jams. As a medicinal herb, chicory is known to have a beneficial effect on inflammation and digestive health, as well as to help reduce blood cholesterol and arthritis symptoms.

History and Origin

Chicory has a long and storied history stretching all the way back to the ancient Egyptians, who used the bitter herb to season food and as a medication. In Europe, it was first popularized sometime in the 1600s as a way of flavoring coffee to stretch the supply and make it go further. It was also widely consumed after the French Revolution as coffee became more of a luxury item. Chicory is still widely used around the world today, particularly in French, Italian, and Southern cuisines.

Culinary Uses

Chicory leaves can be eaten raw in salads, and the root can be used cooked like a vegetable. It is a popular ingredient in Italian recipes and it is also a key ingredient in popular New Orleans coffee creations such as Cafe du Monde. Chicory root can also be used as a coffee substitute or can be boiled until tender and served as a side dish. The leaves can also be chopped and used as a flavoring agent in soups, stews, and other dishes.

In summary, chicory is a leafy, perennial herb which has been around for centuries and is still popularly used today. It has many uses in the culinary world, such as adding its slightly bitter flavor to salads and meals as well as being used as a coffee substitute. It can also be consumed fresh or cooked as a vegetable, made into teas and syrups, and utilized as a medicinal herb.