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Chicory
Chicory isn’t just a decorative vegetable, it’s also a hidden gem for your health. With its crunchy texture and subtly bitter flavour, chicory adds a unique twist to any dish. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating world of this winter vegetable, from its rich history and health benefits to creative ways to prepare it.
An old vegetable with a rich tradition
Did you know that chicory has been grown in Europe since the 19th century? A member of the daisy family, chicory is a cultivated form of wild chicory and originally hails from the Mediterranean region. Its rise to popularity began in Belgium in the 19th century, where it was initially prized as a medicinal plant. Today, chicory is valued not only for its distinctively bitter flavour, but also its numerous health benefits.
Seasonal availability and storage tips
Chicory is a classic winter vegetable that is in season from October to April. During this time, the stalks are fresh, crisp and extremely flavoursome. When buying chicory, make sure the leaves are firm and green, without brown spots or wilting. Seasonal availability means that chicory is often grown locally, ensuring greater freshness and quality.
However, chicory bought out of season may have been imported from overseas, increasing its environmental footprint. Proper storage is crucial to preserve chicory’s freshness and nutrients – ideally, store it in the vegetable drawer of the fridge, wrapped in a damp kitchen towel or in a perforated plastic bag. Avoid storing chicory alongside apples or pears, as these fruits produce ethylene, which accelerates the ripening process and causes chicory to wilt. Lastly, don't wash the leaves before storage, as moisture can encourage mould growth.
Healthy bitter compounds to boost your well-being
Chicory is a true powerhouse for your health. Its characteristic bitter substances, especially intybin, aid digestion and stimulate the production of digestive juices. Chicory is also rich in fibre, which not only supports gut health but also increases the feeling of satiety. Packed with vitamins (A, C, and K) and minerals such as potassium and magnesium, chicory helps to strengthen the immune system and promote heart health.
Chicory in the kitchen: versatile and creative
Chicory offers endless culinary possibilities. The key to unlocking its full flavour and health benefits lies in its preparation. To reduce its characteristic bitterness, cut off the ends of the stalks and soak the leaves in cold water. While chicory is delightful raw in salads, it can also be fried, steamed or baked with delicious results.
- Barbecue: Halve the chicory stalks, brush them lightly with olive oil and grill until lightly roasted. This enhances their natural sweetness.
- Steaming: Steam chicory for a delicate texture that emphasises its natural flavour without masking it.
- Roasting: Pan-fry chicory over a medium heat to achieve a delicious caramelised flavour. A splash of balsamic vinegar can add extra flavour.
Chicory's naturally bitter taste harmonises wonderfully with sweet ingredients such as apples or dried fruit, while savoury additions such as ham or cheese create a unique and flavourful balance. Let chicory’s versatility inspire you – experiment with it in a variety of dishes!
Recipe tip: Baked chicory with goat's cheese and honey
Ingredients for 4 people
- 4 chicory stalks
- 150 g goat's cheese
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Method:
- Pre-heat the oven to 180°C.
- Cut the chicory in half lengthways and lightly fry in a pan with olive oil until a light golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Arrange the chicory halves in a baking dish. Crumble the goat's cheese on top and drizzle with honey.
- Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes until the cheese is slightly melted. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve.
Conclusion
Chicory is more than just a healthy vegetable – it's a versatile ingredient that can bring creativity to your kitchen. Rich in health benefits, chicory works well in many different dishes and is a fantastic addition to any balanced diet. Give it a try and explore the countless ways this unique vegetable can elevate your meals!
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