Chicory – All You Need to Know | Instacart Guide to Fresh Produce

What is chicory?

Chicory (Cichorium intybus) is part of the wild dandelion family. It comes in two forms. One is the root, and the other is the leaf. The plant itself is flowery and attractive, with bright blue, pink, or white blooms. But the edible part is comprised only of the roots and leaves. The roots are often baked, ground, and used as a coffee substitute. That’s likely because they taste warm, nutty, woody, and earthy. Today’s shoppers can buy chicory root in a variety of forms.

Chicory leaves are the more popular part of the plant. Chicory leaves go by many names, and sometimes, people mistake curly endive for chicory. Although chicory and endive share the same botanical family, they are different. Other names of chicory include witloof, coffee weed, and blue sailors.

Chicory leaves can be bitter, making them a common staple in certain types of dishes that originated in Italy, Greece, and Turkey. The best way to use chicory leaves is to toss them with other types of softer leaves for salads. Buying a pre-packed combination of leaves saves time in preparation. Chicory leaves can be eaten raw or sauteed with vinaigrette or stir-fried. They can also be sauteed with pasta and proteins and added to soups and stews. Some cooks will even bake or poach whole heads of chicory.

Chicory leaves can even be pickled. Their unique taste and high nutritional value make chicory leaves a year-round staple for health-oriented cooks. Too bitter? Although some love the taste of chicory, others may need it toned down. Adding a little sugar or balsamic dressing to chicory when cooking it can make it more palatable.

Where did chicory originate from?

Originally from Europe, chicory can now be easily found in North America, China, and Australia. Originally planted as a source of food for livestock, it has become quite popular with humans too. Chicory can be easily added to online carts as part of fresh produce shopping—wherever your kitchen is located.

Chicory root coffee was prevalent at various times in history when coffee was unavailable or too expensive. But now, chicory root coffee is considered a healthy alternative to caffeinated beverages. Chicory coffee has many health benefits and doesn’t cause the jitters.

Chicory leaves are also popular in a wide range of Mediterranean recipes.

What is the nutritional value of chicory?

Chicory root contains fiber, manganese, B6, and potassium. Raw chicory greens are packed with vitamins. They are low in cholesterol and saturated fat, high in fiber, and contain thiamin, niacin, zinc, and vitamins A, C, E, K, B6. Also, chicory leaves are rich in riboflavin, folate, pantothenic acid, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, and manganese.

How is chicory grown?

Chicory is often grown in the dark to keep the heads compact and white. It grows best in cool climates, with temperatures ranging from 45 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. The land in which it’s planted must be well-fertilized, and the plants need to be dug up before the first frost.

When is chicory in season?

Chicory starts to bloom in June and is at its best in September. Traditional lettuce is at its peak in the summer. Chicory is available year-round, but be sure to buy it from a source that knows their greens.

What should I look for when buying chicory?

As with many green leafy vegetables, the best chicory has crisp leaves and consistent color. Because chicory is often confused with other green vegetables of similar origins, be sure to select the right species.

Beware of chicory that has sprung shoots (referred to as “bolted”) out of the top. Shoppers should also be on the lookout for brown leaves, which can mean the plant is past its prime.

If chicory is too bitter for your taste, consider buying it pre-mixed with other salad greens. That will not only delight the palate, but it will also save preparation time.

When looking to have groceries delivered, shop via Instacart. After adding chicory to your cart, you can use the “Instructions” option to give specific preferences or directions on how to choose the best products. Shop for chicory here. 

How to store chicory

Like other greens, chicory can wilt quickly if not used within a few days. Store it wrapped loosely in a damp towel. Then, put it in a plastic bag and store it in the refrigerator. It doesn’t freeze well.

If chicory starts to become slimy, mushy, or smelly, it is going bad. Browning leaves are another sign that chicory is becoming inedible. Try to use this leafy green before it starts to turn.

What can I substitute for chicory?

Arugula is a popular alternative and complement to chicory. It is also slightly bitter and can be prepared in salads or heated in a wide range of dishes. Kale is another leafy vegetable that has a slightly bitter taste, like chicory. Watercress has a similar (peppery) taste.

If a less bitter green is needed or wanted, consider escarole or frisee.

Buying chicory near you is simple and fast

Same-day delivery will ensure that the chicory and other fresh produce are carefully selected by professionals and arrive recipe-ready. The other benefit of buying chicory this way is that it won’t be confused with other green leafy vegetables.

Many diners and home chefs today are concerned about their own and their family’s health. Because chicory is packed with vitamins, adding it to salads and other recipes combines taste with nutritional value.

Let the experts deliver your fresh produce to your home in as little as two hours. Produce delivery is a fast and efficient way to fill your kitchen with new healthy tastes, creating more time to cook and eat!

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