Chicory Root

What Is Chicory Root?

Chicory root is a coffee-like, dark-bitter beverage raw material prepared by roasting and grinding the underground part of the chicory plant (Cichorium intybus). Fresh chicory leaf is also consumed as a salad vegetable, but the subject of this entry is the roasted root powder.

The roasting process gives the root a dark color and a bitter-earthy taste close to coffee. Since it contains no caffeine, it has been preferred especially since the 19th century during coffee shortages or by those seeking a caffeine-free alternative.

Nutritional Values of Chicory Root

1 cup of brewed chicory root beverage is nearly calorie-free (approximately 1 kcal); it contains no caffeine. The inulin fiber that is high in the unroasted fresh root decreases somewhat with roasting. Values are approximate.

How Should Chicory Root Be Consumed?

Chicory root, as a low-calorie and caffeine-free beverage raw material, can be considered part of a balanced diet; it is preferred as a coffee alternative by those avoiding caffeine.

This information is general; chicory root is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Chicory Root?

A good chicory root powder is one whose color is dark brown, whose smell is roasted-mildly bitter, and which is not clumped. Products that have absorbed moisture or have a stale smell are not preferred.

• Color should be dark brown
• Smell should be roasted-mildly bitter
• Should not be clumped, should be dry and free-flowing

How Is Chicory Root Stored?

Chicory root powder is stored in a closed container in a dry, cool place; absorbing moisture leads to clumping and loss of aroma.

Using Chicory Root in the Kitchen

Chicory root is most often steeped with hot water and consumed either alone or mixed with coffee at a certain ratio; it is a fixed ingredient in some traditional European (especially France-Louisiana) coffee blends.

Why Is Chicory Root Mixed Into Coffee?

Historically it was added to cheaply extend volume when coffee was expensive or scarce; today, in some regions (e.g. New Orleans) it continues as a deliberate choice due to its distinctive dark-caramel-like taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does chicory root taste like coffee?

It bears a close resemblance; it has a dark-bitter-roasted taste, but it does not have exactly the same acidity and depth characteristic of coffee.

How is chicory root prepared?

The roasted-ground root is brewed with hot water like filter coffee, or boiled and strained; if it will be mixed with coffee, it is usually added at a ratio of 10-30%.

Is chicory root available in Turkey?

It is not common; it can be found at some herbalists and places selling health food products.