Discover the health wonders of chicory this season
In stores, many people steer clear of chicory and treat it like a peculiar type of lettuce. However, it's worth trying because this unassuming vegetable not only offers a lot of flavor but also contains nutrients beneficial to health.
It might seem like the season for fresh vegetables is over, with stores mainly offering root vegetable reserves. However, for chicory, the season has just begun. It starts in October and lasts until April, so it's worth getting to know this vegetable better and incorporating it into your diet.
Chicory - An underappreciated vegetable
Though small, chicory is a treasure trove of health benefits. It belongs to the aster family and includes several species found in various parts of Europe and Asia.
Chicory is characterized by its elongated, crisp leaves with a slightly bitter taste. These leaves are highly valued for their vitamins, minerals, and fiber content. The chicory season occurs in the fall and winter when our bodies particularly need support, so it's worth adding to your menu.
Crunch on chicory for health benefits
The inulin found in chicory is a natural prebiotic nourishing beneficial intestines bacteria. This improves digestion, boosts immunity, and reduces the risk of constipation. The bitter taste of chicory stimulates bile production, aiding fat digestion and lowering levels of "bad" cholesterol. It supports liver function, helping the body detoxify more effectively.
The minerals in chicory, such as potassium and magnesium, positively affect the nervous system, improve memory, and enhance concentration. Regular consumption of chicory helps lower blood pressure and protects against cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis and heart attacks. It also contains a considerable amount of vitamin C, which boosts immunity, and is low in calories, making it an excellent choice for a weight-loss diet.
How to use chicory in the kitchen?
Raw chicory is great in salads. It can be combined with cheeses such as gorgonzola and fruits like pears, apples, grapes, and nuts. It pairs wonderfully with stewed meats and vegetables. Simply sauté it in butter with salt, pepper, sugar, and lemon juice. Braised chicory served with meat makes a tasty dinner side.
Chicory can also be baked, for example, in a casserole with cheese, ham, and béchamel sauce. There are plenty of options, so it's worth experimenting with this vegetable in your kitchen.
