Chicory - Roadside Weed or Coffee Additive?

Most of us have seen them as we've driven down the highway in summer-those flowers that look like blue dandelions. We're talking about chicory-specifically Cinchorium intybus. Yes, it's a roadside weed, and although the overall effect is generally an ugly one, the individual flowers close up may be very attractive.

Is Chicory More than a Weed?

It is not the flower we find particularly interesting. It's not even the greens, which may be eaten in salad. Of interest is the plant's substantial root, which can be sliced, roasted, ground, and added to our morning cup of coffee. Yes, chicory is a roadside weed and a coffee extender-both!

Are There Companies that Use Chicory?

In fact, some commercial coffees contain chicory. One notable example is Luzianne® Coffee with Chicory. There are other brands, as well. Some include a brief history of coffee in the United States, as well as the use of chicory in a blend.

How Did the Coffee - Chicory Combination Get Its Start?

One of these is Café Du Monde. There we are informed that first arrived in North America from Martinique through Louisiana in the mid-1700's. When difficult times led to a shortage of coffee, blending with chicory was introduced and popularized by Arcadian settlers. The combination beverage has remained popular among some even in more prosperous times.

What Does It Taste Like?

How has the flavor of coffee combined with chicory been described? That varies with the specific blend, variety of chicory, and roasting specifications. Generally, the addition of chicory is described as more acidic, adding "body," a little sweetness, yet also, somehow, imparting a measure of bitterness.

A Consensus of Opinion as to Desirability

Not everyone enjoys the marriage of coffee and chicory. However, among those who do, the importance of using quality chicory as well as coffee is highly visible in internet comments, such as at that found on the Hunter Angler Gardener Cook website. This site offers some excellent photographs of chicory root, as well as steps in its roasting process.

References and Resources:

Food Editorials - Chicory Blended Coffee

Orleans Coffee Exchange