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Chicory
Raw chicory leaves are 92% water, 5% carbohydrates, 2% protein, and contain negligible fat (table).
In a 100-gram (3½ oz) reference amount, raw chicory leaves provide 23 calories (96 J) and significant amounts (more than 20% of the Daily Value) of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C, some B vitamins, and manganese. Vitamin E and calcium are present in moderate amounts. Raw endive is 94% water and has low nutrient content.
Some beer brewers use roasted chicory to add flavor to stouts (commonly expected to have a coffee-like flavor). Others have added it to strong blond Belgian-style ales, to augment the hops, making a witloofbier, from the Dutch name for the plant.
Chicory root contains essential oils similar to those found in plants in the related genus Tanacetum.[36] In alternative medicine, chicory has been listed as one of the 38 plants used to prepare Bach flower remedies.[37]
By cooking and discarding the water, the bitterness is reduced, after which the chicory leaves may be sautéed with garlic, anchovies, and other ingredients. In this form, the resulting greens might be combined with pasta[22] or accompany meat dishes.[23]
