An iconic specialty of Northern France, soluble chicory is also a beverage full of health benefits. The root from which it is made has nutritional and medicinal properties. But this is not the only reason for the resurgence of this coffee substitute. We offer you an analysis of this trend in 5 questions.
The "coffee chicory" used to prepare a very popular hot beverage in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais is a variety of wild chicory.
This plant from the endive family has the botanical name Cychorium intybus and has been used as a coffee substitute since the 17th century.
Today, the main French producer of soluble chicory is the Leroux company located in Orchies in the Nord-Pas-de-Calais. Before yielding the emblematic drink of the North, the root of the plant is cut into pieces or grated, then dried, roasted, and ground.
The medicinal virtues of chicory have been known since Antiquity. This plant was already cultivated in Europe as a medicinal plant in the Middle Ages.
Its use as a coffee substitute appeared towards the end of the 17th century in the Netherlands, before spreading to Northern Europe, England, Belgium, and France.
This ersatz had its golden age during the two world wars, when coffee was scarce. Soluble chicory then fell into disuse, except in Northern France.
In 2024, there is a true resurgence of this beverage beyond the borders of its region of origin. Chicory is emerging as the trendy drink of the moment for several reasons.
Even though chicory-based drinks are not comparable to coffee in terms of taste, they have the dual advantage of being 100% natural and caffeine-free.
The roasting and processing methods of this root are completely natural, resulting in a raw product without preservatives or added ingredients.
Nutritionally, this hot drink is particularly interesting for its richness in fibers and minerals. A bowl of soluble chicory covers 15% of daily fiber needs, 25% of the recommended phosphorus intake, and 10% of the magnesium intake. Phosphorus and magnesium are two essential minerals, one for bones and the other for the balance of the nervous system.
Even when milk is added, this beverage remains low in calories. A 200 ml bowl of chicory with milk provides only 132 kcal.
Chicory contains inulin, a soluble fiber beneficial for transit and for the quality of the intestinal flora or microbiota. It stimulates the growth of good intestinal bacteria that help protect our body against infections and allergies.
Additionally, inulin may help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood.
Another significant health benefit is that chicory-based drinks are suitable for people with heart conditions and pregnant women to whom caffeine is not recommended.
Since they are not stimulating, these drinks can be consumed throughout the day without the risk of insomnia. They can be drunk at breakfast or at the end of meals, as they are believed to facilitate digestion.
Note: Chicory is not recommended for people allergic to plants from the Composite family, such as dandelion and daisy. This is its only medical contraindication.
The enthusiasm of the French for soluble chicory can be explained by several reasons, including taste, nutrition, and even environmental factors! This caffeine-free beverage can be enjoyed at any time of the day, and its slight caramel flavor is winning over more and more people. But that's not all...
Since chicory root is produced in France, it allows for consuming local products. It offers a good alternative for those who want to eat locally and who give up coffee for environmental reasons.
Boosted by the trend of local products, the demand for chicory root is increasing. In restaurants in the North of France, chefs are not only making beverages from it. They are also incorporating this local ingredient into their dishes, dressings, and desserts!
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