By Ellie Downing

Across the globe Chicory and Endive are often mistakenly identified as one another however, these bitter greens simply belong to the same genus, Cichorium, and are unique in their own way. Distinctions between the many varieties can be made by broad and narrow leaves, curly and non-curly leaves, and heading and non-heading types. Names of such varieties include radicchio, Catalogna, Sugarloaf, Curly Endive and so on. Believed to have been cultivated over 5000 years ago, chicory and endive were originally used for medicinal purposes by the Greeks and Egyptians. Today, the main growing countries are Belgium, France, Holland, and Germany.

Chicory (sometimes called Curly Endive) is identified by its green leafy head, with darker outer leaves surrounding paler leaves as you move towards the center. Chicory, available year round, is best used when young and is often enjoyed as a blanched side vegetable or salad. Chicory is an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, folate, and vitamin A.

Endive, sometimes referred to as Belgium Endive or Witloof, is slightly less bitter than Chicory and can be identified by its tightly packed teardrop-shaped head. A creamy yellow lines the edge of the otherwise bright white leaves. Endive is grown in complete darkness to prevent it from turning green, which would release its bitter compounds. Endive’s favorable crisp texture and cupped shape make it especially nice for grilling, stuffing or enjoying as a salad. It is appreciated for its good source of beta-carotene, which acts as an effective immune system booster much needed during the winter months. In addition, an average-sized head of endive provides more than 50% the amount of potassium found in a banana. Endive is best enjoyed between November and the end of April.

Both chicory and endive’s crunchy, bitter qualities provide a fresh twist to a salad and pair wonderfully with other greens of the same family. Adding a sprinkling of dried cranberries or sliced pear and pungent cheese make an especially balanced and flavorful salad.