For years, I’ve admired a gorgeous blue flower that appears by the roadside during the summer months. At first glance, it seems like an ordinary weed. Yet, when in full bloom, its hue matches that of a Tanzanite gem. To my astonishment, this seemingly mundane plant is the source of chicory coffee.
Friends, I was blown away! The brew it produces is delightful. Such a revelation.
It’s like stumbling upon a hidden treasure, but I’m eager for everyone to be in on this secret. So, let me dive right in!
Understanding Chicory
Chicory blossoms from mid-summer until the first frost. It belongs to the aster family (Asteraceae) and has several names, including blue sailors, coffeeweed, cornflower (don’t mix it up with Bachelor’s Buttons), Italian dandelion, and succory.
You might recognize it from the renowned Cafe’ du Monde in New Orleans, where a mix of coffee and chicory is served. Ever wondered why chicory is mixed with coffee? The blend has intriguing ties to the American Civil War and the Great Depression.
Habitat of Chicory
Originally from Europe, central Russia, and western Asia, chicory has spread worldwide. In North America, it thrives in zones 3-9.
It grows remarkably well on roadsides, sidewalks, and gravely spots, or really any challenging terrain you can imagine. The plant stands between 12-24 inches tall, showcasing blue petals that have a slight fringe. Its ground-level leaves resemble dandelions, making it easier to spot on sunny days. However, they become less visible when the weather is overcast, or as the day wanes, as the flowers tend to close.
Much like dandelions, chicory regrows from its root. If, for any reason, you want to get rid of them (did I tell you about the fantastic coffee?), remember that these plants are as resilient as dandelions. Rather than tackling them yourself, give me a ring, and I’ll come extract them for a morning brew!
Besides making a drink akin to coffee, chicory has healing properties.
Chicory’s Medicinal Qualities
Based on the Peterson Field Guide to Medicinal Plants & Herbs, its root, when mixed with water, can act as a diuretic or a laxative. It’s employed in homeopathic treatments for liver and gallbladder issues, can decrease blood sugar, and has mild sedative effects.
Chicory root extracts have shown antibacterial traits, and their tinctures offer anti-inflammatory benefits. You can even craft your own tinctures at home.
Culinary Uses of Chicory
Beyond its roots that yield a delectable coffee alternative, chicory’s leaves can be a salad component or cooked. The underground white leaves make a fresh salad addition in spring, while the outer green ones can be boiled for a brief 5-10 minutes and eaten. As for me, I’m mostly enthralled by its potential as a coffee replacement!
Creating Chicory Coffee
To prepare a drink, chicory roots need drying, roasting, and grinding. I went on an adventurous quest to gather roots and roast them.
The five-step process involved locating the chicories, cleaning and chopping the roots, roasting them, grinding the roasted parts, and finally brewing the grounds. The result? A rich, aromatic cup of chicory coffee that astounded my senses.
Chicory Coffee: The Flavor Profile
As for taste, when unsweetened, it mirrored strong black coffee, enriched with subtle notes of mocha and caramel. By adjusting the chicory quantity, you can find your perfect brew. I enhanced my cup with a hint of stevia and Coffee Mate, which transformed it into a luxurious café experience.
Chicory Coffee’s Advantages
Besides the earlier listed therapeutic traits, chicory roots may aid digestion due to their inulin content. Some studies indicate potential benefits like better bowel movement, enhanced blood sugar regulation, and anti-inflammatory properties.
From a survivalist’s perspective, if resources deplete and you’re out of green coffee beans, chicory becomes invaluable – both for personal use and trade. Moreover, mixing chicory with your regular coffee can make it last longer. Keep in mind, however, the resulting drink might not be caffeine-free. Being naturally devoid of caffeine, chicory coffee can be your late-night comfort drink. For those desiring a coffee-like flavor without the caffeine hit, this might be your dream find.
A Few Words of Caution
While chicory coffee is marvelous, there are potential side effects, including allergic reactions for some individuals. It’s best to consult a doctor if you’re pregnant, nursing, or unsure about consuming chicory.
Why Survivalists Should Embrace Chicory
Chicory is a wonderful addition to any survival plan, thanks to its nutritional content and multifaceted medicinal advantages. It not only provides a coffee substitute but also offers edible leaves for salads or cooked dishes. Its long shelf life and myriad health benefits make it an intelligent choice for those preparing for emergencies.
For those not keen on wild foraging, cultivating chicory from seeds in an edible or medicinal garden might be a viable alternative.
Closing Thoughts on Chicory Coffee
I wholeheartedly endorse seeking out this splendid plant. It’s remarkable how many nature-based solutions we’ve overlooked through the ages. Foraging is a skill we should all aspire to master.
This coffee substitute is plentiful, free, scrumptious, and a fantastic trading item. Give it a try now, but remember to save some for later!
Have you ventured into the realm of chicory-root coffee? Share your experiences!
