What Is Frisee?
Frisée, also known as curly endive, is a leafy green belonging to the chicory family, characterized by its distinctive frilly, deeply notched leaves. It features a pale-yellow to green color, with the inner leaves being paler and less bitter than the outer, darker ones. This popular salad green adds a unique texture and flavor to various dishes.
"The pale inner leaves of frisée offer a milder bitterness, making them ideal for those new to chicories, while the darker outer leaves provide a more robust, peppery bite."
What Does Frisee Taste Like?
Frisée delivers a refreshing and assertive bitterness, balanced by a subtle earthiness that invigorates the palate.
- Taste
- Bitter, Peppery, Earthy, Slightly nutty
- Texture
- Crisp, Crunchy, Tender (inner leaves)
- Aroma
- Fresh, Grassy
- Acidity
- Low
Technical Metrics
Nutrition Facts
Per 85gChef’s Secret
To reduce the bitterness of frisée slightly, soak the leaves in ice water for about 15-20 minutes before drying thoroughly.
Frisee Substitutes & Ratios
The best substitute for Frisee is Escarole, used at a 1:1 ratio. Similar bitterness and texture, especially good for cooked applications or salads.
| Substitute | Ratio | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Escarole Best | 1:1 | Similar bitterness and texture, especially good for cooked applications or salads. |
| Radicchio | 1:1 | Offers a comparable bitter flavor and crunch, but with a more intense color and often firmer texture. |
| Belgian Endive | 1:1 | Provides a similar crisp texture and bitterness, though the leaves are boat-shaped and less frilly. |
| Arugula | 1:1 | For a peppery, slightly bitter note in salads, though it lacks the characteristic frilly texture. |
How to Choose & Store Frisee
- Do not wash frisée until ready to use.
- Store unwashed frisée in a plastic bag lined with a paper towel.
- Place it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.
What Pairs Well With Frisee?
- Bacon
- Poached egg
- Dijon vinaigrette
- Goat cheese
- Walnuts
- Apples
- Pears
- Citrus
- Olive oil
- Shallots
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Frisee taste like?
Frisée delivers a refreshing and assertive bitterness, balanced by a subtle earthiness that invigorates the palate. Fresh|Grassy
What is a good substitute for Frisee?
The best substitute is Escarole (1:1). Similar bitterness and texture, especially good for cooked applications or salads.
How do you choose and store Frisee?
Do not wash frisée until ready to use. Store unwashed frisée in a plastic bag lined with a paper towel. Place it in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.