Vegetable | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie Low Fat

Red Chicory

Cichorium intybus Allergen-Free
Red Chicory

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Asteraceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean
  • Seasonality Fall|Winter
  • Source Chicory Plant

What Is Red Chicory?

A leafy vegetable, often vibrant red with white veins, known for its distinct bitter yet refreshing flavor and crisp texture.

What Does Red Chicory Taste Like?

Red Chicory has a bitter, slightly sweet, peppery taste with earthy, mild aromas.

Taste
Bitter, Slightly Sweet, Peppery
Texture
Crisp, Crunchy
Aroma
Earthy, Mild
Acidity
Low

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 80 g
Calories23 kcal
Total Fat0.3 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.4 g
Total Carbohydrate4.5 g
Dietary Fiber3.1 g
Total Sugars0.8 g
Calcium28 mg
Iron0.9 mg
Potassium255 mg

Chef’s Secret

To reduce bitterness, soak red chicory leaves in cold water for 15-30 minutes before serving.

Red Chicory Substitutes & Ratios

The best substitute for Red Chicory is Radicchio, used at a 1:1 ratio. Closest match in color, bitterness, and texture.

Substitutes for Red Chicory with ratios
Substitute Ratio Best for
Radicchio Best 1:1 Closest match in color, bitterness, and texture.
Belgian Endive 1:1 Similar crisp texture and elegant, slightly bitter leaves.
Frisée (Curly Endive) 1:1 More delicate, but offers a similar bitter crunch for salads.
Arugula 1:1 For a peppery, slightly bitter green, less crisp.

How to Choose & Store Red Chicory

Choose heads that are firm, vibrant in color, and free from wilting or brown spots.

What Pairs Well With Red Chicory?

  • Citrus
  • Walnuts
  • Blue Cheese
  • Balsamic Vinegar
  • Prosciutto
  • Pears

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Red Chicory taste like?

Bitter, Slightly Sweet, Peppery Earthy, Mild

What is a good substitute for Red Chicory?

The best substitute is Radicchio (1:1). Closest match in color, bitterness, and texture.

How do you choose and store Red Chicory?

Choose heads that are firm, vibrant in color, and free from wilting or brown spots.

Related Vegetable Ingredients

Need a substitute for Red Chicory right now, or a recipe that uses it? Ask Sous, your AI sous-chef.