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Showing posts from February, 2026

What is Chicory?

Chicory Coffee: History, Tradition, and Louisiana Roots Chicory coffee is more than just a beverage — it’s a story of resilience, culture, and regional pride. While many people associate coffee strictly with roasted coffee beans, chicory has played a unique role in coffee history, especially in Louisiana. What Is Chicory Coffee? Chicory coffee is made by roasting and grinding the root of the chicory plant (Cichorium intybus). When brewed alone, it creates a dark, slightly woody, nutty beverage. When blended with coffee, it adds body, earthiness, and a subtle bittersweet depth. Unlike coffee beans, chicory contains no caffeine, yet it produces a bold, roasted flavor that complements traditional coffee beautifully. A History Born from Shortage Chicory became popular in Europe during times when coffee was scarce or expensive. During the Napoleonic Wars in the early 1800s, trade disruptions limited coffee imports into France. To stretch supplies, people began mixing roasted chi...