Chicory coffee has a rich history and offers a unique twist on traditional coffee. It is made from the roots of the chicory plant. This drink has been a staple in various cultures for centuries particularly in New Orleans.
It is mostly known for its smooth, robust flavor and subtle sweetness, chicory coffee provides a caffeine-free alternative or a flavor increase to your regular coffee routine.
What is Chicory Coffee?
Chicory coffee is a beverage made from the chicory plant’s roasted and ground roots called Cichorium intybus. It is often used as a coffee substitute or additive.
Chicory root can be blended with regular coffee to create a richer and more complex taste profile. It is popular in regions like New Orleans, chicory coffee has a storied history and provides a caffeine-free alternative for those looking to reduce their intake.
History of Chicory Coffee
The history of chicory coffee dates back to ancient times with its roots going back to ancient Egypt where chicory was used for medicinal purposes. The use of chicory as a coffee substitute began in the early 19th century in France. During the Napoleonic Wars, coffee was scarce due to naval blockades due to which the French used chicory root as a coffee extender or substitute. This practice spread throughout Europe and eventually made its way to the United States.
Chicory coffee gained particular prominence in New Orleans during the Civil War when coffee imports were disrupted. The city’s French heritage and port status made it a prime location for adopting this tradition. Today, New Orleans remains a popular spot for chicory coffee with many cafes and restaurants serving this unique blend.
How To Make Chicory Coffee
Making chicory coffee at home is a simple process that can give you a delicious and unique drink. Here is the step-by-step guide to making chicory coffee.
Ingredients
- Roasted chicory root (ground)
- Coffee beans (ground)
- Water
- Sweetener and milk or cream
Equipment
- Coffee maker (drip, French press, or espresso machine)
- Coffee grinder (if using whole beans)
- Measuring spoons
- Coffee filters (if using a drip coffee maker)
Step-by-step Guide
Here is the step-by-step guide on how to make Chicory Coffee.
Step 01. Measure Your Ingredients:
For a balanced flavor use a 1:1 ratio of ground coffee to ground chicory. Adjust the ratio to suit your taste preferences. For example, you might start with 1 tablespoon of ground coffee and 1 tablespoon of ground chicory per cup of water.
Step 02. Grind the Coffee and Chicory:
If using whole coffee beans and whole roasted chicory root, then grind them to a medium-coarse consistency. A finer grind can be used if you’re making espresso.
Step 03. Prepare the Coffee Maker:
Set up your coffee maker according to its specific instructions. Place a filter in your drip coffee maker or get your French press or espresso machine ready.
Step 04. Combine Coffee and Chicory:
Mix the ground coffee and ground chicory together. Place the mixture into the coffee maker’s filter or French press.
Step 05. Add Water:
For a drip coffee maker or French press, you can use about 6-8 ounces of water per tablespoon of the coffee-chicory mixture. Adjust the water amount based on how strong you prefer.
Step 06. Brew the Coffee:
Follow the brewing instructions for your coffee maker. For a drip coffee maker simply turn it on and let it brew. For a French press pour hot water over the mixture, stir, and let it steep for about 4 minutes before pressing the plunger down. If you are using an espresso machine then prepare it as you would a regular espresso shot.
Step 07. Serve:
Pour the brewed chicory coffee into a cup. Add sweetener, milk, or cream if you want. Chicory coffee can be enjoyed in black or with additions to suit your taste.
How Chicory Coffee Taste?
Chicory coffee has a unique flavor that makes it different from regular coffee. It is often described as having a rich, robust, and slightly earthy taste with hints of nuttiness and a subtle sweetness. The natural bitterness of chicory root is more pronounced than that of coffee but it also brings a smoother and less acidic finish. When blended with coffee chicory increases the overall flavor which provides a deeper and more complex taste. This distinctive combination makes chicory coffee a favored choice for those who enjoy bold and full-bodied beverages.
Conclusion
Chicory coffee has a rich history and unique flavor profile and offers a delightful alternative or complement to traditional coffee. Originating from ancient medicinal practices and gaining popularity in France and New Orleans it has become a beloved drink worldwide. People can now make chicory coffee at home with a simple process that allows for customization to suit individual taste preferences.
