Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world. The rich and bold flavor of coffee is a favorite among many people, and it can be enjoyed in various forms, such as espresso, cappuccino, or latte. But have you ever heard of coffee that has chicory in it? Chicory is an herb that is often used as a substitute or additive in coffee, and it adds a unique and bold flavor to the beverage. In this article, I will discuss why coffee with chicory is so special and where you can find it.
What is Chicory?
Chicory is a perennial herb that belongs to the dandelion family. It has vibrant blue flowers and its leaves are often used in salads. However, what makes chicory unique is its root. The root of the chicory plant is roasted and ground, and it can be used as a coffee substitute or additive.
Why Add Chicory to Coffee?
There are several reasons why chicory is added to coffee. Firstly, chicory adds a bold and unique flavor to coffee. It has a slightly nutty and earthy taste that complements the natural bitterness of coffee. This combination creates a complex and robust flavor profile that many people find appealing.
Secondly, chicory can help to reduce the acidity of coffee. Some people find that drinking regular coffee can cause discomfort or heartburn due to its high acidity. By adding chicory to coffee, the acidity levels are decreased, making it a more enjoyable beverage for those with sensitive stomachs.
Lastly, chicory is often added to coffee as a cost-saving measure. In the past, when the price of coffee was high or when coffee was scarce, people would use chicory as a substitute. Even though coffee is now widely available, the tradition of adding chicory to coffee has continued and has become a beloved practice in certain regions.
Where to Find Coffee with Chicory?
If you are intrigued by the idea of trying coffee with chicory, you may be wondering where you can find it. Coffee with chicory is particularly popular in certain regions, such as New Orleans, where it is a staple in their famous café au lait. You can find coffee with chicory in many coffee shops, both in New Orleans and in other parts of the world.
Furthermore, there are also various brands that produce coffee with chicory, and you can find them in specialty stores or online. Some popular brands include Café du Monde, Community Coffee, and French Market Coffee. These brands offer a range of coffee with chicory blends, allowing you to choose the one that suits your taste preferences.
How to Brew Coffee with Chicory?
Brewing coffee with chicory is similar to brewing regular coffee. You can use a coffee maker, a French press, or any other brewing method that you prefer. However, it is important to note that coffee with chicory may have a different brewing ratio than regular coffee.
To brew coffee with chicory, you can start by mixing the desired amount of coffee and chicory grounds. The ratio may vary depending on your personal preference, but a common ratio is one-third chicory and two-thirds coffee. You can adjust the ratio to make the flavor stronger or milder, depending on your taste.
Once your coffee and chicory blend is ready, you can add it to your coffee maker or French press and brew it as you normally would. The resulting beverage will have a bold and distinct flavor that sets it apart from regular coffee.
Conclusion
Coffee with chicory offers a bold and unique flavor that is worth trying for any coffee enthusiast. Whether you are looking for a change from your usual coffee routine or you simply want to explore new flavors, coffee with chicory can be a delightful surprise. From its nutty and earthy taste to its ability to reduce acidity, chicory adds depth to the already beloved beverage. So, go ahead and discover the bold and unique flavor of coffee with chicory.