Chicory is a plant in the dandelion family that usually has bright blue flowers. The root of the chicory plant is commonly ground to be used as a coffee substitute or additive, or it is filtered into chicory root extract. The leaves and seeds are also used in culinary dishes.
Chicory plant have been shown to have positive health benefits due to soluble dietary fiber contained in the plant. Chicory root is a good source of fiber, which may help improve several aspects of your digestive health.
Chicory root is also commonly used in the preparation of a bitter coffee substitute in France and Japan. Chicory root coffee is becoming more popular in certain areas of the US.
It looks, and to some degree tastes, like coffee, but it is naturally caffeine-free. In fact, ground chicory root is added to certain types of beer to add flavor.
Chicory coffee is made of minced and roasted chicory root, which contains inulin fiber, manganese and vitamin B6.