Chicory Root is a flowering plant in the dandelion family with a nutty, slightly bitter, earthy flavor. It is often used as a coffee substitute or compliment, especially during times of scarcity. In cooking, chicory root can be roasted, ground and used as a spice. It adds a unique and complex taste to dishes like stews, sauces and marinades. Chicory root can also be brewed into a tea, which has a slightly bitter, nutty flavor and is often enjoyed as a caffeine-free alternative to coffee. Chicory is also used as a digestive and can help with upset stomach, indigestion and constipation.

Chicory root is often incorrectly cited as a caffeine source. Chicory contains no caffeine. Historically, chicory has been added to coffee in efforts to bulk up the brew and lower costs. Originally roasted and used in Holland, chicory was used a complete replacement in France as Napoleon put efforts in place to make the country entirely self reliant. Chicory is used today in New Orleans coffee blends. Café Au Lait's generous glug of hot milk and generous addition of sugar helps to tamp the bitterness of chicory root.

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