Chicory root 'coffee'
Chicory root 'coffee' is a caffeine-free beverage made from the roasted, ground root of the chicory plant, often used as a coffee substitute or additive. It has a deep, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor profile similar to coffee. The practice of using chicory as a beverage is strongly associated with New Orleans, USA, but its use as a coffee substitute dates back to 19th-century Europe, particularly during times of scarcity.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This beverage is very low in calories, fat, and protein, with its primary nutritional contribution coming from a type of soluble fiber called inulin. A standard cup provides minimal calories but can be a source of prebiotic fiber and certain minerals like potassium.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 10 kcal |
| Protein | 0.5 g |
| Carbs | 2 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 1.5 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 5 mg |
| Potassium | 80 mg |
| Manganese | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.02 mg |
| Vitamin C | 1 mg |
| Iron | 0.2 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
Per 1 cup brewed chicory root beverage (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Chicory root is a rich source of inulin, a prebiotic fiber that can support digestive health by feeding beneficial gut bacteria. Culturally, it's famously blended with coffee in New Orleans-style chicory coffee, a tradition born from Civil War coffee shortages.
