07/10/2026
Nothing can replace coffee, but chicory serves as the next best alternative!
Here are some frequently asked questions about one of our favorite products, so you can laern more about this New Orleans Staple:
Q: What is the difference between regular coffee and chicory coffee?
A: Regular coffee is made from coffee beans, and chicory coffee is made from the roots of the chicory plant.
Q: What is a chicory plant?
A: The chicory plant is a flowering perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the dandelion family. It has bright blue flowers, leaves and tough stems. The plant is can be found growing in several parts of the world, especially in the Mediterranean.
Q: Does chicory coffee taste similar to regular coffee?
A: Yes, chicory coffee tastes similar to regular coffee by having a bitter taste, but chicory also tastes woody and nutty.
Q: How do you make chicory coffee?
A: Chicory coffee can be brewed just like regular coffee, so you can follow your guidelines and add your own spices. Chicory can also be blended in with regular coffee as a flavor complement if you brew 2/3 grounded coffee and 1/3 chicory coffee.
Q: Are there health benefits to drinking chicory coffee?
A: Yes, there are health benefits if used in moderation. Chicory coffee is commonly known as the caffeine-free alternative to coffee. There is also a percentage of inulin and antioxidants in chicory.
Q: Why is chicory popular in coffee around New Orleans?
A: During the Civil War era, New Orleans was the second-largest coffee port in the world. The port was blockaded by the Union, which led to a coffee shortage and local chaos. Desperate to find a coffee alternative, locals followed in French footsteps and turned to chicory because of the similar coffee characteristics. After the Civil War ended, the use of chicory continued throughout New Orleans and can still be found in several popular drinks throughout the city today.
