Endive, Cichorium endiviais a leaf vegetable belonging to the daisy family. Endive can be cooked or used raw in salads.
Endive is a leafy green in the chicory family which may be eaten raw or cooked. It is native to India, but is more widely cultivated in Europe and the United States, where endive is a popular salad green. Many grocers carry endive, and it is often available year-round, thanks to its hardiness and ability to be grown in hothouses. It is also possible to grow endive at home, if you live in a temperate climate and have access to a partially sunny area with loose, well-drained soil.
Originary from Mediterranean area, endives are known from ancient times and they were planted by the Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. The thick leaves can be consumed. Besides this, endives have also some medical properties.
Health Benefits of Endive
Belgian endive is very low in calories. It is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, and a good source of fiber. Belgian endive contains about 95 percent water and 7.5 calories per cup.
