Chicory, typically Flemish
The chicory is actually a typical Flemish product. The root of the chicory plant is roasted and the result was used as a coffee substitute at the time. Today, this ancient tradition has fallen into disuse. The white leaves of the plant are also known as "chicory". The Audruicq – Oye-Plage region is the region par excellence: around 20,000 tonnes of it are processed annually.
Did you know... that an annual Chicory Festival is organized in the north of France? In 2023, this party will run from September 27 to October 27. Here you will find the full program.
Did you know... that there is even a separate booklet with recipes from northern France in which chicory is used? It was published in September 2020 and is entitled "La chicorée ça se cuisine!" (ISBN 978-2-9574448-0-9).
Did you know... that there is also a Chicory route (region of Ardooie and Lichtervelde)?
Tip: if you want to eat a nice crème brûlée with chicory, you can go to "l'Entre-Mers" in Audinghen, for example. This is close to the "Maison du site des 2 Caps". This is located between the Cap-Gris-Nez and the Cap-Blanc-Nez. And while you're there, ask for the local, craft beer "2 Caps". The brewery is not far from there and can be visited.
Wikipedia page about Chicory ( dutch, french ).
Location of Brasserie l'Entre-Mers on Google Maps.

