Broad, slightly wavy leaves with a mild bitterness (less bitter than radicchio or endive — the most accessible chicory). One cup provides 23% DV vitamin K, 11% DV vitamin A, 7% DV folate, and the characteristic chicory inulin prebiotic fiber. Contains lactucopicrin (bile stimulant, liver support). Inner leaves are almost sweet — excellent raw.
Available at most grocery stores, especially in Italian-American neighborhood stores. Farmers markets. Very affordable.
Escarole is the most accessible bitter green — less intense than radicchio or endive, which makes it the entry-point bitter green for those new to bitters. The lactucopicrin and inulin deliver the same liver and gut benefits as radicchio with a more approachable flavor. Braised escarole and white beans (escarole e fagioli) is one of the most nutritionally complete traditional Italian-American dishes — bitter green liver support + prebiotic fiber + legume protein + folate in one bowl.
Raw: inner pale leaves in salads. Braised: roughly chop, sauté with olive oil + garlic + chili + cannellini beans + chicken broth. Soup: escarole and bean soup — one of the simplest, most nutritious soups. Wilts quickly when cooked — add in last 5-10 minutes of soup preparation.
Free, no account needed to ask.