Cold-hardy radicchio with great yields. Improved Costarossa type with better color expression, more uniform plants, and less susceptibility to tipburn. Unique rib color ranges from pink to dark red. 120 days. Photo courtesy of Johnny’s Seeds.
Care: Plant 20-30″ apart in rows 24-36″ apart in full sun, cool moist soil.
Red or green or in between, Italian chicories (aka endive, frisee, and radicchio) are heritage greens that combine a sweet, flowery fragrance with an intriguingly peppery bite. Gorgeous in the garden and stunning on the plate, this bevy of Italian beauties offer myriad variations to enjoy. With scoop-shaped leaves that are perfect for dipping, these flavorful greens partner deliciously with distinctive cheeses and creamy dressings. Their spunky bite is mellowed by slow cooking; try braising in butter or splitting whole heads lengthwise and grilling until lightly caramelized. Josh Volk of Slowhand Farm offers more ideas here and explains how to get the most from these versatile vegetables here. We think you’ll be as excited as we are when you see this fantastic brochure from Osborne Quality Seeds (we’re grateful for the loan!) as well as this informative Italian poster which was created by Local Roots Farm, Johnny’s Selected Seeds and the Culinary Breeding Network, and features many of the varieties we’re growing.
Also, here’s a delightful zine, 46 pages of tasty recipes to keep you going throughout the cool months of the year, as well as a detailed history on the origin and uses of Chicory.
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