Endives

Endives (Cichorium endivia) are foliage greens native to the Mediterranean (where they once grew wild). Cultivated first by the Egyptians, endives were later introduced to the United States from Europe, possibly by German or Dutch immigrants. There are two basic endive types. Curly leaf cultivars grow low to the ground and feature pretty, ruffled, prostrate leaves around a creamy yellow heart. Broadleaf cultivars grow larger and taller and have coarse, crumpled leaves with speared tips. Escarole is an example of a broadleaf endive. Among the few winter greens, endives are often used raw in salads, and many varieties may be cooked as side dishes. The coarse outer leaves of the broadleaf endives are generally used in soups or stews.