At first glance similar to a lettuce, it does in fact belong to the Asteraceae family, which common chicory is also a part of. It can be identified through its large, long head, and its name comes from its sweet, crunchy taste. It is a typical winter vegetable, thanks to its unique resistance to frost.
Rich in minerals, in particular calcium and iron, it has a purifying and detoxifying effect: its bitter aromatic constituents stimulate the appetite and facilitate digestion and water exchange, activating diuresis.