Radicchio

Radicchio resembles a red cabbage producing variegated dark, burgundy leaves with contrasting white ribs. Growing from orange to grapefruit size and easy to peel, the smooth, crisp leaves offer a bitter flavour with a hint of spice. When cooked the vibrant burgundy colour of the leaves fades to a deep brown hue, its bitter flavour is mellowed and rather takes on a subtle sweetness. Only occasionally is this type of chicory given a forced second growth, when utilized though this method will yield a Radicchio with a waxier sheen on its exterior leaves.