Topic: Pallo Rosso...

[Sarah-b]

I have started off some Pallo Rosso something or other chicory seedlings. They are the ones that are a bit like witloof in that you grow them and then dig up the roots and force to get that shaggy reddish winter veg. Question is, can you eat the leaves that grow between now and the digging up stage? Or are they just detined for the compost heap?
Thanks,
Sarah.

[Merry Tiller]

I think the unforced ones are extremely bitter tasting

[terrace max]

Hi Sarah B

I've always grown Palla Rossa chicories for their leaves, not for their roots/ forcing. Although I suppose you could blanch it...

Think radicchio - the red and white stuff you get in supermarket mixed salad bags and you'll be on the right lines. A bit bitter for some, but I LOVE it! You can mix it with lettuce if you're not convinced, or use plenty of vinaigrette type dressing.

Chicories are a really good autumn crop, when everything else is starting to wind down.Loads more chicories here if you feel inspired...

http://www.seedsofitaly.sagenet.co.uk/radicchio1.htm