According to her, this plant is chicory—a plant that many residents of Kyrgyzstan have seen. Its dark green bushes with blue or white flowers can be found in fields, along roads, and at the edges of gardens. However, it is the root of the chicory, which can reach a length of one and a half to ten meters, that makes this plant popular in medicine and cooking. It is a primary source of beneficial substances and is used to make one of the most well-known coffee substitutes in the world.
“During the Soviet era, this drink was very popular. It was served to children in schools, kindergartens, and health camps. I still remember the aroma of the coffee drink that was prepared for us in the pioneer camp at Issyk-Kul. It was done specifically to give us chicory instead of sweet soda,” she noted.
Chicory is beneficial for children as it improves digestion and contributes to the formation of healthy intestinal microflora. Proper intestinal function during childhood is important for metabolism. The first years of life play a key role in forming the microflora that strengthens immunity and helps prevent allergic diseases, as well as promotes normal physical and mental development.
“Chicory is also very beneficial for people with cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, neurasthenia, and depression,” added Olga Mironova.
So how can one prepare a delicious and healthy drink from chicory, similar to coffee?
Here is her recipe:
“You need to dissolve 2 teaspoons of root powder in hot, but not boiling water. This will help preserve the rich flavor and beneficial components. Then, you need to mix the mixture thoroughly. You can add a little warm milk, a pinch of cinnamon, and sweeten it with honey to the finished drink. In hot weather, you can use another method: brew the chicory as described above, cool it down, add ice, a little milk, and honey. You will get a delicious caffeine-free drink with prebiotics,” she shared.
Biologist Irina Stezhko added that the chicory root has a bitter taste in its fresh form, so it is not consumed without processing. However, after roasting and grinding, it is used to make a popular drink that is valued not only for its mild coffee flavor but also for its many positive health effects.
“Regular consumption of chicory coffee brings significant benefits: it improves digestion, restores intestinal microbiota, and detoxifies the body,” she concluded.
