Chicory and caramelised red onion

Chicory is a great source of vitamins and minerals, including zinc, magnesium, iron and potassium. It comes with a wealth of health benefits. It contains: inulin, which is a powerful probiotic that’s been shown to ease digestive problems. It’s also said to help prevent heartburn, reduce arthritis pains, detoxify the liver and gallbladder, prevent bacterial infections, boost the immune system, and reduce the chance of heart disease. Wow! As if that’s not enough, if you’re struggling to sleep, chicory can also help as a natural sedative.

But what to do with it? If you fancy trying something a little more adventurous than simply throwing the leaves into a salad, why not try this chicory and caramelised red onion dish.

Ingredients (serves 2 as a side dish)

1 x chicory

1 x small red onion

Pinch of caraway seeds

Pinch of fennel seeds

1ts maple syrup

Salt and pepper to taste

1tsp coconut oil

Half a lemon

Method

Heat a teaspoon of coconut oil in a heavy-based frying pan.

Chop the onion in half and slice each half thinly. Add to the pan and lightly fry for 10 minutes until it begins to soften.

Remove any damaged outer leaves and slice the chicory into quarters. Add to the pan with a pinch of fennel, a pinch of caraway seeds and salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for 10-15 minutes until the chicory softens and slightly browns.

Serve warm with a squeeze of fresh lemon and twist of black pepper.