Broad-Leaved Batavian Endive?
nfridayAugust 26, 2014
Hi- Has anybody grown this? How bitter is it? I bought a four pack at Anton's in Evanston this afternoon, and it was labeled as Broad Leaf Batabian, They spelled it wrong I assume. I assumed that it was a Batavian lettuce. When I googled it, I found out it is an endive. I tried to find some reviews for it, and I could not. Cook's Garden, Fedco, Nichols and a few other companies sell the seeds. Judging by the catalog descriptions I have read, it appears to be less bitter than other endives and escaroles. Has anybody had any experience growing this? I also picked up a 4 pack of Toscano or Dinosaur kale. It has gotten some rave reviews here. Thanks, Nancy
I've been growing this for a number of years. It's a staple of Italian cooking, great recipes available, and it's not bitter at all. It's mild, with a texture all its own. I mostly use it in several soup recipes and in a couple with cannellini beans. Great fall crop.