How Napoleon, an Opera, and The Belgian Revolution gave us White Gold

Belgian endives (aka., witloof - "white leaf") are a member of the chicory family, which includes frisee, escarole, and radicchio. They can be eaten raw or cooked, and have a moist, crisp, and pleasantly mild bitter taste. Extremely low in fat and calories, endives are a great source of vitamin A, B, and C, fiber, and are loaded with minerals such as manganese, iron, and potassium. In fact, one head of endive delivers almost 60% of the potassium found in a banana! So beloved in Europe, they were nicknamed "white gold" when they first arrived in Paris in 1872. But where did endives come from?

In 1814, following Napoleon's exile to the island of Elba, the Congress of Vienna united the primarily Protestant state of Holland with the primarily Catholic state of Belgium, creating the United Kingdom of the Netherlands. With the many religious and cultural differences between the northern Dutch and southern Belgians, tensions were high. In 1830, during the Brussels showing of the patriotic- and revolutionary-themed opera The Mute of Portici, the Belgians were so inspired that a riot broke out, thus beginning The Belgian War of Independence. By the end of the year, European nations began recognizing Belgium as an independent country; and, in 1831 the new national congress elected German Prince Leopold of Saxe-Coburg as their new King. In the spring of the same year, a man named Jan Lammers returned from the war to his farm near Brussels. Prior to leaving, Jan had stored chicory roots in his cellar to later be dried and roasted for use as a coffee substitute. However, to his surprise, the roots had sprouted small, white, leafy shoots. He tried the leaves and endives were discovered! 

When purchasing endives, choose crisp, firmly-packed heads without any discolored spots or insect damage. They are best stored in the refrigerator, wrapped in a paper towel and placed in an open plastic bag. They are at their best November through April, making them a perfect choice for the holidays. One of the easiest, and most delicious ways to enjoy these bitter gems, is to make "Endive Leaves with Roquefort, Honey, and Walnuts." It's a combination that can't be beat! These elegant hors d'oeuvres are a perfect way to start a meal and equally welcome to any cocktail party repertoire.

Endive Leaves with Roquefort, Honey, and Walnuts

Makes approximately 20 leaves

Ingredients:

2 Belgian endives, washed and leaves separated

4 ounces Roquefort or other strong blue cheese

3-4 tablespoons heavy cream, or enough to make a smooth paste

2 tablespoons toasted walnuts, chopped (you can also use spiced or candied nuts)

Honey

Directions:

With a sharp knife, carefully cut a small slice from the back of each leaf to ensure they sit flat on a serving tray. Using a food processor or a fork, mix the Roquefort and cream together until smooth. Pipe a small rosette of the cheese mixture at the bottom of each leaf. (I like to top each rosette with a tiny slice of additional Roquefort, because I adore Roquefort!) Drizzle each leaf with some honey. Sprinkle with the toasted walnuts and serve. Enjoy!