Blanching Endive - Knowledgebase Question

Norwalk, OH
Avatar for kruppdr
Question by kruppdr
July 30, 1999
What is the best way to blanch endive? I normally use a rubber band to bunch the leaves. Sometimes the plant tends to start rotting. It usually takes about 5-7 days to turn yellow, which is the way I like it. Is there a better way? I tried putting a sheet of cardboard over them, but they turned brown. Any suggestions?


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Answer from NGA
July 30, 1999
If the leaves are dry when you gather and tie them, the heart of the plant won't rot. If there's rainfall, or overhead watering done after you've tied the leaves, you'll need to untie and allow them to dry before retying. It's labor-intensive, but it's the best way to blanch endive. I think when you put cardboard over the plants you excluded light and perhaps trapped moisture, which is why the leaves turned brown.

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