What cultivation technique keeps the Belgian endive tight and nearly white?
Answer
Growing it in darkness
The characteristic pale color and milder flavor profile of Belgian endive are direct results of its specific cultivation method, which involves growing the vegetable in dark conditions. Light exposure triggers the production of bitter compounds within the plant structure. By shielding the developing head from light, the vegetable remains pale and its flavor is kept less assertive than varieties exposed to sunlight, such as curly endive. This controlled environment is key to achieving the mildness associated with this specific variety.
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