You say N-dive, I say On-deev. Is there a difference? Actually, there is. Although they are both members of the chicory family, they are different.

CURLY ENDIVE = N-DIVE = LOVES THE LIGHT

Grown outdoors, endive (pronounced n-dive) is the wild member of the family, with curly, deeply-indented disheveled leaves. It is often called curly endive. A tamer looking version is called escarole.  Frisee is a smaller variety with fine leaves and a semi-blanched center.

BELGIAN ENDIVE = ON-DEEV = FRIEND OF THE DARK

So what is endive (on-deev)? Most often referred to as Belgian endive, it could be called the elegant member of the chicory family, with its tightly packed leaves and smooth, elongated shape. Unlike curly endive or other chicory's, its final growth takes place in the dark, contributing to its blanched color. But, let’s not quibble, no matter how you pronounce it, endives are one of the most versatile, delicious and healthy vegetables in the world.