Spiral Style: Flavor of the Week: Fennel

Fennel Facts

Fennel is often mistakenly called anise. Fennel has a milder, licorice flavor than anise.
Fennel is used to flavor many liqueurs
Fennel is rich in vitamin A
Fennel is in the same species as cumin, parsley and caraway
Fennel seed is used as a digestive
Fennel pairs well with beef, beets, breads, carrots, celery, cheese, chicken, corn, cucumbers, eggs, meatloaf, onions, pasta, peas, pork, potatoes, rice, salads, salmon, seafood, squash, tomatoes, turkey
The ancient Greeks used fennel seeds as an appetite suppressant

Florence fennel or finocchio, is the broad, bulbous based plant used as a vegetable. Base and stem can be used raw as in salads or braised, sauteed or grilled. The feathery greens can be used as a garnish as you would use dill.
Common fennel is the source of fennel seeds used in cooking. The common fennel plant is totally edible but is bulbless

Using finocchio fennel

Substitute fennel for celery

Roast fennel along with root vegetables

Grill fennel as a side dish with fish

Pair raw fennel with oranges and onions in a salad

Using fennel seeds

Toast seeds and crush with other aromatics and use as a rub on fish or pork

Add to whole grain breads

Pairs well with carrot

Often used in Indian and Mediterranean cuisines

Common ingredient in sausage

Fennel-Rubbed Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Fennel Wedges

My dear friend, Cyndy, shared this Epicurious recipe with me. Fennel is a natural with pork and this recipe uses both fennel seeds and fresh, gnocchi fennel.