Fennel

Foeniculum vulgare Vegetable / Herb / Spice

Fennel Vegetable / Herb / Spice

At a Glance

  • Category Vegetable / Herb / Spice

The Forktionary Angle

"The versatile botanical wonder that offers a refreshing anise note, transforming from crisp raw vegetable to tender roasted delight."

Definition

An aromatic flowering plant, often used as a vegetable, herb, and spice, known for its distinctive licorice-like flavor.

Culinary Usage All parts of the plant (bulb, stalks, fronds, seeds) are edible.
Flavor Transformation Roasting or caramelizing fennel mellows its anise flavor, bringing out a sweeter note.
Storage Method Store bulbs in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, wrapped loosely to prevent drying.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Fennel are:

Anise licorice sweet fresh slightly peppery

Chef’s Secret

To achieve a beautiful caramelization on roasted fennel, slice it thinly and roast it cut-side down without disturbing for the first 15-20 minutes.

Best Substitutes

Celery

for crunch/texture, but lacks anise); Anise seed (for flavor, variable amount); Star anise (for flavor, small amount
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Choose firm, white bulbs without brown spots, with fresh, feathery green fronds.

Recipes Using Fennel

Lentils Preparation Lentils Dietary

Bavarian Lentil Soup

This hearty Bavarian Lentil Soup recipe is a taste sensation! Legend has it, this recipe was so beloved by a head chef that he'd sneak leftovers home! Rich and flavorful, this soup is simmered to perfection with bacon, vegetables, and lentils, then finished with a surprising twist. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to impress!

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Course Time To Make Seafood Low Saturated Fat

Halibut With Blood Orange And Fennel

Experience a burst of fresh flavors with this vibrant halibut recipe! Perfectly pan-seared halibut is complemented by the sweetness of blood oranges and the subtle anise notes of fennel. This easy 20-minute recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal and is guaranteed to impress. Discover a new favorite way to enjoy this delicate fish!

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Number Of Servings Dietary Time To Make Gluten Free

Almond Shake Paleo And Gluten Free

Escape the ordinary with this dreamy Almond Shake recipe! Inspired by Bal Arneson's creation (Cooking Channel), this paleo and gluten-free twist is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. Naturally sweet and subtly spiced, it's the perfect healthy treat any time of day. No refined sugar needed!

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Main Dish Cuisine Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less

Apple And Fennel Roasted Pork Tenderloin

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this stunning Apple & Fennel Roasted Pork Tenderloin recipe! Inspired by Disney Family, this recipe features juicy pork tenderloin perfectly complemented by sweet apples and aromatic fennel, roasted to golden perfection. A simple yet elegant dish that's sure to impress.

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Grilling Grilling Seasonal Occasion

Bbq Pork Tenderloin With Bacon

Fire up the grill for this incredibly juicy and flavorful BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Pork Tenderloin! This quick and easy recipe uses tender pork medallions wrapped in smoky bacon, then infused with a homemade fennel spice rub (recipe #48753 included!). Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ, this recipe is surprisingly versatile and stretches further than you might think. The fennel spice rub complements both pork and lamb, making this a truly delicious and adaptable meal.

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European Cuisine Healthy 2 European

Baby Fennel With Salsa Verde

Discover the delightful sweetness of fennel with this vibrant and easy-to-make recipe! Perfectly tender baby fennel wedges are tossed in a zesty homemade salsa verde, creating a fresh and flavorful side dish or light lunch. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to expand their culinary horizons and is inspired by Australian cuisine.

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Seasonal Low In Something Taste Mood Healthy

Baked Fennel With Saffron

Experience the unexpected sweetness of fennel, also known as anise, in this simple yet elegant baked dish. Low in calories and surprisingly filling, this recipe is perfect for a healthy and flavorful weeknight meal or a light yet impressive side dish. Baking fennel intensifies its natural sweetness, creating a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated. The vibrant saffron adds a touch of luxury and stunning color, making this recipe a winner for any occasion!

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European Low Carb Vegetables Preparation

Baked Fennel

Elevate your side dish game with this irresistible Baked Fennel recipe! Tender fennel bulbs, boasting a delightful crunch, are baked to perfection with a golden, cheesy topping. A hint of fennel's signature flavor shines through, making it the ideal complement to grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even fish. This easy recipe is ready in under an hour and is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Chicken Meat Course Equipment

Arugula Salad With Grilled Chicken And Fennel

Savor summer with this vibrant arugula salad! Inspired by LCBO's Food & Drink Summer 2003 magazine, this recipe features juicy grilled chicken and sweet fennel, tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette and topped with salty Romano cheese. A perfect light yet satisfying meal or side dish.

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Time To Make Preparation Time To Make Course

Beef Stew With Fennel Orange Gremolata

Experience a delightful twist on classic comfort food! This Beef Stew with Fennel Orange Gremolata boasts tender beef simmered in a rich broth, then elevated with a vibrant, zesty gremolata. The fragrant fennel and bright orange complement the hearty stew perfectly, creating a dish that's both satisfying and surprisingly refreshing. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Course Dietary Cuisine European

Artichoke And Fennel Salad

This vibrant Artichoke and Fennel Salad is the perfect antipasto! Fresh fennel's subtle licorice notes mingle beautifully with briny artichoke hearts, juicy tomatoes, and Kalamata olives, all tossed in a zesty lemon-anchovy dressing. A simple yet elegant appetizer or light lunch, ready in under 30 minutes!

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Easy Low Sodium Course Easy

30 Minute Pasta Sauce

Ready in just 30 minutes, this incredibly flavorful pasta sauce skips the all-day simmering but delivers a taste that beats jarred sauces hands down! Our secret? Generous olive oil (trust us!). Customize your herbs and spices to create your perfect bowl. This recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with fresh, vibrant taste.

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Main Dish Main Dish Course

Apricot Orange Chicken Heart Healthy

This vibrant Apricot Orange Glazed Chicken recipe is a healthy and flavorful masterpiece! Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a zesty orange and fennel blend, then glazed with a luscious apricot sauce and baked to perfection. A show-stopping dish perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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American Lunch Meat Holiday Event

21 Club Hamburger

Recreate the legendary 21 Club Hamburger, originally featured in Savour Magazine! This recipe puts a delicious twist on a classic New York City delicacy. We've refined the original recipe (which used duck fat!) for ease and accessibility, resulting in a juicy, flavorful burger you won't forget. Get ready to experience the ultimate burger perfection!

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Cuisine Main Ingredient Fruit Occasion

Arugula Fennel And Orange Salad

A vibrant and refreshing arugula salad with thinly sliced fennel, juicy oranges, and a zesty citrus vinaigrette. This easy 20-minute recipe is perfect for a light lunch, dinner side dish, or a healthy appetizer. The peppery arugula, crisp fennel, and sweet oranges create a delightful flavor combination that's both satisfying and elegant. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

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Time To Make Easy Time To Make 3 Steps Or Less

A Butternut Acorn Squash Gratin

Wow your guests with this stunning Butternut Acorn Squash Gratin! This elegant, company-ready casserole is a winter warmer that's sure to be a showstopper at your Thanksgiving, Christmas feast, or any holiday potluck. Inspired by a rave-worthy recipe from a Raley's deli, this gratin boasts tender butternut and acorn squash, perfectly complemented by savory fennel, onions, and creamy cheeses. It's so delicious, it even outshone pumpkin ravioli at a recent bunco party! Prepare to be amazed by its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.

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Oven Pizza Preparation Number Of Servings

Amazing Thin Crust Pizza

Conquer pizza night with this game-changing recipe! Inspired by Cook's Illustrated and seasoned pizzaiolo techniques, this recipe creates a ridiculously crispy-tender, 13x18 inch (half-sheet pan) thin crust pizza (or two 12-inch rounds). My husband claims it's the highlight of his day – and it might be yours too! This recipe features a flavorful sauce (enough for 3 medium or 6 thin crust pizzas!), and meticulous instructions for achieving perfect crust and topping balance. A pizza stone is essential for that authentic pizzeria crisp. Learn the trick for effortless pizza transfer using parchment paper and a half-sheet pan. Get ready to impress – this pizza is better than takeout, and once you try it, you'll never order pizza again!

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Preparation Appetizers North American 30 Minutes Or Less

Baked Fennel With Vermouth

Elevate your next meal with this incredibly flavorful Baked Fennel with Vermouth! This simple yet elegant side dish, courtesy of Jamie Oliver, pairs perfectly with fish, chicken, pork, or beef. The fennel's sweetness is beautifully enhanced by the vermouth, creating a tender and aromatic experience that will impress your guests. Easy to make in just 30 minutes!

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