Fennel Seeds

Foeniculum vulgare Spice

Fennel Seeds Spice

At a Glance

  • Category Spice

The Forktionary Angle

"The sweet, aromatic backbone for Mediterranean and Indian flavors."

Definition

Dried seeds from the fennel plant, possessing a distinctive aniselike flavor, commonly used as a spice in both sweet and savory cuisines.

Optimal Storage Airtight, cool, dark place (up to 2 years)
Primary Flavor Compound Anethole
Usage Tip Toast before grinding for enhanced flavor

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Fennel Seeds are:

Anise Licorice Sweet Aromatic

Chef’s Secret

Bloom fennel seeds in hot oil or butter at the start of cooking to infuse dishes with their distinctive aroma more effectively.

Best Substitutes

Anise Seeds

Ratio 1:1

Caraway Seeds

less sweet
Ratio 1:1

Star Anise

1/, stronger
Ratio 2:1

Buying Guide

Purchase whole seeds rather than ground for maximum freshness and flavor longevity.

Recipes Using Fennel Seeds

30 Minutes Or Less Seasonal Main Ingredient Meat

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.

See Complete Recipe
Main Dish Main Dish Time To Make Preparation

Authentic Pasta Sauce

Discover the secret to the best pasta sauce you'll ever taste! This family heirloom recipe, passed down through generations, is bursting with flavor. We've enhanced the classic recipe with juicy meatballs, spicy pepperoni, and sweet Italian sausage for a truly unforgettable experience. Feel free to add grilled chicken, rabbit, pork chops, or steak for an even more decadent meal (served on the side). This recipe easily serves 1 pound of pasta, but adjust to your needs. Freezes beautifully for future enjoyment!

See Complete Recipe
Cocktails European Beverages Weeknight

Angelica Liqueur

Indulge in the sophisticated taste of homemade Angelica Liqueur! This enchanting recipe transforms simple ingredients into a complex, aromatic spirit, perfect for a post-dinner treat. The long maturation process (cook time) develops rich layers of flavor, creating a truly special drink. Learn how to craft this elegant liqueur, a delightful surprise for yourself or a unique gift for others.

See Complete Recipe
Chili Inexpensive Course Time To Make

Best Chili Ever

Rachael Ray's award-winning chili recipe! This isn't your grandma's chili – it's a flavor explosion with unexpected ingredients that will leave you craving more. The secret? Fennel seed, ground cinnamon, and unsweetened cocoa powder create a depth of flavor unlike anything you've ever tasted. This recipe is incredibly versatile: make it on the stovetop or slow cook it in your crockpot for an effortless, all-day simmer. Serve with your favorite toppings and prepare for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
Very Low Carbs Main Ingredient Omelets And Frittatas Very Low Carbs

Baked Garden Omelet

Say goodbye to flipping omelets! This Baked Garden Omelet is a delightful, effortless dish bursting with fresh garden flavors. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, it's a fantastic brunch, lunch, or light dinner option. Enjoy the creamy ricotta, fragrant basil, and subtle spice blend in every bite – no flipping required!

See Complete Recipe
Vegetables Time To Make Pacific Northwest Cuisine

Asparagus Giovanni

Experience the taste of spring with this vibrant Asparagus Giovanni recipe, inspired by Giovanni's on Pearl in Ellensburg, Washington! This vegetarian entree features tender, thick asparagus spears (contrary to popular belief, thicker is often more tender!) from the Yakima Valley, sautéed with earthy mushrooms and fragrant herbs. Paired with perfectly cooked pasta and a touch of parmesan, it's a delightful dish that's both elegant and easy to make. Get ready to savor the fresh flavors of the Pacific Northwest!

See Complete Recipe
Course Chicken Preparation Cuisine

Barefoot Contessa Chicken Bouillabaisse

Indulge in this luxurious Chicken Bouillabaisse, inspired by Ina Garten's recipes! This comforting yet elegant dish features tender chicken simmered in a rich saffron-infused broth with fennel, potatoes, and a touch of Pernod. Easily adaptable – substitute sherry for white wine and readily available saffron powder for the expensive Spanish threads. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner. Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce. This recipe is easily adaptable to your pantry staples while maintaining a truly delicious result!

See Complete Recipe
Equipment 30 Minutes Or Less Small Appliance Time To Make

Almond Dukkah

Elevate your meals with this incredibly flavorful Almond Dukkah! This unique recipe combines crunchy almonds with aromatic fennel for a taste sensation that's both familiar and exciting. Perfect sprinkled over crusty Turkish bread with olive oil, or used as a vibrant crust for chicken or fish. Australian measurements used. Get ready for a flavor explosion in just 22 minutes!

See Complete Recipe
Low Carb Low Protein 3 Steps Or Less Course

Arugula And Mint Salad

A refreshing and vibrant arugula and mint salad tossed in a zesty fennel vinaigrette. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch, side dish, or appetizer. The bright flavors of arugula, mint, and fennel combine for a taste sensation!

See Complete Recipe
Indian Time To Make Indian Main Dish

Balti Chicken Khara Masala

Experience a flavor explosion with our Balti Chicken Khara Masala! This vibrant curry bursts with the aromatic warmth of whole spices, creating a rich and satisfying dish ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, this easy wok-fried chicken curry is a delicious shortcut to restaurant-quality flavor. Impress your family and friends with this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make recipe!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Soups Stews Time To Make 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!

See Complete Recipe
Dietary Technique Dietary Easy

Aldeburgh Flatbread

This Aldeburgh Flatbread recipe is a culinary adventure! Craft your own unique flatbread by kneading in your favorite blend of seeds, spices, and herbs. We suggest a tantalizing mix of fennel, coriander, thyme, marjoram (or basil), and spring onions for a burst of Mediterranean flavors. Cooked on a grill pan, BBQ, or frying pan, this flatbread is perfect as a side dish or the base for your favorite toppings. Get ready for a 30-minute journey to flatbread perfection!

See Complete Recipe
Course Soups Stews Vegetables Course

Asparagus Soup

Indulge in this vibrant and healthy asparagus soup! A lighter take on a classic, this recipe is luxuriously creamy yet lower in fat and packed with fiber. Fresh asparagus shines in this delicious and easy-to-make soup, perfect for a light lunch or a sophisticated starter.

See Complete Recipe
Indian Pakistani Time To Make 60 Minutes Or Less

Achari Fish

Experience the explosion of flavors in this Achari Fish recipe! Tender fish marinated in zesty lemon and cooked in a rich, spicy, and tangy curry. The aromatic blend of spices creates a truly unforgettable dish. Serve with fluffy rice, naan bread, and cooling raita for a complete and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

See Complete Recipe
North American Equipment Appetizers Main Ingredient

Basic Boiled Shrimp

Elevate your seafood game with this easy-to-follow recipe for perfectly cooked shrimp, ideal for dipping in your favorite cocktail sauce. Tender, juicy shrimp in just minutes! This basic recipe is a must-have for any seafood lover.

See Complete Recipe
Cuisine Pasta Rice And Grains Time To Make Grains

Best Crunchy Breadsticks

Elevate your next dinner party or shower with these unbelievably crunchy breadsticks! Light, airy, and with a melt-in-your-mouth texture, they're the perfect savory treat. This recipe delivers the ultimate crispy breadstick experience – guaranteed to impress your guests!

See Complete Recipe
4 Hours Or Less Course Vegan North American

Bean Hotpot

Inspired by Karen Martini's Better Homes and Gardens recipe, this hearty bean hotpot is a flavor explosion! While it simmers, the rich and complex flavors develop, creating a dish well worth the time. This adaptable recipe uses readily available ingredients and allows you to adjust the spice level to your preference. Serve it over fluffy rice with a vibrant avocado-lime salsa and creamy yogurt for a truly unforgettable meal.

See Complete Recipe
Vegetables African Vegetarian Course

Baby Spinach And Lentil Salad

This vibrant Baby Spinach and Lentil Salad is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying meal or side dish. The earthy lentils are perfectly complemented by the fresh spinach, tangy feta, and aromatic herbs. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. Get ready to impress your taste buds!

See Complete Recipe