Fennel Bulb

Fennel bulb is a crisp, slightly sweet vegetable with a licorice-like flavor that is used in a variety of culinary applications. It is in season from fall through spring, with its peak season being in the winter. Fennel is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly Italian and French dishes. It can be eaten raw in salads, braised, sautéed, roasted, or added to soups and stews. The fronds can also be used as an herb-like garnish or seasoning.

Fennel Bulb Synonyms

Anise
Florence fennel
Finocchio

Different Forms/Types of Fennel Bulb

Seeds

Dried fennel seeds, which are aromatic and flavorful, used as a spice in cooking and baking.

Frozen

Fennel that has been blanched and frozen, which can be a convenient option when fresh fennel is out of season.

Ground

Fennel seeds that have been ground into a powder, convenient for adding a sweet fennel flavor to dishes without the texture of whole seeds.

Fresh bulbs

Fennel bulbs are crisp and aromatic, used both raw in salads or cooked in a variety of dishes.

Sliced or Chopped

Pre-cut fennel for convenience, often found in the fresh produce section, suitable for quick use in cooking.

How to Choose Fennel Bulb

When selecting fresh fennel bulbs, look for ones that are clean, firm, and solid, without signs of splitting, bruising, or spotting. The bulbs should be white or pale green with no brown spots. Fresh fennel should have a fragrant aroma, smelling subtly of licorice or anise. The stalks should be relatively straight and bundled together, not splayed out widely, which can indicate age. The fronds should be green, feathery, and dill-like, without yellowing. For fennel seeds, choose those that are greenish or tan in color and have a potent smell. Avoid seeds that look faded as they may be old and have lost their flavor.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Fennel Bulb

Fennel bulb is a versatile vegetable that can add a unique anise-like flavor to a variety of dishes. When preparing fennel, it's important to slice the bulb thinly for even cooking and to maximize its delicate flavor. The stalks and fronds can be used as well, with the fronds making a great aromatic garnish. Fennel's texture can vary greatly with different cooking methods, from crunchy when raw to tender when braised. To enhance its natural sweetness, consider caramelizing fennel by slow-roasting or sautéing.

Shelf Life of Fennel Bulb

Fresh fennel bulbs should be stored in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator, wrapped in a paper towel and placed inside a perforated plastic bag to last for about a week. It's important not to wash fennel until you're ready to use it to prevent premature spoilage. Fennel seeds and ground fennel should be stored in airtight containers in a cool, dark place to maintain their flavor for up to six months. Frozen fennel can be kept in the freezer for up to six months. Always label and date your frozen items to keep track of their freshness.

Recommended Brands for Fennel Bulb

fennel seeds: Simply Organic

ground fennel: McCormick

Cooking Techniques for Fennel Bulb

Braising: Braising fennel in a flavorful liquid like wine, broth, or a mixture of both allows it to become tender and fully infused with the braising flavors. This method is perfect for creating a rich side dish or a base for fish or meat.

Roasting: Roasting fennel bulbs brings out their natural sweetness and softens their texture. Cut the bulb into wedges, toss with olive oil and seasoning, and roast at 400°F (200°C) until tender and golden, about 25-30 minutes.

Sautéing: For a quicker method that retains some bite, sauté thinly sliced fennel in olive oil over medium heat until it's softened and fragrant, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. This method is ideal for incorporating fennel into pastas or risottos.

Popular Fennel Bulb Recipes

Fennel and Orange Salad
Braised Fennel with Parmesan
Fennel and Sausage Risotto

Fennel Bulb Nutritional Information (100g)

fat: 0.2 g
fiber: 3.1 g
sugar: 3.93 g
protein: 1.24 g
calories: 31 kcal
carbohydrates: 7.3 g

Flavor Combinations

Fennel pairs well with citrus fruits, particularly orange, which complements its anise flavor. It also goes well with tomatoes, olives, and capers, offering a Mediterranean flair. Fennel can be paired with pork, fish, and seafood, enhancing their flavors. Herbs such as dill, parsley, and tarragon work nicely with fennel, as do spices like coriander and fennel seeds themselves, which can amplify the vegetable's natural flavor profile.

Allergen Information

Fennel allergies are rare but can occur. Those with a sensitivity to carrots or celery may also react to fennel due to a cross-reactivity within the Apiaceae family.

Ingredient Comparisons

Fennel Bulb vs Celery

Recipes with Fennel Bulb

Sautéed Swiss Chard with Fennel and Smoked Paprika

Herb Salad with Shaved Fennel