**Fennel: A Versatile Vegetable with a Unique Flavor Profile**
Fennel, a Mediterranean vegetable with a sweet and slightly bitter licorice flavor, is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed cooked or raw. This vegetable offers a range of health benefits, including improved digestion and reduced inflammation. Whether you're looking for a light and refreshing salad or a hearty and flavorful side dish, fennel has a recipe to suit every taste. From a simple roasted fennel with olive oil and herbs to a more complex fennel gratin with cheese and breadcrumbs, the possibilities are endless. Fennel's unique flavor also pairs well with seafood, making it a great addition to dishes like grilled salmon or pan-seared scallops. With its distinct taste and versatility, fennel is sure to become a new staple in your kitchen.
THE BEST ROASTED FENNEL
Fennel sometimes plays second fiddle to other vegetables, but it is the true star in this simple but impressive side dish. Roasting the fennel until tender and almost creamy mellows its usual licorice flavor and brings out a touch of natural sweetness. Even if you don't normally like fennel, give this delicious dish a try. You might be surprised.
Provided by Food Network Kitchen
Categories side-dish
Time 55m
Yield 4 servings
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 475 degrees F.
- Pick 2 tablespoons of the tender green fronds from the tops of the fennel bulbs and set aside. Cut the remaining top and bottom from each fennel bulb, then cut the bulb in half lengthwise through the core. Use the tip of the knife to cut an upside-down "V" on the bottom of each bulb to remove most of the core, leaving just enough so the bulb stays intact. Cut each half through the core into wedges, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Add the fennel bulb, thyme, garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes and 3/4 teaspoon salt to a large bowl and toss until evenly coated. Transfer to a rimmed baking sheet.
- Roast in the oven until the fennel is very tender and lightly browned in spots, 30 to 35 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, top with the reserved fennel fronds and serve with the lemon wedges.
SIDE OF FENNEL
Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a mortar and pestle, pound the garlic and fennel fronds. Add salt and a little olive oil to the garlic mixture.
- Heat a little olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and evenly brown the fennel pieces. Transfer the fennel to a baking sheet and rub with the garlic mixture. Add the water and cover with aluminum foil. Bake until you can pierce the fennel with a fork. Remove the foil and finish roasting until all the liquid has cooked away.
- This recipe was provided by professional chefs and has been scaled down from a bulk recipe provided by a restaurant. The Food Network Kitchens chefs have not tested this recipe, in the proportions indicated, and therefore, we cannot make any representation as to the results.
Tips:
- Choose the right fennel: Look for bulbs that are firm and have a bright white color. Avoid any bulbs that are bruised or have brown spots.
- Trim the fennel: Cut off the root end and any tough outer leaves. Then, slice the bulb in half lengthwise and remove the core.
- Cook the fennel: Fennel can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, sautéing, grilling, and braising. The cooking time will vary depending on the method you choose.
- Season the fennel: Fennel has a mild flavor that can be easily enhanced with a variety of seasonings. Try using salt, pepper, garlic, lemon, or herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Serve the fennel: Fennel can be served as a side dish, appetizer, or main course. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, including fish, chicken, pork, and beef.
Conclusion:
Fennel is a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Whether you are roasting it, sautéing it, or grilling it, fennel is a great addition to any meal. So next time you are looking for a healthy and flavorful side dish, give fennel a try!
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