How To Cook Fennel

All you need to know about: How To Cook Fennel.

How to Cook Fennel

Fennel is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in a variety of ways. It has a mild, anise-like flavor that pairs well with many meats, fish, and other vegetables. Whether you’re roasting, sautéing, or grilling, fennel is a great choice for a delicious side dish. Here’s how to prepare fennel for cooking.

Step 1: Clean the Fennel

Before you begin cooking, you need to prepare the fennel. Start by washing it in cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Trim off the stalks and any discolored leaves. Cut off the top of the bulb, just above where the stalks meet. Slice the bulb in half and remove the core. Discard the core and any tough outer layers. Slice, dice, or shred the fennel as desired.

Step 2: Sauté the Fennel

Sautéing is a great way to bring out the flavor of fennel. Heat a few tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the fennel and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s lightly browned and tender, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then add a few tablespoons of water to the pan and cover. Reduce the heat to low and cook for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 3: Roast the Fennel

Roasting fennel brings out its sweet, nutty flavor. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the fennel on the baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, until the fennel is lightly browned and tender.

Step 4: Grill the Fennel

Grilling is a great way to bring out the smoky flavor of fennel. Heat a grill to medium heat. Brush the fennel with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the fennel on the grill and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until lightly charred and tender.

Step 5: Enjoy!

Once the fennel is cooked, you can enjoy it as is or add it to your favorite recipes. Fennel is delicious in salads, soups, stews, sandwiches, and more. Enjoy!