Fennel

Description

Fennel has a characteristic, firm white bulb with green stalks and feathery leaves; its flavor is mildly sweet with a distinct hint of anise and licorice, and when raw, it has a crunchy, juicy texture, becoming soft and creamier after cooking. Fennel is low in calories, rich in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, folic acid, and phenolic compounds, including anethole, which have antioxidant properties; regular consumption may aid digestion, reduce bloating, have anti-inflammatory effects, and positively impact the cardiovascular system. In the kitchen, fennel works well raw in salads and carpaccio, as an accompaniment to fish, seafood, oranges, and olives, as well as roasted, braised, or in soups and stews; the seeds are an aromatic spice accent. Store whole, unwashed fennel in a cool drawer of the refrigerator in a perforated bag, separating the leaves and using them within a few days, while the bulb will stay fresh for about 1–2 weeks.