by Wendy Frytak, FoodE Expert, Lunds Ford Parkway
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Is there a more Daliesque vegetable than fennel? A mad mishmash of celery stalks and fresh feathery dill protrude from a bulbous base resembling Karl Malden’s nose. Plus, it smells and lasts like sweet licorice. Crazy, cool...huh?
Its taste and appearance may be surreal, but fennel is one of my favorite cool weather veggies. Its celery-like crunch and sweet, delicate licorice flavor add character to raw salads Fennel, Prosciutto, Piave & Pomegranate Salad; Arugula,Citrus and Fennel Salad. If you prefer a creamier texture and sweeter, mellower flavor, simply sauté or braise it for use in soups, sauces Fennel-Almond Pesto with Seared Chicken and side dishes San Marzano Braised Fennel.