Organic Fennel
For Chefs & Produce Managers Food Service: 323-584-4940 Produce Managers: 800-468-7111
Seasonality: Year Round
Origin: USA
Dating back as far as 1500 B.C., Fennel has long been enjoyed by the Italians, the French, the Greeks, and the Chinese.
Fennel is a rather unusual looking vegetable. Its base resembles celery and its leaves look like dill. It also has a curiously sweet taste and smell, similar to sweet licorice. Neglected Fennel seeds, which are popular in Southeast Asian cooking, can be used to flavor both confections and drinks, as well as added to many savory dishes.
Melissa’s Organic Fennel is often substituted for celery in many recipes but has a variety of uses on its own. They are great with salad, sandwiches, seafood, and yogurt. For a simple and healthy side dish, sauté the fennel with onions, and serve.
Choose fresh looking Organic Fennel with good color and a clean, fresh scent. Avoid any brown spots or wilted stalks or leaves. Use soon after purchasing. To revive wilted leaves, place in an ice water bath.
The preparation of Organic Fennel is similar to celery. Cut off the stems and leaves, remove the knob-like core in the base, and remove any strings.