Fennel is one of those vegetables that may seem mysterious to some. It has a strong, licorice-like flavor, but what exactly does it taste like?
This cruciferous vegetable consists of a bulb, long stalks, and feathery fronds. It can be eaten raw or cooked, making it an excellent addition to salads.
Anise
Fennel has a flavor similar to celery and anise and can be eaten either raw or cooked. It belongs to the carrot family and features bulbous vegetables with light feathery leaves that resemble dill.
Savory dishes often incorporate fennel. Try this roasted fennel pot roast with pork chops and apples (via Food & Wine). Additionally, it makes for a great palate cleanser after eating a meal with strong flavors.
Anise and fennel share a similar appearance and flavor profile, though anise is much stronger in the aroma. The flavor of anise comes from an ingredient called anethole which also appears in star anise and fennel seeds.
Anethole has a strong flavor, but it isn’t overpowering. Instead, it adds an understated and subtle hint that helps balance other spices. Anise adds sweetness, herbality, and subtle heat to dishes while fennel provides more delicate notes in dishes that require more subtlety.
Anethole is an extremely potent antioxidant, helping to prevent heart disease, cancer, and obesity. As an anti-inflammatory, it may alleviate chronic cough, bad breath, and indigestion. Anethole has no side effects when taken in moderate amounts – making it suitable for most people.
Licorice
Fennel and licorice share a flavor that is sweet, warm, and slightly bitter. This sweetness comes from their common compound called anethole; this same compound gives licorice its characteristic taste.
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is an herb used to treat various ailments such as respiratory problems and digestive distress. Studies have demonstrated its powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects; however, further human trials are needed to confirm these benefits.
One study revealed that licorice root extract may help slow the progression of several respiratory diseases in animals. These results could suggest licorice root extract can provide relief from coughing, bronchitis, and asthma symptoms.
Further studies are necessary to establish the effectiveness of licorice in treating these conditions. People should only use it if their doctor recommends it as a remedy.
Black licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which can have severe side effects. Excess of this chemical may lead to low potassium levels, high blood pressure, heart arrhythmia, or even death. Furthermore, black licorice may interact with certain medications, herbs, and dietary supplements; if you take any medication that interacts with black licorice it’s wise to discuss your concerns with your doctor prior to eating it.
Licorice often contains sugar, corn syrup, and glucose syrups as sweeteners. These ingredients enhance the flavor and make it more chewable on the tongue – thus why they’re commonly used. Other sweeteners may occasionally appear in specialty products.
Celery
Fennel is a crunchy green vegetable with an intriguing flavor, often described as a combination of celery, anise, and licorice. This versatile herb can be used in various dishes like soups, stews, and salads alike.
Fennel is an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, similar to celery. Additionally, it supplies nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
Fennel has a sweet, anise-like flavor that may be slightly spicy for some people. That’s why many people opt to substitute other spices in their favorite recipes – whether that be salads, soups, or stews – instead of adding fennel.
Though most recipes call for the bulb, fronds, and stalks are also edible. You can save them for decoration or use them as the basis of a pesto. Furthermore, they can be sauteed along with other vegetables to create an easy side dish.
Fennel bulb has a flavor profile similar to celery, yet it has more bite. It can be used in raw salads and slaws as well as grilled meats for its crunchy texture.
Fennel can also be enjoyed in soups or stocks when combined with celery. You could also make a simple hummus using just fennel and celery, or try making one that includes avocado and cilantro for extra flavor.
Dill
Fennel may look similar to dill in appearance, with its feathery fronds and light green color. Both plants belong to the Apiaceae family, yet their flavors differ dramatically!
Dill has a grassy, slightly bitter flavor that is milder than that of fennel, which possesses more intense aromatic notes. While dill is commonly used in lighter dishes, fennel shines when used for heartier recipes that call for stronger flavors.
Fennel may seem like an unusual vegetable, but we love using it in salads and slaws. If you have never had it before, it will likely take some getting used to its unique taste.
Thinly sliced raw fennel bulb adds a sweet, licorice flavor to salads and provides crunch. You can braize, sautee, or roast it until tender; alternatively, you can slice its stalks and fronds and incorporate them into recipes like pasta and soups.
No matter how you prepare it, fennel is packed with beneficial nutrients that can enhance your well-being in numerous ways. For instance, it contains molybdenum which aids in eliminating toxins and improving cholesterol levels as well as blood pressure.
It’s also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals like manganese, folate, and copper. Furthermore, the high fiber content helps you feel full for longer while improving digestion.