Fennel from France

Tasting Notes from the Curator

French fennel stands out with its distinctive sweet anise flavor that’s more refined and balanced than varieties from other regions. The bulb presents a bright white color with light green accents near the stalks, and offers a satisfying crunch when eaten raw. This crispness is similar to celery but without stringiness, making it excellent for fresh preparations.

When thinly sliced, the fennel releases its characteristic licorice aroma that hints at its flavor profile. This isn’t an overwhelming anise punch but rather a gentle sweetness with herbal complexity. The French varieties are particularly prized for their delicate balance - sweet without being cloying, aromatic without being overpowering.

Cooking transforms the fennel dramatically. The crisp texture softens into tender, almost silky layers, while the flavor mellows into a subtle sweetness. The anise notes become more rounded and integrate beautifully with other ingredients. This transformation is especially notable in French fennel, where the natural sugars caramelize beautifully when roasted or braised.

The fennel fronds shouldn’t be overlooked either. These feathery green tops carry a more concentrated anise flavor and make a beautiful herb-like garnish. Their delicate appearance belies their aromatic impact, adding both visual appeal and a flavor accent to finished dishes.

Pairings and Preparation

French fennel works wonderfully in both raw and cooked applications:

Raw uses:

• Simple salads - Slice thinly and toss with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt for a refreshing side
• Citrus pairings - Combine with orange segments, olives, and a light vinaigrette
• Crudité platters - Serve crisp fennel wedges alongside dips

Cooked preparations:

• Braised fennel - Cook slowly with white wine until tender for a delicious side dish
• Roasted fennel - Caramelize at high heat with olive oil for sweet, concentrated flavor
• Soups and stews - Add to fish soups or vegetable stews for aromatic depth

Fennel pairs exceptionally well with seafood, particularly white fish and shellfish. The sweet anise notes complement the briny flavors of the ocean. It also works beautifully with citrus fruits, particularly oranges and lemons, which highlight its freshness.

For meat pairings, consider pork or chicken dishes where fennel can add aromatic complexity. Herbs that work well with fennel include thyme, parsley, and basil.

The Mediterranean Connection

Fennel has been a staple of Mediterranean cooking for centuries, particularly in French coastal cuisine. Along the shores of Provence, fennel grows wild and has been incorporated into traditional dishes for generations.

French fishermen historically used fennel in their famous fish stews like bouillabaisse, where its sweet anise flavor helps balance the richness of various seafood. The vegetable became so integral to the regional cuisine that many classic Provençal dishes feature fennel as a key ingredient rather than just a flavoring component.

What makes French fennel distinctive is the terroir - the combination of climate, soil, and traditional growing methods. The hot, dry Mediterranean summers and mineral-rich soil contribute to fennel with concentrated flavor and sturdy texture. French farmers typically harvest fennel at the peak of maturity, selecting for both size and flavor quality.

This cultivation knowledge has been passed down through generations, resulting in fennel that embodies the essence of French Mediterranean cooking - simple ingredients treated with respect to highlight their natural qualities.

Storage Instructions

Store unwashed fennel bulbs in a perforated plastic bag in the refrigerator crisper drawer, where they will stay fresh for up to one week. Trim off the green fronds and store them separately wrapped in slightly damp paper towels if you plan to use them as a herb garnish.