Fennel is one of those vegetables that I always passed by in the store with nary a thought to what it was, or how to use it. Only recently did I start to investigate this interesting and pretty little thing. Somewhere deep in my subconscious was likely floating around the memory of someone once telling me that fennel tasted like licorice. Seeing as true licorice (that awful black stuff) was clearly made by the devil, and embodies all the foul and putrid things in the world, it was no wonder I overlooked this plant (Sorry if you like black licorice, it’s just really very gross. In the Netherlands they eat salted black licorice. Someone once made me taste one of these vile “candies”, and well… the memory is a dark one).

A little digging unearthed the fact that licorice is in fact NOT the same as fennel, or anise for that matter, which fennel is often mislabeled as. Fennel, anise, and star anise all share similar flavors, which is why they are often confused with each other.

Fennel is highly aromatic, and has not only culinary uses, but a long history of medicinal uses as well. Fennel is more mild in flavor than anise, and yes, does have a mild licorice flavor, but it’s sweet and mellow. The entire plant is edible, the seeds collected, dried and used in a variety of cultures around the world. Featured prominently in Italian cuisine (think meatballs and sausages for the seeds, and pastas, salads, and risottos for the bulb).

Its medicinal qualities range from easing flatulence (a primary ingredient in Gripe Water for babies), to treating hypertension. Fennel tea for adults can relax the intestines (yikes!) and reduce bloating caused by digestive disorders.

Loaded with Vitamin C, fennel is also a great source of fiber, folate and potassium. Here are some random facts about fennel!

• Often used as a flavoring in toothpaste
• Is a primary ingredient in absinthe
• Plain water drunk after eating fennel seeds in extremely sweet!

If you’re looking for ways to experiment with fennel (I don’t mean absinthe!), here are a few suggestions:

• Sauteed onions and fennel make a great side dish
• Braised fennel is a wonderful compliment to scallops
• Top thinly sliced fennel with yogurt and mint leaves
• Fennel and salmon pair perfectly