Fennel

The vegetable fennel is a close relation to the herb fennel, and the same feathery leaves can be seen growing from its fat stalks. Also known as Florence fennel, sweet fennel or finocchio, it looks somewhat like a short, bulbous celery plant, but with a distinctive anise flavour.

The leaves may be used as a garnish or to flavour court-bouillons, soups and stocks, whereas the bulb-like stalks may be sliced and served raw in salads, or baked with butter and grated Parmesan cheese. It is a particularly good vegetable to accompany fish.