What Can You Do With Fennel Tops?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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You can mix chopped fronds into

pestos, salsas, stocks, curries, and vinaigrettes

for an added hit of freshness. You can use them to top yogurt dips, eggs, stir-fries, toasts, and seared meats. And they're delicious when tossed into green salads or strewn on top of roasted vegetables.

Can you freeze fennel fronds?

Fennel stalks and fronds

freeze well

. Simply rinse them in a cool stream of water, and then place them in freezer-safe bag or container. Due to its high water content, freezing the bulb will change its texture.

What part of fennel is edible?

Technically speaking, all parts of the plant are edible, but most people will find the stalks too tough and fibrous to eat. The leaves can be chopped and used to flavor salads, dressings, marinades and sauces. They tend to have a slightly more citrusy flavor than the base.

The base (or bulb) is delicious

raw or cooked.

How do you store fennel leaves?

To store fennel, trim the fronds to two or three inches above the bulb (if not already done). Wrap loosely in a plastic bag and

store in the fridge for 5 days or 10 days

if you're getting fennel direct from the garden or farmer.

Can you juice fennel stalks?

Many people are surprised to hear I juice fennel. While I love cooking with fennel in soups and stews, shaved raw salads, and as a standalone vegetable, juicing highlights it lightly licorice flavor. Instead of discarding the top stalks and fronds that you don't cook with them, use them for juicing.

Is any part of fennel poisonous?

All parts of the fennel plant—

bulb

, stalk, and the feathery fronds—are edible, and will add texture and flavor to salads, slaws, pastas, and more. Thinly sliced raw fennel bulb adds a sweet licorice flavor and crunchy texture to salads.

Can you eat fennel raw?

Fennel is a delicious and versatile vegetable. … The fennel bulb is enjoyed raw, where its anise flavor is most pronounced, and cooked for a sweeter, mellower version of itself. But don't pitch the rest! The

entire fennel plant is not only edible but delicious

.

How long is fennel good for?

Although you can store it wrapped in a brown paper bag on the counter for 2-3 days, you can also extend its shelf life up to

7-12 days

total by covering it with a moistened kitchen towel, and keeping it in the fridge. Freezing it is another idea that works out fine.

How do you freeze fennel without blanching?

Best Freezing Method(s):

Bags: It's

not necessary

to blanch fennel leaves before freezing. Just place washed, blotted dry leaves directly into bags or containers, seal and freeze.

How do you preserve wild fennel?

Preserving Fennel:

My favorite way to preserve Fennel is to

infuse the dried fronds/seeds in Vinegars

. The fronds can be placed in the jars and add a really pretty touch. You can use Fennel to make a medicinal tincture OR you can use it as a drink!

Do you need to refrigerate fennel?

The most ideal and popular method of storing fennel is

in the refrigerator

. Although refrigerating it may seem like an easy option, if not done properly, fennel can easily become soft and acquire brown spots. Loosely wrap the fennel in a plastic bag and then place it in the vegetable drawer.

What can be used instead of fennel?

  • Celery (raw in salads) A good fennel substitute when it's used raw? …
  • Yellow or white onion (fennel bulb that's cooked) The best fennel substitute for cooked dishes like soups and stews? …
  • Leek (fennel bulb that's cooked) …
  • Caraway seeds () …
  • Anise seeds (fennel seed)

What are the benefits of fennel?

The fiber, potassium, folate, vitamin C, vitamin B-6, and phytonutrient content in fennel, coupled with its lack of cholesterol, all

support heart health

. Fennel contains significant amounts of fiber. Fiber decreases the risk of heart disease as it helps reduce the total amount of cholesterol in the blood.

How much fennel should I juice?

One medium fennel bulb (about the size of a fist) will yield

3 to 4 ounces of juice

. This serving provides sufficient amounts of fennel's nutrients.

What does fennel tea do?

Share on Pinterest Fennel tea may

aid healthy digestion

, and treat bloating, gas, or cramps, and may also act as a diuretic. According to herbalists, fennel seed is an effective aid to digestion. It can help the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal system relax and reduce gas, bloating, and stomach cramps.

Can I use the top of fennel?

Don't Throw Out Those Fennel Fronds! They're Tasty! You

can use fennel fronds like any tender herb

. And if you already bought the fennel, they're free!

Sophia Kim
Author
Sophia Kim
Sophia Kim is a food writer with a passion for cooking and entertaining. She has worked in various restaurants and catering companies, and has written for several food publications. Sophia's expertise in cooking and entertaining will help you create memorable meals and events.