Unlock the Flavor of Fennel: A Simple yet Elegant Side Dish
Fennel, a humble vegetable often overlooked, can be transformed into a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth side dish with just a few simple ingredients. The key to unlocking its flavor lies in the art of braising, which coaxes out its natural sweetness and pairs it with rich, earthy notes.
The Magic of Brown Butter and Orange
In this recipe, we’re elevating fennel to new heights by combining it with the deep, nutty flavor of brown butter and the bright, citrusy zing of orange juice and zest. The result is a dish that’s both comforting and sophisticated, perfect for any occasion.
A Recipe for Success
To make this dish, you’ll need:
- 2 large or 4 small fennel bulbs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/2 stick)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable stock
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- Finely grated zest of 1 orange
Preparing the Fennel
Begin by trimming the fennel bulbs, reserving some of the fronds for garnish. Cut the bulbs lengthwise into thick wedges and sprinkle them with salt.
Browning the Butter
In a large frying pan over medium heat, melt the butter. Let it cook for a minute or so until it starts to brown, releasing its nutty aroma. This step is crucial, as it sets the tone for the entire dish.
Adding the Fennel and Liquid
Place the fennel wedges cut-side-down in the pan in a single layer. Let them cook, without moving, until browned on one side, about 3 minutes. Turn and brown the other side, about 3 minutes. Then, add the stock and orange juice to the pan, and sprinkle the fennel wedges with orange zest.
The Final Touches
Cover the pan and simmer over medium-low heat until the fennel is tender, about 5 minutes. Serve, garnished with a sprinkling of the reserved fronds.
This recipe yields 4 servings and can be prepared in just 35 minutes, with 20 minutes of active cooking time. It’s an easy and impressive side dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
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