Braised Fennel with Anchovies
Braising the fennel in this delicious recipe renders it moist and succulent; this incredible texture, combined with its light licorice flavor, makes it the ideal accompaniment for the salty anchovies.
Servings: 6
Calories: 137kcal
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, extra virgin
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
- 4 anchovy fillets, finely chopped
- 2 fennel bulbs, trimmed and sliced
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
- 2 bay leaves
- 0.5 cup dry vermouth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 0.5 cup brown veal stock or mushroom stock
Instructions
- Heat the oil and butter In a sauté pan. Add the onion and carrot, and cook gently until soft but not brown, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the garlic and anchovies, and cook stirring for about a minute.
- Add the sliced fennel, parsley, bay leaves, stock, and vermouth. Simmer covered until fennel is soft, for about 20 minutes. Serve hot as a side dish with chopped parsley over top.
Cooking Tips for Braised Fennel with Anchovies
- Choose Fresh Fennel: Look for bright, firm fennel bulbs without brown spots. Fresh fennel will bring a vibrant flavor to the dish.
- Balance with Anchovies: Anchovies add a salty depth. If you’re hesitant, start with two fillets and adjust to taste once cooked, as the flavor intensifies.
- Vermouth Alternatives: Dry white wine or vegetable stock works as a substitute for vermouth, adding a delicate acidity and enhancing the braised flavors.
- Cook Slowly: Braising gently ensures the fennel becomes tender and develops a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley elevates the dish with color and brightness. Add a sprinkle just before serving to boost flavor and presentation.
- Experiment with Stock: For a vegetarian option, use mushroom stock for an earthy depth that complements the fennel.
Elevate Your Cooking Skills with Our Culinary Courses!
Transform your cooking with Online Culinary School’s courses! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, Chef Eric’s hands-on courses cover essential skills, global cuisines, pastry, sauces, and more. Each course is crafted to inspire and build confidence in the kitchen.
Start your culinary journey today, and don’t forget to visit our YouTube channel for extra tips and tutorials to refine your skills!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enhance your culinary repertoire. Plus, be sure to check out our YouTube channel for expert cooking tips, tutorials, and even more inspiration to refine your skills.