Fennel Bulb

What Is Fennel Bulb?

Fennel bulb (Foeniculum vulgare var. azoricum) is a white-green vegetable formed by the swollen, overlapping leaf bases of the fennel plant above ground. It is also known as Florence fennel or by the Italian name finocchio; unlike fennel seed, which is used as a spice, this vegetable is the part eaten.

It is noted for its crisp, juicy texture and refreshing, mildly sweet flavor reminiscent of anise. Eaten raw, it is crunchy and refreshing; when cooked, it softens and becomes sweeter, making it a versatile vegetable.

Fennel Bulb Nutrition Facts

Like other juicy vegetables, fennel bulb is low in calories, providing approximately 31 kcal per 100 g; it is high in water and contains vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Values are approximate and based on a similar profile.

What Are the Benefits of Fennel Bulb?

With its low calorie content and high water and fiber content, fennel bulb can be part of a balanced diet rich in vegetables.

This is general information; fennel bulb is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Fennel Bulb

A good fennel bulb is white and glossy, firm, crisp, and uncracked, with fresh-looking green stalks. Avoid specimens that are yellowed, soft, or spotted.

• The bulb should be white, firm, and crisp
• The green stalks on top should look fresh
• Do not choose one that is yellowed or soft

How to Store Fennel Bulb

Store fennel bulb in the refrigerator crisper for a few days; removing the long stalks on top and keeping them separately helps the bulb stay fresh longer. Since a cut surface can darken, refresh it slightly before use.

How to Use Fennel Bulb in the Kitchen

Thinly sliced fennel bulb is used raw in salads, often with orange and olive oil; it is also roasted, grilled, sautéed, and served as a side dish with fish. Cooking softens its anise flavor and brings out its natural sweetness; the stalks and feathery leaves can also be used for flavor.

How to Clean Fennel Bulb

Remove the stalks and any tough, fibrous outer layer; cut the bulb lengthwise, remove the hard core in the center, and slice it thinly. For salad, a short soak in ice water makes it crisper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fennel bulb and fennel seed the same?

They come from the same plant but are used differently: fennel bulb is eaten as a vegetable, while fennel seed is used as a spice. Both have an anise-like aroma.

Can fennel bulb be eaten raw?

Yes. Thinly slice it and eat it raw in salad for a crisp, refreshing texture. When cooked, it softens and becomes sweeter.

What does fennel bulb taste like?

It has a refreshing, mildly sweet flavor reminiscent of anise; the flavor is more pronounced raw and softens when cooked.