It has been quite a while since we have been at Summer Jo’s. I can vividly recall how much we enjoyed our experience. The way they are growing, it seems others are also enjoying all they offer.

Fennel Fixins

Caramelized Fennel

In addition to being a great spice, fennel can also be a great ingredient. This week’s recipe is for caramelized fennel, a dish which we think is splendid for the cooler summer evenings. Enjoy!

Ingredients:

2 Fennel Bulbs, trimmed and halved, fronds chopped
1 whole garlic bulb, cloves peeled and separated
2 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
Coarse sea salt
Freshly Milled Black Pepper

Method:

Place the fennel in a heavy 10-inch wide saute pan that will hold it all in a single snug layer.
Place over medium low heat and arrange the fennel bulbs with the cut side up.
Add garlic cloves, oil, and fennel seeds and cook gently for 15 minutes, until well caramelized.
Turn the fennel pieces over and add the water and thyme.
Raise the heat and bring to a boil.
Cover, reduce the heat, and simmer for 15 minutes, until the fennel does not resist the tip of a knife.
Uncover and continue to cook until the juices have thickened into a rich glaze.
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste and serve sprinkled with a few reserved fennel fronds.