To shave fennel, you can follow these steps:
- Cut off the fennel stalks and fronds close to where they connect to the bulb. Save the stalks and fronds for other uses.
- Trim a little bit off the bottom of the fennel bulb to make the bottom stable (and cut away any tough root bits).
- Cut straight down through the root of the fennel bulb to halve it.
- Peel away any wilted outer layers.
- Keep each layer of the fennel bulb intact, instead of cutting it in half like you would when making a smaller dice.
- Use a sharp knife to make thin shavings that look like half moons.
Fennel can be eaten raw, roasted, or cooked in salads, stews, soups, and pasta dishes. It has a slightly sweet, licorice-like taste and is often used as the base for flavorful broths that chefs use to braise fish and meats.
Ingredients or materials for shaving fennel are not necessary, but a sharp knife or a mandoline can be used to make thin shavings.
Positive aspects of fennel include its versatility in cooking and its unique flavor. Negative aspects may include its strong licorice-like taste, which may not be appealing to everyone.
