By Tom Midford
Fennel Gratin Recipe
Ingredients
1½ lb. fennel (about 2 large bulbs), stalks removed, halved lengthwise, and cut into ½ wedges
2 cups heavy cream
3 garlic cloves, peeled and chopped
½-1 teaspoon chopped rosemary
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
1½ cups finely grated Parmesan, divided
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
¼ cup bread crumbs
Directions
Heat oven to 425°F. Place fennel in a medium size 3-qt casserole dish, sprinkle over rosemary, garlic, chili flakes, salt and pepper to taste and 1 cup of the Parmesan. Pour cream over it and toss everything to combine. Dot with butter. Cover dish with foil; bake for 60 minutes.
Uncover baking dish; combine remaining remaining Parmesan and bread crumbs and sprinkle over top and until golden and bubbling and fennel is tender about 20-30 more minutes. Allow to cool a few minutes then serve and enjoy with Garnish with rosemary and, if desired, the snipped reserved fennel fronds.
Fennel Health Benefits
Fennel is a potentially-rich source of Vitamin C.
Fennel may prevent anemia.
Fennel has anti-indigestion properties.
Fennel can be used to fight flatulence.
Fennel might reduce the risk of heart diseases.
Fennel may work against cancer.
Fennel might help regulate blood pressure.
Citations
15 Impressive Benefits of Fennel. (2021, July 16). Organic Facts. https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/health-benefits-of-fennel.html
Fennel Gratin (Finoccio al Forno). (n.d.). Olive & Mango. https://www.oliveandmango.com/fennel-gratin-finoccio-al-forno/