Baked fennel with cheese
2 servings
50 minutes
Baked fennel with cheese is an exquisite dish of French cuisine that reveals the delicate sweetness of fennel, highlighted by the aroma of lemon zest and a crispy cheese crust. Historically, French gastronomes valued the combination of simple ingredients to create elegant and balanced flavor compositions. Baked fennel becomes tender with light anise notes, while Parmesan adds richness and umami. The dish is perfect as a side for fish or chicken and also serves as a light snack on its own. It emphasizes the French love for fresh ingredients and attention to detail in cooking. Its simple yet refined presentation makes it an excellent choice for bistro-style dinners or cozy home gatherings.
1
Slice the fennel thinly and lightly boil in hot, but not boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Fennel: 2 pieces
2
Meanwhile, preheat the oven to 200 degrees, grease a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of oil, and prepare the fennel mixture. For this, mix 4 tablespoons of oil, fennel seeds, grated lemon zest, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Extra virgin olive oil: 5 tablespoon
- Fennel seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Lemon: 1 piece
- Cane sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 0.5 teaspoon
- Ground black pepper: to taste
3
After 10 minutes, drain the fennel in a colander, lightly dry it, spread it on a baking sheet, and brush with the prepared mixture.
- Extra virgin olive oil: 5 tablespoon
4
Place in a preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes.
5
Sprinkle grated Parmesan 5 minutes before it's ready.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 80 g
