For best results, use a mandoline to ensure even slicing, which promotes even cooking. Don't overcrowd the pan! Cooking in batches allows the fennel to properly caramelize. Feel free to experiment with other seasonings, such as red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This dish is delicious served as a side dish or as part of a larger antipasto platter.
Pan-Fried Fennel
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PREP TIME5 mins
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COOK TIME20 mins
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TOTAL TIME25 mins
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SERVING4 People
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VIEWS24
Unlock the subtle anise sweetness of fennel with this simple yet elegant pan-frying technique. The gentle heat coaxes out the vegetable's inherent flavors, creating a caramelized exterior and a tender, aromatic heart. A sprinkle of fresh fennel fronds and a touch of lemon pepper provide the perfect finishing touch.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate17 g
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Fiber7 g
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Protein3 g
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Saturated Fat1 g
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Sodium215 mg
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Sugar0 g
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Fat11 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepPrepare the Fennel: Thinly slice the fennel bulbs using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Roughly chop the reserved fennel fronds and set aside. (5 minutes)
02
StepFirst Sauté: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add a single layer of fennel slices to the pan, being careful not to overcrowd. (2 minutes)
03
StepSauté & Season: Cook the fennel slices until golden brown and caramelized on both sides, flipping occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Season with sea salt and lemon pepper to taste. Remove the cooked fennel from the pan and set aside.
04
StepRepeat Sautéing: Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and repeat the process with the remaining fennel slices, cooking in batches to ensure even browning. (5-7 minutes per batch)
05
StepFinal Touches: Once all the fennel is cooked, return all the slices to the pan for a final toss. Sprinkle with the chopped fennel fronds and serve immediately. (2 minutes)
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Bernice Johnston
Jun 30, 2025The lemon pepper is the perfect touch.
Delaney Halvorson
Jun 23, 2025I added a little garlic to the pan for extra flavor, and it was delicious.
Leonor Renner
Jun 16, 2025The caramelized flavor is amazing. I never knew fennel could taste this good!
Bernadine Jakubowski
Jun 9, 2025My kids actually ate their vegetables! This is a win!
Ellie Cremin
May 19, 2025The tip about adding butter at the end is a game-changer!
Ron Luettgenhudson
May 13, 2025This recipe is so easy, and the fennel turns out perfectly every time!
Samara Moen
Mar 16, 2025Simple, elegant, and bursting with flavor. This will be a regular on my dinner table.