Can The ‘Fluffy Top’ of Fennel Be Used?
Answered by: Yvonne Tremblay
Question from: Mary Flaig
Posted on: January 16, 2005

Could you please tell me if the fluffy top (sorry, I don’t know what it’s called) of fennel is edible? If so, how might it be used?

There are two types of fennel, the one you are speaking of, that has a bulbous base and is eaten as a vegetable. The plant is known as Florence fennel (also called finocchio) and the base, stems and feathery foliage are all useable. Use the "fluffy top" snipped in salads, or add to hot dishes just before serving, also makes a pretty garnish. The other type, common fennel, is bulbless and produces seeds that are used whole or ground, in cooking as well as the feathery leaves. For more information/question on the herb fennel, please see:

http://www.richters.com/show.cgi?page=./QandA/Culinary/20031016-1.html

http://www.richters.com/show.cgi?page=./QandA/Culinary/20000913-1.html

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