Fennel
Loose, Tray covered with film
Bernardi, B*Green
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JAN | FEB | MAR | APR | MAY | JUN | JUL | AUG | SEP | OCT | NOV | DEC |
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare, belonging to the family of Apiaceae) grows mainly in the Mediterranean region and mild climate areas. It is harvested in summer and its production extends throughout the entire year, both open air and greenhouse seeding, preferably with direct sunlight.
Fennel can be stored in refrigerator inside a perforated plastic bag. Should you want to preserve it for a longer time, it is recommended to blanch it for 4-5 minutes, better if cut into pieces.
Where does the Italian term “infinocchiare” come from?
In Ancient Rome, fennel was used to cover the bad smell and taste of not-fresh food. It seems that the term “infinocchiare” (literally, “to cover with fennel”; figuratively, “to hoodwink” or “bamboozle”) was born from this culinary trickery. In the same way, the innkeeper offered fennel seeds to less experienced purchaser of wine to mask the bad smells and tastes of defective wine.
Fennel, the symbol of regeneration
Fennel is a symbol of rebirth and spiritual regeneration. According to the ancient folklore tradition, it is said that snakes, after the skin change, rub against the fennel plant to regain sight.
August is the best month to try fennel-based gastronomic specialties. We recommend the food festival of Pergola (Pesaro-Urbino, Marche): three days of tastings and entertainment.