Fennel is a versatile ingredient. Its role in court bouillon and shaved in salads is well recognized. Baby fennel, the miniature relative of the larger bulb, has gained popularity. Unfortunately, in its small state baby fennel is not that tender and delicious. It seems to be all fiber and no flesh. Recently we tried a smaller version of baby fennel. The bulb just shows its shape and since it is so young the fibers we disliked have yet to develop. These just sprouted fennel bulbs show promise in salads and as an accompaniment to just cooked fish and meat. The flavor in these tiny sprouts is intense, an explosive representation of the full grown product.
