How to Freeze Fennel Bulbs

Save fennel bulbs for up to six months in the freezer for use beyond the harvest season. Carefully seal and store your fennel bulbs to protect their flavor and texture from the elements of your freezer. Having fennel sliced and ready to add to soups and and meat dishes saves time and adds a subtle complexity to the food. Freeze your fennel bulbs to prevent spoiling and waste when your grow produces more than you are able to use in a week. Does this Spark an idea?

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Fennel bulbs
Running water
Chef's knife
Cutting board
Large stock pot
4 tbsp. salt
Stove
Strainer
Plastic zip top freezer bags
Cup measurement

Instructions

- 1
  
  Clean your fennel bulbs under running water. Peel away the outer layer of leaves to reveal the tender core. Leaving behind dirt on the bulb will give it an unappealing gritty texture.
- 2
  
  Use a sharp chef's knife on a large cutting board to thinly slice your fennel bulbs. Slicing the fennel bulb will increase its surface area for faster cooking and freezing and thawing.
- 3
  
  Add 4 tbsp. of salt and at least 4 quarts of water to a large stock pot. Allow it to come to a rolling boil over high heat. Adding salt to the water will season your fennel bulbs and raise the boiling temperature of the water for a faster blanch.
- 4
  
  Slide your sliced fennel bulbs into the salty boiling water for a quick 30 second blanch. Strain the water and spread the steaming slices over the large cutting board to allow them to cool and dry.
- 5
  
  Fill several plastic zip top freezer bags with 1 or 2 cup portion sizes of your softened fennel bulb. Remove as much air as possible by pressing the bag together before sealing the top. Trapped air will cause freezer burn and change the flavor of the effected fennel.

Tips & Warnings

Labeling your fennel portions with dates showing when they where frozen will help you determine what is still usable.
Create your own frozen vegetable blend by combining sliced fennel bulb with your favorite blanched vegetables before freezing.
Give a couple bags of frozen prepared fennel as a gift to friends and coworkers so they are able to enjoy the flavors of your garden.

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How Do I Freeze or Preserve Fennel Bulbs?

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