Fennel seed oil
Food-grade fennel seed oil is a culinary fat that carries flavours and adds richness to dressings, emulsions and cooking. Use only a product explicitly labelled for food use; this entry does not refer to concentrated essential oil.
What it offers and why to use it
Fluid and coating in texture, with flavours ranging from neutral to fruity, herbal or toasted.
From shopping to cooking
Choose
When buying fennel seed oil, check that it is intended for culinary use, the extraction method, best-before date and protection from light. For uncooked dishes, look for a clean aroma without rancid notes.
Store
Keep tightly closed in a cool, dry, dark place away from the hob. Cold temperatures may make it cloudy without indicating spoilage.
Prepare
Use in dressings, marinades, sautéed bases, doughs and cooking, according to the product's intended use. Neutral oils leave other flavours centre stage; aromatic oils often work best as a finishing touch.
How to make the most of it
Good pairings
Pairs with vegetables, pulses, bread, fish, meat, citrus, garlic and herbs.
How to substitute it
Replace fennel seed oil with another oil suitable for the intended use. In baking, melted butter may be an alternative, with adjustments to texture and flavour.
Recipes with fennel seed oil
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