Fennel is a delicious and versatile vegetable with a mild anise flavor. When preserved correctly, it can be stored for up to a year. Here are some steps to help you preserve fennel and keep it fresh for longer.
Choose fennel heads that are firm and free of soft spots or discoloration. Cut off the leaves and rinse with cold water. To clean off the dirt, dip the bulb in a vinegar-water mixture of two parts water and one part vinegar.
Once cleaned, cut the fennel into slices or cubes. Place in a plastic container marked with the date and place in the freezer. To keep the fennel fresh, make sure that the container lid is securely closed.
For pickling, cut the fennel into thin slices. Bring a solution of white vinegar, salt, sugar and water to a boil. Then, add the fennel to the boiling mixture and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10 minutes and then remove from heat. Place the fennel and liquid into a jar and seal tightly. Store in the refrigerator for up to a year.
If you would like to can fennel, cut the fennel into cubes. Boil the cubes in a water and vinegar solution. Once you've cooked them for 10 minutes, remove from heat and place into sterilized jars. In a separate saucepan, bring a mixture of vinegar, sugar and salt to a boil. Pour the liquid over the fennel in the jars and seal the lids. Place the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Once the jars have cooled, store in a cool, dry place for up to a year.