Fennel
Availability: September through April
Buying Tips: Fennel is also called finocchio. Buy firm, compact, unblemished bulbs. The fronds, if attached, should be bright green and sprightly.
To Store: Refrigerate in the crisper drawer up to three or four days.
To Prepare: Trim off the fronds, if attached. Rinse fennel under cold running water. Trim the root end and remove the stalks. Cut the bulb lengthwise into wedges or slices; trim the central core.
To Cook: The mild licorice flavor and celerylike texture of fennel is accentuated by roasting.