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How to Cut Fennel

By chef Henry

Wondering how to cut fennel but not sure of the best way? I love this vegetable in a refreshing fennel salad or as tender roasted fennel. But it can be tricky to cut! Here’s my method for how to cut a fennel bulb, including how to both slice and dice this tasty veggie.

Video: How to Cut Fennel

How to Cut Fennel, Step-By-Step

Step 1: Cut off the fennel fronds using a large chef’s knife. (You can use the wispy portions as a garnish if you’d like.)

How to Cut Fennel | Cut off the fronds

Step 2: Cut off the root end of the fennel.

How to Cut Fennel | Cut off root

Step 3: Remove any tough outer layers of the fennel and discard them.

How to Cut Fennel | Remove tough outer layers

Step 4: Slice down the center of the fennel bulb.

How to Cut Fennel | Cut down the cetner

Step 5: To slice the fennel, place the fennel on its cut side and cut thin half-moon slices parallel to the root end using a circular motion.

Step 6: To dice the fennel, cut slices parallel to the root end, leaving room at the end so the slices stay attached. Make the slices wider for diced, and narrower for minced or small diced. Rotate the fennel and cut slices in the other direction, following the curve. When you’ve cut halfway through, flip the fennel down onto the flat cut side and continue slicing.

How to Cut Fennel | Cut thin slices
How to Cut Fennel | Rotate and dice

And there you have it: how to cut fennel in six easy steps! Let me know in the comments below if you try my method for cutting fennel and how it goes for you.

Tip: Use a great chef’s knife!

A good knife can drastically improve your time in the kitchen. I’ve had my chef’s knives for over 10 years, and they still work great. My favorite knife is this 7″ Chef’s Knife. For safe storage, you can use a drawer knife organizer. Make sure to keep your knives sharpened using a local service or home knife sharpener.

Fennel Recipes

As a cookbook author and recipe developer, I love using fennel in recipes. Its licorice flavor notes add intrigue to soups and stews, and it’s crunchy and refreshing raw in salads.

While some people find the flavor very strong, I’ve found that even fennel-averse people (like my Dad, in particular!) love my fennel salad with apple. Here are some of my favorite fennel recipes for you to try:

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to remove the fennel stalks before cutting the bulb?

Yes, you should remove the stalks before cutting the fennel bulb. The stalks are tough and fibrous, making them difficult to eat raw. However, don’t discard them! The stalks can be used to make flavorful vegetable stock, and the feathery fronds can be used as a garnish or added to salads.

Can I eat fennel raw?

Yes, fennel can be enjoyed raw. It has a crisp texture and a slightly sweet, licorice-like flavor. Thinly sliced or shaved fennel is a delicious addition to salads or slaws.

How do I store cut fennel?

Store cut fennel in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-5 days. To prevent browning, you can sprinkle a little lemon juice over the cut fennel before storing.

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How to Cut Fennel

How to Cut Fennel
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Wondering how to cut fennel? Here’s a step-by-step guide and video that shows you exactly how to cut a fennel bulb (how to dice fennel).

  • Author: Sonja
  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 minutes
  • Yield: About 1 cup diced
  • Category: Knife Skills
  • Method: Cutting
  • Cuisine: N/A

Ingredients

  • 1 fennel bulb

Instructions

  1. Cut off the fennel fronds using a large chef’s knife. (You can use the wispy portions as a garnish if you’d like.)
  2. Cut off the root end of the fennel.
  3. Remove any tough outer layers of the fennel and discard them.
  4. Slice down the center of the fennel bulb.
  5. To slice the fennel, place the fennel on the cut side and cut thin half-moon slices parallel to the root end using a circular motion. OR…
  6. To dice the fennel, cut slices parallel to the root end, leaving room at the end so the slices stay attached. (Make the slices wider for diced and narrower for minced.) Then rotate the fennel and cut slices in the other direction, following the curve of the fennel. When you’ve cut halfway through, flip the fennel down onto the flat cut side and continue slicing. When you reach the end that didn’t have the slices, give it a few more chops. See the video for this part!

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