Braised Fennel With Olives, Capers And Extra Virgin Olive Oil
A Mediterranean-style braised fennel dish with olives, capers and extra virgin olive oil, combining soft, caramelised flavours with a bright, savoury finish.
Purchase Evoo
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Amount
6
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Time
30 Mins
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Course
Main Dishes
A Mediterranean fennel recipe with rich flavour, simple technique, and powerful health benefits
If you’re looking for a fennel recipe that’s both comforting and vibrant, this Mediterranean‑style braised fennel with olives and capers is a perfect choice. It’s a dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of fennel, the savoury punch of briny ingredients, and the richness of extra virgin olive oil — especially premium oils like Morocco Gold, which elevate both flavour and nutritional value.
This recipe is ideal for anyone searching for easy fennel recipes, healthy Mediterranean dishes, or tips on cooking fennel so it becomes tender, caramelised, and deeply aromatic.
Ingredients
Total
- 2–3 fennel bulbs, trimmed and sliced into wedges
- 3 tbsp Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 cup vegetable or chicken stock
- ½ cup green or black olives
- 2 tbsp capers
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: lemon zest, fresh parsley, or chilli flakes
Instructions
Total
- Prep the fennel Slice the bulbs into wedges, keeping the core intact so they hold their shape.
- Sauté for caramelisation Heat Morocco Gold EVOO in a wide pan. Add fennel and onion, cooking until lightly golden. Tip: Don't rush this step - caramelisation is key to unlocking fennel's sweetness.
- Add aromatics Stir in garlic, olives, and capers for a savoury, briny depth.
- Braise gently Pour in stock, season, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the fennel is soft and silky.
- Finish with freshness Add lemon zest or parsley and a final drizzle of Morocco Gold EVOO for brightness.
Warm up your dish with a spoon of Morocco Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil
From The Larder
Why Cook Fennel With Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
Fennel is naturally sweet, slightly anise‑scented, and transforms beautifully when cooked slowly. Pairing it with extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) enhances its flavour and supports gentle caramelisation.
Morocco Gold extra virgin olive oil is particularly well‑suited to fennel dishes because:
- Its early‑harvest, high‑polyphenol profile adds peppery brightness that complements fennel’s sweetness.
- Its heat stability makes it ideal for braising and sautéing.
- Its nutritional benefits — antioxidants, monounsaturated fats — align perfectly with Mediterranean cooking traditions.
Using a premium EVOO isn’t just about taste; it’s about creating a dish that’s both delicious and nourishing.
Top Tips for Cooking Fennel
- Trim but don’t discard the fronds — they make a beautiful herb‑like garnish.
- Use high‑quality extra virgin olive oil to enhance caramelisation and flavour.
- Slice fennel evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
- Braise low and slow for tenderness; roast at high heat for crisp edges.
- Pair fennel with bold flavours like olives, citrus, chilli, or fresh herbs.
Why Morocco Gold Is the Perfect Partner for Fennel
Morocco Gold’s single‑estate, early‑harvest olives produce an EVOO with:
- A clean, grassy flavour that complements fennel’s natural sweetness
- A peppery finish that lifts Mediterranean dishes
- High polyphenol levels that support heart and brain health
- Exceptional purity and low acidity, ideal for both cooking and finishing
Whether you’re braising, roasting, or sautéing fennel, Morocco Gold brings both flavour and wellness benefits to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This braised fennel recipe works beautifully as:
- A vegetarian main
- A side dish for grilled fish or chicken
- A topping for creamy polenta
- A warm salad base with chickpeas or lentils
This refreshed fennel recipe is a perfect blend of Mediterranean comfort and modern healthy cooking. With premium extra virgin olive oil — especially Morocco Gold — you get deeper flavour, better texture, and added nutritional benefits.
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