6+ Amazing Thanksgiving Recipes Featuring Fennel You’ll Want to Make This Year!
Thanksgiving is a time for warmth, family, and of course, delicious food. This year, why not shake things up a bit with the unique flavor of fennel? Its subtle anise notes can elevate traditional dishes into something truly special that everyone will be talking about long after the holiday is over.
Imagine a stuffing that marries the sweet crunch of apples with the aromatic essence of fennel. This dish is baked to golden perfection, offering a delightful texture that complements your turkey beautifully. The combination of savory and sweet flavors makes this stuffing one of the standout dishes on the Thanksgiving table.
4 cups of bread cubes (preferably sourdough)
1 large fennel bulb, diced
2 apples, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp dried sage
Salt and pepper to taste
This stuffing is a crowd-pleaser because it brings a fresh twist to a classic dish. The fennel adds a unique flavor profile that complements the sweetness of the apples, creating a perfect balance. Plus, it’s easy to make ahead of time, so you can focus on the turkey and other dishes on the big day!
Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of vegetables, and when you add fennel to the mix, you get a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The caramelized edges of the carrots paired with the tender fennel create an irresistible side that looks beautiful on the table. This colorful medley not only tastes amazing but also adds a vibrant touch to your Thanksgiving feast.
2 large fennel bulbs, sliced
4 large carrots, sliced
3 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp thyme (fresh or dried)
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon (optional)
This recipe is special because it highlights the natural flavors of the vegetables while keeping things simple. Roasting them brings out a depth of flavor that you just can’t achieve with boiling or steaming. And if you sprinkle a bit of lemon zest before serving, it adds a refreshing brightness that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Mashed potatoes are a must-have at any Thanksgiving table, but have you ever tried them with a hint of fennel? This creamy, dreamy dish combines the comfort of traditional mashed potatoes with the sophisticated flavor of fennel. The result is a side that feels familiar yet exciting, and it’s sure to impress your guests.
2 lbs of potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 large fennel bulb, chopped
1/2 cup cream or milk
4 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives for garnish (optional)
The addition of fennel in these mashed potatoes is what makes them unforgettable. The creamy texture combined with the gentle anise flavor adds a layer of complexity that will have your family raving. Plus, they pair beautifully with gravy and turkey, making them a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
