What is it?

With hints of licorice, honey, and citrus, fennel pollen offers a more interesting flavor than fennel seed, which is why we recommend using it in theHerb-Roasted Rack of Pork. A classic flavoring for porchetta, it’s also lovely on fish or whisked into vinaigrettes.

In Tuscany (where it’s called the “spice of the angels”), fennel pollen is often paired with pork, either before or after cooking. Tiny and golden, it’s wonderful mixed with salt and pepper and used as a seasoning before cooking. Its anise flavor also goes wonderfully with poultry and fish. Try adding fennel pollen to your favorite spice mix or sprinkle a bit onto a finished dish—just a pinch gives a big boost of flavor.

Introduced to American cooks in the 1990s by Italian immigrants, fennel pollen, as the name suggests, is harvested from the flowering fennel plant. Delicious with pork and Though not cheap—1 oz. will set you back at least $15—a little goes a long way.

Don’t have it?

Crushed fennel seeds can stand in in a pinch, but it doesn’t exactly mimic the fragrance of fennel pollen.

How to choose:

Look for fennel pollen in specialty spice shops or gourmet stores.

How to store:

Stored in a cool, dry place, it should last for up to two years.

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Recipes

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  Recipe

  Shaved Fennel Salad with Oranges, Black Olives, and Pistachios

  With its sweet and salty flavors, this colorful salad makes a superb first course and would also work well as a side to a rich braise. A short soak in…

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  Recipe

  Sear-Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Garlic and Fennel

  Fennel is a classic flavoring for pork because it brings out the sweetness of the meat. Although this recipe is straightforward, you can make it even easier by skipping the…

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  Recipe

  Herb-Roasted Rack of Pork with Morel Cream Sauce

  这从aromati烤多的味道c paste of garlic, herbs, and fennel, so be sure to rub the meat with the paste a day ahead to…

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  Recipe

  Turkey Roulades with Fontina and Sage

  This impressive main course has a few steps to it, but you can assemble the roulades ahead; they cook quickly and are a dream to carve. Plus, they pack an…

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  Recipe

  Sear-Roasted Salmon with Honey-Glazed Fennel

  The richness of sear-roasted salmon is contrasted by the bright, sweet-tart salad of fennel and apple that tops it. This recipe features a few unusual spices, namely tart sumac and…