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Braised Fennel with Lemon

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This braised fennel with lemon is a bright and aromatic vegan side dish that celebrates the natural sweetness of the bulb. By searing the fennel in a frying pan before slow-cooking it in the oven, you develop a deep, caramelised flavour that balances perfectly with the punchy citrus dressing. The addition of fresh parsley and minced garlic creates a fragrant sauce that soaks into the tender layers of the vegetable.

Ideal as a sophisticated accompaniment to roasted roots or a protein-rich main, this dish is naturally plant-based and gluten-free. It fits beautifully into a Mediterranean-style menu or as a lighter alternative to traditional side dishes. Serve it warm from the oven to enjoy the contrast between the silky softened fennel and the zesty, shallot-flecked dressing.

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Ingredients for Braised Fennel with Lemon

  • 110ml extra-virgin olive oil, divided

  • 4 fresh fennel bulbs, each cut lengthwise into 6 wedges

  • 80ml chopped shallots

  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

  • 2 teaspoons grated lemon peel

  • 1 garlic clove, minced

How to make Braised Fennel with Lemon

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in large skillet over high heat. Add half of fennel; sauté until deep golden brown on all sides, about 8 minutes. Transfer to 11x7x2-inch glass baking dish. Repeat with 2 more tablespoons oil and remaining fennel.

Preheat oven to 204°C. Mix shallots and next 4 ingredients in medium bowl. Whisk in 45ml oil; drizzle mixture over fennel. Cover dish with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake until fennel is tender and shallots begin to brown, about 20 minutes longer.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 17 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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