Page 4 - ROOT by Brock May June 26

Spice It Up: FENNEL SEED
Fennel seed is fl avor-packed, nutrient-dense, Beyond the kitchen, fennel seed has been used Store fennel seed in a cool, dry place away from
and easy to work with. Even better, every for medicinal purposes for thousands of years in direct sunlight. Fresh fennel bulbs should be
part of the fennel plant is edible and delicious. Asia and Europe. Some research suggests it may wrapped in a paper towel and refrigerated for
Harvested from the fl owers of the fennel help alleviate digestive discomfort and reduce up to a week.

plant, fennel seed is a simple way to elevate inflammation. It has also been studied for its Whether you are brightening a savory dish
everyday meals. potential role in easing menopause and menstrual or exploring wellness uses, fennel seed brings
Fennel seed has a naturally sweet fl avor with a symptoms. One study found fennel seed extract both fl avor and history to the table.
hint of licorice. It works well in a wide range reduced eye pressure, which researchers noted
of dishes and cuisines and is especially popular may have implications for glaucoma. Source:
in French and Italian cooking. Many cooks Fennel seeds and fennel powder can be found https://www.verywellhealth.com/fennel-8656727
use it to season meats and vegetables. Fennel in most grocery stores. For the freshest fl avor, https://www.lacucinaitaliana.com/italian-food/
seed gives Italian sausage its signature zing, consider grinding whole seeds at home. Fennel italian-dishes/types-italian-sausages-north-south
and both whole and ground seeds can add seed is also available in capsules, powders, https://www.eatingwell.com/article/7527554/what-
depth to pastas and salads. and teas. If you are considering supplements, are-fennel-seeds-and-how-do-you-cook-with-them/
speak with your healthcare provider fi rst. https://www.loveandlemons.com/what-is-fennel/

spotlight on superf ds:
BEE POLLEN

Want to add a sweet, fl oral note to a dish? • Sprinkled over a pasta salad or tabbouleh
Skip the lavender and try bee pollen. These • Blended into a smoothie
tiny golden pellets are fl avorful and packed
with nutrients. • A salad dressing ingredient
Bees play an essential role in nature. As they Ground bee pollen is also an interesting topping
move from fl ower to fl ower collecting nectar, for popcorn and cheese.
pollen sticks to their bodies. Back at the hive, For people with a passion for fl avor, use
the pollen mixes with nectar and bee saliva, bee pollen:
forming small pellets that serve as food for • As a finishing touch for risotto and other rice

the colony. This natural process creates the dishes
bee pollen found in specialty markets today.

• On grilled fish

Bee pollen o ers a wide range of nutrients.
Its exact makeup depends on the plants it • In a tagine
comes from and the season it is collected, but If you have allergies to seasonal pollen,
it generally contains vitamins, antioxidants, and bees, or honey, be cautious. Bee pollen can
proteins. Some research suggests bee pollen cause severe allergic reactions including
may help support heart health and reduce anaphylaxis. Talk to your doctor before
inflammation, though more studies are needed. consuming any herbal supplement.

Heat is the enemy of bee pollen. Bee pollen brings the flavor of flowers to your

Temperatures above 139°F can destroy foods every day.
many of its nutrients. If you are focused on
its nutritional benefi ts, choose bee pollen Source:
that has been processed using freeze drying https://www.marthastewart.com/how-to-eat-
or microwave-assisted drying. At home, the bee-pollen-11690585
easiest cold uses include: https://www.healthline.com/health/bee-
pollen-side-e ects#renal-failure
• Stirred into yogurt