Fresh fennel, which looks a little like celery, has a light licorice flavor and a celerylike texture.
Trimming Fennel
Lay fennel on one flat side on a cutting board and anchor with your hand. With a sharp knife, trim the stalks and feathery leaves to within 1 inch of the bulb.
Slicing Fennel
Slice the fennel bulb into quarters with a sharp knife. Take one of the fennel wedges and cut it crosswise into slices about 1/4 inch thick. Slice the remaining wedges the same way to produce about 4 cups sliced fennel.