Raw fennel has a sharp aniseed bite, but roasting mellows it into something sweet and caramelised. The air fryer does it in 18 minutes — a smart, simple side. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: How long does fennel take in an air fryer?
A: Air fry fennel wedges at 190°C (375°F) for 15–18 minutes, until caramelised and tender.
Q: How do you cut fennel?
A: Trim the stalks, halve through the root, and cut into wedges so they hold together.
Times & temperatures
| Cut | Temp | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Wedges | 190°C / 375°F | 15–18 min |
| Thin slices | 190°C / 375°F | 10–12 min |
The recipe
Air Fryer Caramelised Fennel
Ingredients
- 2 fennel bulbs, in wedges
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon, thyme
- Salt & pepper
Method
- Toss the wedges with oil and seasoning.
- Single layer; air fry at 190°C for 15–18 min.
- Turn once for even caramelising.
- Finish with lemon.
80 kcal
2g protein
9g carbs
4g fat
4g fibre
Tips
- Cut through the root so wedges hold together.
- Roast until caramelised to mellow the aniseed.
- Lemon and parmesan finish it nicely.
Frequently asked questions
How long does fennel take in an air fryer?
Wedges take 15–18 minutes at 190°C, until caramelised and tender. Thin slices take 10–12 minutes.
How do you cut fennel for roasting?
Trim the stalks, halve the bulb through the root, and cut into wedges, keeping a little root on each so they hold together.
Does air frying mellow fennel's flavour?
Yes — roasting turns the sharp aniseed bite sweet and mellow, which makes it far more appealing to many people.