Lunch: Potato and Fennel Purée

Recipe by Steve Corry A flavorful, healthy alternative to plain mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

1/4 c. olive oil
1 tbsp. olive oil
2 fennel bulbs
1 1/4 c. Sambuca, or other anise or licorice liqueur
3 medium Yukon gold potatoes
1 russet potato
1/2 c. whole milk
1 tbsp. unsalted butter

Instructions

In a large, deep skillet, heat 1/4 cup olive oil. Add fennel and 1/4 teaspoon salt, cover, and cook over medium-low heat until tender, about 15 minutes. Add Sambuca, cover, and simmer 3 minutes more, until fennel is very soft and most of the Sambuca has been absorbed. Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, and purée in a blender or food processor. Transfer to a large bowl.
Meanwhile, place both kinds of potatoes in a large saucepan, and add water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook over medium-high heat until tender, about 12 minutes. Drain well and return potatoes to pot. Add milk, butter, and remaining 1 teaspoon salt, and mash with a potato masher.
Using a rubber spatula, fold potatoes into fennel purée. Stir in chopped fronds. Reheat purée by setting bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring constantly, about 3 minutes. Looking for vegetable recipes? Try our best asparagus recipes, eggplant recipes, or zucchini recipes.