Fennel Pollen

What it is:  Fennel Pollen, aromatic pollen collected from the tiny yellow blossoms of wild fennel.

Details:  0.5-ounce tin, $9.95; 1-ounce tin, $15; 4-ounce pouch, $45; 8-ounce pouch, $90

Who makes it:  Pollen Ranch, a family company collecting plant pollens in sunny California since 1999.

Why I love it:  It’s hard to stop gazing at this soft, vivid yellow dust and smelling its intoxicating perfume. Peggy Knickerbocker’s alluring image of fennel pollen as “the spice that angels sprinkle from their wings” rings true for me. Discovering its aroma, beauty, and flavor is a brilliantly memorable experience. Fennel pollen has an ethereal quality and a delicate sprinkle can transform a dish into something sublime. Once you do, it’s hard not to crave its magic in everything you cook. Rebb’s expertise in properly collecting, cleaning, and storing plant pollens is evident; Pollen Ranch fennel pollen is striking for its incredible freshness. Bursting with color and a sweet, herbaceous scent, this heavenly spice is an absolute pleasure.

How I’ll use this in my kitchen:  Fennel pollen’s flavor is a bit mysterious with subtle notes of roasted fennel, and its sweet and savory quality make it amazingly versatile. It can be used to season beef, pork and poultry, a flaky piece of grilled fish, roasted vegetables, soups and sauces, or a slice of soft goat cheese. Try incorporating it into fresh, homemade pasta, buttery cookies, strawberry scones, or even a creamy peach ice cream. You’ll be tempted to sprinkle this enchanting spice on every creation in your kitchen.

Storage Tips:  Store in a cool, dry place at 50°-60°F. Best used fresh.

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