Fennel
A fragrant vegetable with a mild licorice flavor, the edible bulb and stalks can be used like celery and seeds are used for seasoning (fennel seeds are available, dried, in the spice section of your favorite grocery store). Fennel often grows wild in fields (the licorice aroma in the air will tell you you're near wild fennel). When buying fresh fennel look for firm, undamaged bulbs.

Fennel Seeds also have an licorice taste and can often be used interchangeably with fennel.

To prepare fresh fennel for cooking, cut off the tops green stalks (save the leaves to use for seasonaing at a later time) peel away the tough outer leaves until the almost white heart is exposed. Cut the bulb in half and remove the core. Slice the halves according to your needs, either lengthwise or widthwise. The slices can be as thin or thick as you like, but this entire bulb area can be used.