Mediterranean Fennel Cakes Recipe
Category: Main Dishes
Servings: 4
These Mediterranean fennel cakes combine the unique flavors of fennel, sun-drenched cherry tomatoes, tangy capers, and melty Edamer cheese, topped with crispy breadcrumbs. Baked to perfection in individual aluminum molds, they make for an elegant and hearty dish perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fennel | 250g |
| Cherry Tomatoes (Datterini) | 200g |
| Edamer Cheese | 80g |
| Salted Capers | 15g |
| Black Olives | 8 |
| Breadcrumbs | 20g |
| Butter | q.b. (to taste) |
Nutritional Information (approx.)
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 450mg |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Fennel
Begin by slicing the fennel thinly using a mandolin (this ensures even cooking). This delicate slicing will help retain the fennel’s sweet, licorice-like flavor once baked. -
Prepare the Tomatoes
Wash the cherry tomatoes and slice them thinly. Their juicy sweetness will contrast beautifully with the savory fennel and cheese layers. -
Cut the Cheese
Slice the Edamer cheese into thin strips. This cheese will melt beautifully, creating a gooey, savory layer between the fennel and tomatoes. -
Prepare the Aluminum Molds
Take small aluminum baking molds (approximately 10 cm in diameter and 3 cm high). These individual molds allow for even cooking and provide a beautiful presentation. Melt some butter and grease both the bottom and the sides of the molds with it to prevent sticking. Then, sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs inside the molds to create a crispy crust. -
Layer the Ingredients
Start by placing a layer of fennel slices at the bottom of the mold. Next, layer the cherry tomatoes on top of the fennel. Sprinkle some capers (previously desalted to remove excess salt) for a burst of tangy flavor, and add a few cubes of Edamer cheese and sliced black olives for richness. -
Add Another Layer
Add a second layer of fennel on top of the tomatoes and cheese. This will help to form a nice, compact structure as it bakes. -
Top and Bake
Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top of the fennel layer, and dot with small pieces of butter for extra crispiness. The butter will melt during baking, giving the fennel cakes a rich, golden crust. -
Bake the Fennel Cakes
Place the filled molds on a baking tray and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy, and the fennel is tender. -
Serve
Let the fennel cakes cool slightly before serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature, making them perfect for a family meal or even a festive gathering.
These Mediterranean fennel cakes are a vibrant dish, bursting with flavors from the Mediterranean, that make a perfect side dish or a vegetarian main course. Whether you enjoy them as part of a larger meal or on their own, these cakes will surely become a family favorite.
