Fennel Cream Cheese Dip

Ingredients

• 2 large fennel bulbs
• 100 ml heavy cream
• Salt
• Pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
• 200 g Cream cheese
• 1 tsp Olive oil
• 1 tsp tomato paste
• 4 black olives

Instructions

1. 1.

   Wash, trim, and cut the fennel bulbs into large pieces. Reserve one half with its fronds for garnish. In a saucepan, combine the fennel and heavy cream; simmer over low heat for 25-30 minutes until tender.

2. 2.

   Stir frequently, adding an extra tablespoon or two of cream if needed. Once soft, blend the mixture until smooth, seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. In a bowl, whisk together the blended fennel, cream cheese, olive oil, and tomato paste until silky.

3. 3.

   Slice the reserved fennel and fronds into thin strips. Spoon the dip into decorative glasses or bowls, topping with black olives, fennel ribbons, and a light dusting of coarsely ground pepper. Serve with fresh white bread if desired.