Wild Fennel

We went to the Bay Lands today (and on a totally unrelated note--Chase thought a large floating log was an alligator and stared for twenty minutes scared to death but transfixed). Anyhow, one of the plants at the edge of the crocodile infested waters smelled exactly like black licorice. It couldn't be - could it - but it was - wild fennel. I don't know why I am so fascinated - but wild herbs are not something I come across frequently - I feel a bit like a colonist (or someone who would be equally excited about wild fennel). I smelled it over and over and even brought some home - I should have cooked with it, but I just smelled it.

Now that fennel is on my mind, all I can think about is going to Chelsea Market, waiting in line at Amy's, and buying a turkey sandwich on - Semolina with Golden Raisins and Fennel (their signature bread). It is so yummy! And the last time I was there, one friendly baker saw James peeking in the window as they weighed bread dough, and he brought us out a piping hot baguette...how's that for a friendly New Yorker! Anyhow, I love wild fennel and Amy's.