GETTING READY
1 Set up a steamer ready for use, with the water heating in the lower compartment.
2 Preheat the oven to 350°F.
3 Rinse the fennel well.
4 Dry them and slice lengthwise into wide, fairly thick slices.
5 Put the fennel in the steamer and steam for approximately 10 minutes or until just tender. Or you can also choose to boil the fennel until tender.
6 Meanwhile, lightly grease a Gratin dish and set aside

MAKING
7 In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter.
8 Add the fennel and fry gently on both sides along with the peeled garlic clove and thyme sprig for about 5 minutes.
9 Add a little salt and freshly ground pepper.
10 Gradually pour in the stock mixed with the curry powder.
11 Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
12 Transfer to the prepared gratin dish,.
13 Sprinkle with the cheese and breadcrumbs.
14 Dot a few flakes of butter, and brown in the oven for 10 minutes.

SERVING
15 Serve hot.