GETTING READY
1 Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2 Heat a little water in the lower compartment of a steamer.
3 Wash the fennel well.
4 Cut lengthwise into wide, thick slices.

MAKING
5 Place the fennel in the steamer and steam for 10 minutes or until tender but firm.
6 In a wide, fairly shallow fireproof casserole dish, melt 3 tbsp butter.
7 Add the fennel slices and fry lightly along with a clove of garlic and a sprig of thyme.
8 Season with a little salt and freshly ground pepper.
9 Cook until brown lightly on both sides.
10 Sprinkle with the grated cheese and a thin covering of breadcrumbs.
11 Dot with pieces of butter over the surface.
12 Place in the oven for 5 minutes, until the cheese melts.

SERVING
13 Serve hot.
14 Rosti Potatoes with Shallots Broccoli Puree can be a great side dish along with Fennel Au Gratin.