It is the fennel in this dish that gives a pleasant aroma and delicious aniseed flavor.
8 medium potatoes, washed
1 large bulb of fennel, sliced
6 large tomatoes, sliced
1 small onion, cut into thin rings
75 g/3 oz Cheddar or Gruyere cheese, grated
100 ml/4 fl oz olive or sunflower oil
Methods:
Pre-heat the oven to 200°C/400°F/ gas 6 and bake the potatoes in their jackets for about 1 hour, until tender. Cool and slice, removing the skins if desired. Blanch the fennel in boiling water for 3 minutes, drain.
Place a layer of potatoes in the base of an ovenproof dish followed by a layer of fennel, tomato and onion, sprinkle with a little cheese. Repeat the layering process, ending with a tomato layer. Pour the oil over the top of the dish and return to the oven for about 20 minutes, until the top is browned.