Ingredients

  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 2 fennel bulbs, stems and leaves trimmed and bulbs cut lengthwise into 1/2-inch-thick slices
  • 1 medium onion, halved and cut into slices
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 3/4 cup vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 can (about 15 ounces) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
  • 3 tablespoon chopped fresh Italian (flat-leaf) parsley

Method

  • Heat half the oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Brown the fennel slices in the oil on both sides, about 2 minutes per side, and transfer to a plate.
  • Add the onion to the skillet and saute over medium heat until tender, about 3 minutes.
  • Add the garlic, rosemary, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper and saute for 30 seconds.
  • Stir in the flour until the onions are coated.
  • Add the wine and heat to boiling.
  • Add the broth and tomatoes and stir until boiling.
  • Coat a 3- to 4-quart slow cooker with the remaining oil.
  • Layer half the fennel slices in the cooker, cover with half the artichoke quarters, and then half the sauce.
  • Repeat the layers.
  • Cover the cooker and cook for 3 to 4 hours on high, or 6 to 8 hours on low, until everything is tender.
  • Scatter parsley over the top and serve.