In a pot boil water and quickly blanch the fennel for 3 minutes. Remove the fennel from the water and drain on paper towels. In a small pot, combine the tomato paste, 1 tablespoon olive oil, fennel seed, and the water, and whisk to incorporate. Bring to a boil and simmer over medium heat for 3 minutes. In bowl mix together the flour and the Creole spice. In a large saute pan heat remaining 6 tablespoons of oil. Dredge the fennel in the flour, shaking off the excess and saute until the edges turn golden, about 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and then turn. Continue to cook for 3- 4 minutes. Pour the simmering sauce over the fennel and cook for 1 minute. Remove from the heat and serve immediately. Yield: 4 servings Recipe By :ESSENCE OF EMERIL SHOW#EE2201 Posted to MC-Recipe Digest V1 #270 Date: Wed, 30 Oct 1996 11:05:49 -0500 From: Meg Antczak