Method

• 1.
  Preheat the oven to 180°C.
• 2.
  Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the sliced fennel (not the fronds) and fry 5-10 minutes until fennel begins to turn golden. Add the stock, season with salt and pepper and bring to the boil. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
• 3.
  Meanwhile, brush the bread on both sides with remaining olive oil, place on a tray and bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden. Top with the grated parmesan and return to the oven for a further 5 minutes or until melted. Finely chop the reserved fennel fronds and add to the soup, stirring to combine. Divide the soup between four bowls and serve with the parmesan toasts.