I see many great recipes, especially when I'm watching Rachael Ray, that uses fennel - not just the seeds, but the entire bulb. Now try as I may, I HATE the taste of black licorice, so I cannot abide fennel. What could I use in place of it or should I just leave it out?

Thanks in advance

It does not taste like licorice when it is cooked. It just adds a slight sweetness to the dish.

I also am NOT a fan of black licorice. I can't handle raw fennel but, as Leni said, cooked/roasted fennel is much milder. I can't say you still won't notice the anise taste, especially if you're particularly sensitive to it. If it concerns you, I'd leave it out and know the end flavor will just be different. You might try substituting with something like bok choy...just a thought.