Artichokes are an amazing thing. They are soooo weird looking though... Every time I see one, I have to wonder who figured out it was edible in the first place!! They are spiny, tough, and actually a lot of work! In spite of all that, they are still delicious and I buy a ton of them when they are in season.
They're actually pretty easy to prepare.
Take your whole artichokes and give them a nice 15 minute soak in some cold water. Then, with a sharp knife (possibly even a serrated one) cut the top 2 inches off, as well as the last 1/2 inch of the stem.
Place the artichoke upside down on the cutting board, stem up, and cut it in half all the way.
In a large pot place a steam basket or a pie cooling rack. Add water to just below the rack.
Place the artichokes, cut side down, onto the basket or rack. Remember, we don't want the water to touch them.
Cover and turn heat to medium. Allow the 'chokes to steam for about 25 minutes. Youcan check them periodically by poking a fork into the meaty heart. If there is little resistance, they are ready to eat!!
I usually eat mine with chipotle aioli or clarified butter. Another good dipping sauce is 1/2 mayo and 1/2 dijon.
Enjoy!!
I have always been rather intimidated by these suckers. Perhaps I'll work up the courage to buy and cook one. Perhaps.
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