Artichokes can be quite intimidating, but trust us, they are worth the effort! These fiber-packed delights are not only delicious but surprisingly easy to cook once you know a few tricks. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing and cutting an artichoke to preventing browning and the best dipping sauces. With just one pot and an artichoke, you’ll become an artichoke pro in no time. Let’s get started!
Artichokes 101 + Health Benefits
Artichokes are unique flower buds that thrive in warm and sunny climates like California, the Mediterranean, and North Africa. They are in season from March through early summer and have a brief comeback in the fall. Aside from their beauty, artichokes offer numerous health benefits. These antioxidant-packed buds are a rich source of inulin, a fiber that supports a healthy gut. They also provide folate, vitamin K, magnesium, vitamin C, phosphorous, and a variety of phenolic compounds. Additionally, ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used artichokes as a digestive aid for liver and gallbladder health.
How to Cook an Artichoke
When it comes to cooking artichokes, steaming is the easiest and most approachable method. Follow these steps to cook a perfect artichoke:
Step 1: Choosing an Artichoke
To start, choose fresh artichokes. Look for tightly closed buds, heavy ones with mostly green color and minimal browning or bruising.
Step 2: Prep It
Using a large serrated knife, cut off and discard the top third of the artichoke, approximately one inch. The tough leaves should be removed, similar to cutting through a loaf of thick, rustic bread.
Step 3: Preventing Browning
Rub the artichoke with lemon to prevent browning.
Step 4: Steam the Artichokes
In a large pot, add a few inches of water and bring it to a boil. Place the artichokes in a steamer basket over the water and steam for 25-35 minutes. Smaller artichokes cook in about 25 minutes, while larger ones require around 35 minutes. Ensure there is enough water to prevent scorching.
Once cooked, transfer the artichokes to a plate and let them cool slightly. You’ll know they are done when the petals slide out easily when pulled.
Artichoke Dipping Sauces
Artichokes are best enjoyed with rich and lemony sauces. After much testing, we have found two favorites:
- Lemon Dill Butter: This light and lemony sauce includes melted butter (vegan or dairy), lemon juice, garlic, dried dill, and salt.
- Lemon Dill Yogurt Dip: This mayo-based dip alternative uses coconut yogurt (dairy yogurt works too!), lemon juice, garlic, dried dill, and salt.
How to Eat an Artichoke
Serve the artichokes on plates with one or both sauces nearby. Here’s how to eat them:
- Peel off one petal at a time.
- Dip the petal into your sauce of choice.
- Use your teeth to scrape the slightly thicker bottom part of the petal where it was attached to the artichoke.
- Discard the rest of the petal and repeat!
Where is the Artichoke Heart?
As you enjoy the artichoke, you will eventually come across petals with pink color and less edible flesh. This indicates that you are nearing the artichoke heart, which is the tender center and incredibly delicious.
You will also notice what looks like a bunch of hairy fibers called the choke. These fibrous strands are inedible. Use a spoon to scoop away the choke and uncover the tender, buttery artichoke heart—perfect for slicing and drizzling with any remaining sauce.
Conclusion
We hope this beginner’s guide to cooking artichokes has been helpful! Artichokes are tender, nutty, fiber-packed, versatile, and surprisingly easy to prepare. They make a beautiful starter or side dish for your favorite meals.
For more helpful how-tos and recipes, check out the Ekilove website. Enjoy your artichoke adventure!
