How to Steam and Eat Artichokes

Artichokes. The beautiful yet intimidating vegetable. A vegetable Dana and I both thoroughly enjoy but don’t eat too often. Most of the time it’s just because we forget about them, but also because they are some work to prepare and eat.

So let’s talk about the preparation shall we?

how to steam and eat an artichoke

How to Steam an Artichoke

Step 1: Fill large pot with two inches of water. Add lemon juice to flavor the water if you wish. artichoke

Step 2: Place the steaming basket on top of the water.

artichoke

Step 3: Pull off some of the small bottom leaves. Use scissors to to snip off sharp ends of the leaves (optional). Use a knife to cut off the bottom stem leaving just one inch of stem as well as about 3/4 of an inch off of the top of the artichoke. Sorry this is a long step.artichoke

artichoke

Step 4: Rinse the artichokes and place on top of steaming basket in the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and bring to a boil.

artichoke

 Step 5: Reduce to simmer and let simmer for 30-45 minutes (depending on the size of the artichoke). You can test if it is done by pulling off one of the outer leaves. If it is easy to pull off, it is probably done. Remove from pot and get ready to eat!

artichoke

How to Eat an Artichoke

Step 1: Pull off a leaf…

artichoke

Step 2: Dip the whitish looking end in melted butter, salt or mayo (I prefer straight up salt).

artichoke

Step 3: Use top or bottom teeth to pull the artichoke meat off of the leaf. Dana prefers to use his bottom teeth, I prefer my top. Probably because I have a permanent retainer in the bottom of my mouth (fun fact :smile:). Throw away the petal when done.

artichoke

artichoke

Step 4: Repeat steps 1-3 until you get down to the core. Don’t eat the spiky things.

artichoke

artichoke

artichoke

 

Step 5: Use a knife to cut off the spiky part of the artichoke.

artichoke

And you are left with the heart! The best part of the artichoke. I realize this photo below is far from appetizing but I promise you it is delicious. It is buttery and meaty and tender. It’s worth all of the effort of eating through the artichoke leaves! I cut mine into pieces and dip in butter or salt.

artichoke

So yes, they do require a bit of work, but they are worth it. Besides their delicious flavor, they are also a source of folate, fiber, vitamins C and K, and are an incredible antioxidant to boot!

Don’t be shy! The beautiful artichoke is waiting for you!!!

Continue Reading How to Steam and Eat Artichokes