The Perfect Artichoke

Lucia and I love to eat artichokes together. I usually have to make two at a time, as we gobble them up pretty quickly. Here is our recipe for the perfect artichoke.

Ingredients:

• 1 or 2 large artichokes
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/8 tsp olive oil {or 1/4 tsp, divided, if making two}

1. Using a sharp knife, cut off the top of the artichoke to make flat. On the stem, peel off the smallest bottom leaves. Also with your knife, cut the stem {leaving 1/2 inches or less}. Make sure you cut it straight across, so it can stand upright. If desired, you can trim the thorn tips on each leaf using scissors {although I rarely do}. The thorn tips will soften during the cooking and will no longer prick you. Trimming of the leaves is more ideal for presentation.
2. Rinse artichoke.
   
3. In a large pot, fill with one inch of water. Add lemon juice and kosher salt to water and bring to a boil. Place artichoke face down in the boiling water {it should stand upside down}. Cover and reduce heat to low for 20 minutes. {Do not open lid}.
   
4. Using tongs, turn the artichoke upright {so it is standing on it's stem}. Drizzle 1/8 tsp olive oil over {each} artichoke, drizzling between each leaf.
   
5. Add another 1/2 cup of water to pot {or however much is needed to fill again to 1 inch}. Bring to another boil. Cover with lid and reduce heat to low for another 20 to 25 minutes, or until leaves tear off easily. {Do not lift lid during cook time}. If artichoke is not ready, cover and cook in 5 to 10 minute increments until done.
6. Using tongs, remove from pan to serving bowl or dish. Serve with my favorite simple 'Lemon Butter Artichoke Dip' {see recipe in 'Dips and Spreads'}.
   

Enjoy!

"Artichokes provide a good amount of dietary fiber. One medium artichoke provides more fiber than a whole cup of prunes!"