How to Cook an Artichoke

Learn how to prep, season, and cook the perfect artichoke.

How to Cook an Artichoke

Ingredients:

• 2 to 4 artichokes
• 1 lemon
• 1 T. salt
• water

Tools You’ll Need:

• steaming basket
• large pot
• kitchen scissors
• tongs
• measuring spoons

Let’s Get Cooking!

First, place a large pot on the stove and put enough water inside that it doesn’t touch the bottom of the steaming basket. If the water is touching the basket, remove a little until it falls just below but not touching. Add 1 T. salt and the juice of half of a lemon. Bring to a boil.

1. Slice off the top 2″ of the artichoke.
2. Remove bottom leaves by pulling them off.
3. Cut off stem flush to the bottom of the artichoke. It should sit up well.
4. Using the kitchen scissors, trim off a 1/2″ of the points of each leaf.
5. From the top, pull the leaves apart, opening up the artichoke. We just want to open it up enough for the steam to penetrate the inside and to ensure a thorough cook.

Add the steaming basket to the pot of boiling water. Place the artichokes bottom-side up and cover the pot with a lid. Boil for 35 minutes. Remove lid and test with a knife. If it goes in gently, they are done. Serve immediately.

Tips on How to Serve

1. Serve whole with a side of melted butter or hollandaise sauce. For added flavor you can add a little butter to your garlic, a pinch of cayenne, or any kind of flavored salt you like (if you use unsalted butter).
2. Or, remove all leaves and arrange around a plate with your choice of dipping sauce in the middle or off to the side. Let the creative you be your guide.

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