How to Prepare Artichokes
for Cooking
Artichokes are easy to cook, with just a little preparation.
Rinse the artichokes under cold, running water.
Trim the artichoke stem approximately 1 inch.
(The stem is an extension of the heart)
Trim the top of the artichoke approximately 1 inch.
With scissors, trim tip of petals to remove any remaining thorns.
How to Steam Artichokes
Steaming artichokes is the ideal cooking method for maintaining their
high-nutrient content.
· Stove top
Using a deep pot, arrange artichokes either stem up or down --preferably
in a steamer basket--keeping the artichokes above the steaming water. If a
steaming basket is not available, place artichokes directly in water keeping
them only partially submerged.
Cover the pot and steam over rapid-boiling water (making sure to maintain
the water level) until artichokes are tender. (Optional: use a broth instead of
water for added flavor.) Depending on size and quantity, total cooking time
can range from 30-50 minutes. After the artichokes are tender, use tongs to
carefully lift them out of the pot. Now your artichokes are ready to grill.
· Microwave
Microwave cooking is the easiest and quickest way to cook an artichoke.
Place artichokes either stem up or down in a deep, microwave safe bowl.
Add 3 inches of water or flavored broth. Cover bowl with a microwavable
plate or plastic wrap.
Cook medium-sized artichoke on high for 7-10 minutes or until tender.
Cook large-sized artichoke on high for 12-15 minutes or until tender.
Microwave oven cooking times may vary.
Now your artichokes are ready to grill.
Testing Your Artichokes for Doneness:
However you decide to cook an artichoke, it is important to know when it
is done. The best way is to use a toothpick or fork to poke the base of the
artichoke to check if it is tender all the way through to the heart. If there is no
resistance, it's done and ready to eat or use in a recipe.
Removing the Fuzz
There are several ways to remove the center artichoke "fuzz" once it is cooked.
The easiest way is to remove and enjoy each petal of the artichoke until you
make your way down to the fuzzy center. Then use a spoon to scrape out
the fuzz.
Cut the cooked artichoke in half lengthwise from top to bottom of stem.
This will expose the fuzzy center on both sides of the choke. Using a spoon,
scoop out the fuzz from both artichoke halves.
Spread open the center of the artichoke. Pull up and remove the center
cluster of small, thin artichoke petals to expose the center fuzz. Use a spoon
to gently scoop out the center fuzz.
Visit www.oceanmist.com for more Ocean Mist vegetable recipes and cooking videos.
Trim stem to approx 1 inch.
Trim about 1 inch off the
top.
Arrange artichokes, either
stem up or stem down.
Use a spoon to scrape out
the fuzz.
1