Ingredients
- 4 artichokes
- 1 red onion
- 1 celery stalk
- 1/2 cup pitted green olives
- 2 tablespoons capers
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Artichokes
Start by preparing the artichokes. Remove the tough outer leaves until you reach the tender inner ones. Cut off the top of the artichoke and trim the stem. Cut the artichoke in half and remove the furry choke. Slice the artichoke halves into thin strips and place them in a bowl of water with lemon juice to prevent browning while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Chop the Onion and Celery
Now, it’s time to chop the onion and celery. Finely dice the red onion and celery stalk and set them aside.
Step 3: Sautee the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery and sautee until they become translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Artichokes, Olives, and Capers
Drain the artichokes from the lemon water and add them to the skillet. Mix in the pitted green olives and capers. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Incorporate the Tomato Paste
Add the tomato paste to the skillet and stir until all the ingredients are well combined. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 6: Season and Simmer
Pour in the white wine vinegar and sprinkle with sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the caponata simmer for approximately 20 minutes, or until the artichokes are tender.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Your delicious Sicilian artichoke caponata is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it either warm or at room temperature as a side dish, spread it on a slice of toasted bread, or add it to your antipasto platter. The possibilities are endless!
There you have it – a simple yet mouthwatering recipe for artichoke caponata. Give it a try and bring the flavors of Sicily to your kitchen. Buon appetito!