What You’ll Need:
- Fresh artichokes (choose firm and plump ones)
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Lemon juice (approx. 2 lemons)
- Garlic cloves (approx. 4-6 cloves)
- Herbs and spices (such as bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and black peppercorns)
- Sea salt (to taste)
Step 1: Preparing the Artichokes
Clean the artichokes by removing the tough outer leaves and trimming the stem. Cut off the top of the artichoke and rub it with lemon juice to prevent it from browning. As you clean each artichoke, place them in a bowl of water with lemon juice to keep them fresh.
Step 2: Cooking the Artichokes
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice to the water. Place the artichokes in the boiling water and cook them for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender. Test their readiness by piercing the base of an artichoke with a knife. If it enters easily, they are done. Drain the artichokes and let them cool.
Step 3: Preparing the Oil Mixture
In a non-reactive bowl, mix the extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic cloves, and a pinch of sea salt together. Add your preferred herbs and spices, such as bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and black peppercorns. Stir the mixture well to combine all the flavors.
Step 4: Preserving the Artichokes
Once the artichokes have cooled, cut them in half lengthwise and remove the fuzzy choke from the center. Place the artichoke halves in a clean, sterilized jar and pour the oil mixture over them until they are completely covered. Seal the jar tightly and store it in a cool, dark place for at least two days to allow the flavors to develop. You can refrigerate the preserved artichokes for up to one month.
Step 5: Serving the Preserved Artichokes
Enjoy your preserved artichokes as a delicious appetizer or a flavorful addition to salads, pasta dishes, or sandwiches. When using them, make sure to drain the excess oil and pat dry before adding them to your recipe.
Now that you know how to make delicious artichokes preserved in oil, it’s time to get started and savor this delightful culinary experience. Be sure to share your creations with family and friends, and experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavors. Happy cooking!