What You’ll Need
- 4 fresh artichokes
- 1 lemon
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 4 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Artichokes
Start by rinsing the artichokes under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, using a sharp knife, chop off the top inch of each artichoke and trim the stem. Be careful not to remove too much of the stem, as it adds to the overall flavor. Finally, use kitchen scissors to clip the sharp tips off the remaining leaves.
Step 2: Lemon Water Bath
Squeeze the juice of one lemon into a large bowl of water. Drop the artichokes into the lemon water immediately after trimming to prevent them from turning brown. Let them soak for about 5 minutes, which will also enhance their flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Steaming Pot
While the artichokes are soaking, fill a steaming pot with water, enough to reach just below the bottom of the steamer insert. Add the garlic cloves to the water for extra flavor. Place the steamer insert into the pot.
Step 4: Steam the Artichokes
Using tongs, carefully transfer the artichokes from the lemon water to the steamer insert. Make sure to shake off any excess water before placing them in the pot. Drizzle each artichoke with a tablespoon of olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Cover the steamer pot and turn on the heat to medium-high. Allow the artichokes to steam for approximately 30-40 minutes or until the outer leaves easily detach with a gentle tug. Check the water level occasionally and add more if needed.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the artichokes are tender, using tongs, carefully transfer them to a serving plate. You can serve them hot or at room temperature, depending on your preference. Squeeze some lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor.
To eat the artichokes, pull off one leaf at a time and scrape the tender flesh at the base of each leaf with your teeth. Discard the remaining tough leaves. Once you’ve reached the artichoke heart, remove any remaining fuzzy choke and savor the heart along with the stem.
Steamed artichokes are not only delicious on their own but also make a great accompaniment to other dishes. They are perfect for dipping in melted butter, garlic aioli, or even a tangy vinaigrette.
Now that you know how to make steamed artichokes, it’s time to experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to find your favorite combination. Enjoy your tasty and nutritious artichoke adventure!