Artichokes ( Globe or Baby)
Artichokes are a type of thistle, ranking amongst the most antioxidant-rich of all vegetables. Artichokes contain luteolin, an antioxidant preventing cholesterol formation, in addition to potassium which helps regulate blood pressure.
The edible part of the globe artichoke is actually the flower bud. If left to grow, the flower of the artichoke plant will bloom into a beautiful purple or blue thistle-like flower. However, once the buds begin to open, the artichoke becomes inedible.
Globe artichokes are available all year round, best June to November
Baby artichokes are in season at beginning of spring.
Cooking tips for globe artichokes:
Prepare the artichokes properly before cooking to ensure that they cook evenly and are easy to eat. To do this, trim the stem so that it's flush with the base of the artichoke. Next, use kitchen scissors to trim the tips of the remaining leaves. Finally, rub the cut surfaces of the artichokes with a lemon to prevent them from browning.
Don't overcook the artichokes or it will go from a delicious vegetable into a mushy mess. Keep an eye on them while they're cooking and remove them from the heat as soon as they're tender. A good way to test for doneness is to gently pull on one of the outer leaves; if it comes off easily, the artichoke is done.
Glo
