Artichokes

Preparing artichokes is not as scary as it seems.

When selecting, make sure that they are not beginning to open; that they feel solid and heavy. Although artichokes can be stored in the frig for up a few days it is best to buy them on the day you are going to use them.

So - to prepare them

1 Cut away about a quarter of the artichoke from the top and remove the sharp outer top leaves with a sharp knife.

2 Cut the base so that it can stand up straight.

3 Place it in bowl with about an inch and a half of water with the juice of half a lemon while you preparing the rest of the meal.

4 To cook put them into a pan with a little water and steam them for about 30 to 40 minutes. You'll know when they are done when bottoms of the artichoke feel tender when tested with a fork.

 

Artichokes were introduced into the Mediterranean by the arabs in about the 15th century.

They are popular in Jewish cooking and also in contemporary French, Italian and Spanish cuisine.

The artichoke is a member of the thistle family (I didn't know that as a child in Scotland - doesn't look like a thistle).

Artichokes are obtainable in jars and tins and the product is quite acceptable - as tinned products go.