07 Feb Super Simple Artichokes

In the Kremer household we LOVE artichokes! However, in working with my nutritional patients at our local clinic, it seems that this is one food that people either LOVE or have never tried because they just don’t know what to do with these intimidating club-like vegetables. Thus, I created this recipe in hopes of showing just how simple it is to prepare the mighty artichoke! When I first started buying artichokes I would simply steam them until their leaves could be easily removed. However, after enjoying a different version from a local restaurant, I realized that these vegetables really are more versatile than I’d previously realized! Thus, I bring you my very simple, yet super yummy artichoke recipe. While this recipe does take a little more time to prepare, it really is quite simple and is one of those things that is fairly difficult to mess up. So, be brave and go get yourself some artichokes, then come on back and lets prepare this awesome vegetable!

Ingredients

• 2 artichokes
• ½-1 tbs coconut oil
• Pinch of salt
• 1 lemon

Steps:

1. Begin by rinsing each artichoke, then cut in half. You can also cut the tip of the stem off as well as the top of the stalk if desired. I always remove about a quarter of an inch from each stem but rarely remove the top of the artichokes. Removing the top can prevent getting poked by the tips of the leaves (which can actually be rather sharp!)
2. Fill the bottom of a large pot with water (about 3 inches deep) then place a steamer basket in the bottom of the pot (water should not be deep enough to come into steamer basket). Place artchokes, cut-side-down in steamer basket and cover the pot with a lid.
3. Bring water to boil then reduce to medium-low heat and steam for about 20-30 minutes (larger artichokes take longer to cook). They are ready when the leaves can easily be pulled off and the “meat” from the leaf can easily be removed with your teeth. If you’re pressed for time you can stop here and simply enjoy your artichokes as is… however continuing on with the next step really does make for a much tastier choke!
4. Melt coconut oil in a frying pan or skillet on medium heat (spread it around to make sure the pan is well-coated). Add artichokes, cut side down and fry for about 5-10 minutes until they begin to turn a wonderful, crispy light brown color.
5. Place the artichoke on your plate, cut-side-up and top with freshly-squeezed lemon and a pinch of salt and enjoy! Serves 2-4