There are certain questions I get asked when I don’t need to think before I respond. When my grandma calls and says, “I made some artichokes. Would you like to come get them?” I don’t think I have ever said no to that question before. I have eaten artichokes at restaurants, but it is never the same. They grill them and pair it with a dipping sauce. When artichokes are made the Italian way, they are steamed and the fleshy base of the leaves simply melt in your mouth like butter. My favorite part is the chunk of Parmesan cheese my grandma stuffs in the center. The saltiness of the cheese which has been slightly melted is amazing. Once we have eaten all the leaves and removed the choke, comes my second favorite part…the heart. It is so much better than I could ever describe. I am glad my kids love the artichokes too, but I’m sad I have to share.

Artichokes
Printer Friendly Version

Cut stems off artichokes and pare the outside covering off. Cut the top of the artichokes flat and cut the ends off all leaves with scissors. Put the stem along with a piece of Parmesan or Romano cheese in the middle. Sprinkle olive oil inside the leaves. Sprinkle with salt, oregano and Parmesan cheese. Put in a pot. Pour olive oil and water over the artichokes to half way up the artichokes. Bring to a boil and simmer for 3-4 hours.