Globe Artichokes

The globe artichoke is an edible variety of thistle. Whilst much of its flavour lies in the base of the bud's leaves, the best part is the heart or fond, which lies deep at the bud's centre and has a deliciously nutty taste.

They may be prepared by simply boiling or steaming and serving with melted butter, vinaigrette or hollandaise. Each of the leaves may then be pulled off one at a time, dipped into the accompanying sauce, and then drawn through the teeth. The soft, fleshy base of each leaf is pulled off and eaten, leaving the leathery tips to be discarded. Once all the leaves have been eaten, the inedible, prickly thistle may be removed to reveal the delicious artichoke heart.

Artichoke hearts may also be separated, parboiled and then stuffed with mushrooms, foie gras or béchamel before baking in the oven. They may also be simmered with oil, tomatoes and garlic or dipped in batter and deep fried.

Cooked artichoke hearts are available canned in water or packed in oil in jars, to be served as part of an antipasti, used in salads or served as a vegetable side dish. The oil is excellent for salad dressings.