Roman Artichokes, or Carciofi alla Romana, are a traditional Italian dish that showcases the delicate flavor of artichokes, enhanced by fresh herbs, garlic, and lemon. This dish is simple yet elegant, perfect as an appetizer or a side dish.
📋 Ingredients:
🍋 4 large artichokes (preferably Romanesco artichokes)
🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
🌿 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
🌿 2 tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped
🧂 1 tsp salt
🌶️ 1/2 tsp black pepper
🍋 Juice of 1 lemon
🛢️ 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
🌿 1/2 cup white wine (optional, for added flavor)
🌿 1/2 cup water
🍋 Lemon wedges for serving
📝 Directions:
- Prepare the Artichokes:
- Trim the Artichokes: 🍋 Begin by trimming the artichokes. Remove the tough outer leaves until you reach the tender, pale green leaves. Trim the top third of the artichoke and cut off the stem, leaving about 1 inch attached. Peel the outer layer of the stem to reveal the tender core. Rub the artichokes with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Clean the Chokes: 🍋 Using a spoon or a small knife, carefully remove the fuzzy choke from the center of each artichoke.
- Prepare the Herb Mixture:
- Mix the Herbs: 🌿 In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, parsley, mint, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Stuff the Artichokes:
- Stuff with Herbs: 🍋 Gently open the artichoke leaves and stuff the herb mixture between the leaves and into the center.
- Cook the Artichokes:
- Sauté: 🛢️ Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium heat. Place the artichokes stem-side up in the pot.
- Add Liquid: 🍋 Pour the white wine (if using) and water into the pot, then cover with a lid. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the artichokes simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Add more water if necessary to keep the artichokes from drying out.
- Serve:
- Plate and Garnish: 🍽️ Transfer the cooked artichokes to a serving platter. Drizzle with a bit of the cooking liquid and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
🍽 Serve:
Enjoy your tender and flavorful Roman Artichokes, a perfect dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine!
⏱ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
⏱ Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
⏱ Total Time: 1 hour
🍽 Servings: 4 servings
🔥 Calories: 180 kcal per serving
💡 Notes:
- For a more intense flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the herb mixture.
- These artichokes can be served warm or at room temperature, making them versatile for any meal.
Enjoy your delicious Roman Artichokes (Carciofi alla Romana)! 🍋✨