Artichokes are the immature flower buds of thistle plant. They are grown for their edible heart and fleshy petals. Easy steamed Artichokes with their tender leaves and buttery heart makes it a perfect appetizer or even a light meal when artichokes paired with dipping sauce.
Artichoke plant is native to mediterranean region. Artichoke hearts, artichoke flowers are treated as nutrient packed vegetable.
In this post, I will guide you through how to prepare steamed artichokes easily.
Going forward you will get to know
- why to choose steamed artichokes?
- Ingredients needed.
- Step by step instructions on how to steam an artichoke.
- Tips and variations of artichoke recipes.
- Artichoke Nutrition.
1.Why to choose steamed Artichokes?
- Artichokes are chosen as they are loaded with fiber, antioxidants and vitamins like K and C.
- They are of low calorie in nature and a satisfying meal.
- They are easy to prepare and steaming them preserves the nutrients and enhances natural flavor.
- They are perfect for dips. Pairing Artichokes with melted butter , garlic, lemon vinaigrette gives a restaurant style experience.
2.Ingredients needed.
- Two large fresh artichokes.
- Half lemon
- Two to three garlic cloves for flavoring the water
- One bay leaf
- Water for steaming
- Salt as per taste
3.Step by step instructions on how to steam an artichoke.
3.1. The first step is to prepare the Artichokes.
- Clean the artichokes with cold water and trim the top about half inch.
- Cut the sharp tips of the leaves with scissor.
- Apply lemon on the cut edges in order to prevent browning.
3.2. Now its time to set up the steamer.
- Take a large pot and fill it with water about two to three inches.
- Now add lemon juice, cloves of garlic and the bay leaf.
- Take the steaming basket and place inside the pot.
3.3. steaming the artichokes.
- Now place the prepared artichokes in the basket with stem side down.
- Cover the pot with a lid and boil the water
- Boil it for 30 to 40 minutes or until the leave of artichokes pull off easily.
3.4. Now remove the artichokes from the pot and let it cool.
3.5. Serving easy steamed artichokes warm with butter and a lemon will give a great taste.
4.Tips and variations of artichoke recipes
4.1 while steaming the artichokes adding of herbs like rosemary to the boiling water will give an extra flavor.
4.2. Easy steamed artichokes along with grilled chicken or fish makes it as an inspired dinner.
4.3. For healthy eating to kids, pair the artichoke with yogurt based dip .
5.Artichoke Nutrition (Artichoke benefits).
As per the experts, one medium steamed artichoke contains near about 60 calories, 13g of carbohydrates, 7g of fiber, 4g of protein and they are rich in vitamin C and vitamin K.
So do you want to taste this nutrient packed vegetable? Then what are you waiting for? Lets give a try.
If you have any new way in preparing this artichoke, please write us in comment box below.
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