Roman Style Artichokes

DIRECTIONS

Have ready a large bowl of cold water acidulated with 2 tablespoons of the lemon juice.

Trim 1/4 inch off the top of each artichoke and the same off the stem.

Peel the stems with a vegetable peeler to remove the outer layer.

Carefully remove the first two outer rows of leaves and trim the thorns on the remaining leaves with scissors.

With a sharp knife, cut the artichoke in half horizontally and use a spoon or melon baller to remove the yellow center leaves and scoop out the hairy choke.  As you prepare them, toss them in the bowl of cold water.

Drain the artichokes from the water and place, cut side down, in the base of a large saucepan.  Add the wine, oil, parsley, mint, remaining lemon juice, garlic and 1 1/2cups water.  Sprinkle with salt and pepper and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat to low and cook the artichokes, turning them occasionally, until they are tender,   10 to 12 minutes; it should be easy to just pick off a leaf.

Transfer the artichokes to a serving platter and pour any pan juices over the tops.  Serve two halves per person.

This recipe is from Ciao Italia Family Classics by Mary Ann Esposito.

This recipe was featured on show 2101 – Lamb Roman Style.