Braised Artichoke Snack

Braised Artichoke Snack Recipe from Jordan with Lemon and Chardonnay

Region / culture: Jordan | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Braised Artichoke Snack is a delightful and sophisticated dish that showcases the artichoke's natural flavors enhanced by a blend of aromatic herbs and vegetables. This recipe transforms the humble artichoke into a gourmet snack or appetizer, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a healthy and delicious treat. The combination of lemon, olive oil, and a carefully selected mix of herbs infuses the artichokes with a depth of flavor that is both refreshing and comforting.

History

The art of braising artichokes has its roots in Mediterranean cuisine, where artichokes have been a staple ingredient for centuries. This particular recipe, with its use of Jordan Extra Virgin olive oil and Jordan chardonnay, pays homage to the culinary traditions of the Mediterranean region while incorporating a modern twist. The method of braising, combined with the addition of aromatic herbs and vegetables, is a testament to the time-honored techniques passed down through generations of cooks who have celebrated the artichoke's versatility and flavor.

Ingredients

1 lemon, cut in half
6 large artichokes
4 tbsp Jordan Extra Virgin olive oil
1 small onion, diced
1 carrot, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
0.5 head garlic, unpeeled, roots cut off
0.5 tbsp whole black peppercorns
1 bay leaf
0.25 bunch thyme
0.25 bunch marjoram
0.25 bunch parsley
1 tbsp tomato paste
0.25 cup flour
0.5 cup Jordan chardonnay
1-2 cup water
salt

How to prepare

Squeeze the juice of a lemon into a bowl filled with cold water. Remove all the outer leaves from each artichoke and cut off the stalk. Cut off the pale green inner leaves about 1 inch above the base and trim around the base with a sharp knife. Immediately place each trimmed artichoke into the bowl of acidulated water (water and lemon juice).
Heat olive oil in a large, heavy pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery and sauté until they start to brown, approximately 5 minutes. Add garlic, peppercorns, bay leaf, thyme, marjoram, and parsley. Reduce the heat and add tomato paste. Cook slowly to caramelize for about 15 minutes.
Pat the artichokes dry with paper towels and add them to the pot with the vegetables. Sprinkle the contents of the pot with flour, stir to coat, and continue cooking for 5 minutes. Increase the heat to high and deglaze with the wine and water. (The resulting sauce should have a soupy texture.) Mix well and cover with a plate or a small stainless steel pot lid that fits inside the large pot to keep the artichokes submerged. Once the liquid starts to boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir every few minutes to prevent the sauce from sticking to the pot under the artichokes. Cook until a knife can just pierce the bottom of an artichoke, approximately 30 minutes. Place the entire pot in an ice water bath to halt the cooking process.
Once the mixture has cooled, use a small spoon to remove the fuzzy chokes from each artichoke bottom, being careful not to break the artichoke apart. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt. Strain the braising liquid over the artichokes and refrigerate.

Variations

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sautéing vegetables for a spicy kick.
Incorporate capers or olives into the braising liquid for a briny depth of flavor.
Substitute white wine with vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Braised Artichoke Snack turns out perfectly, consider the following tips and tricks:

- Use fresh, high-quality artichokes for the best flavor and texture.

- Keep trimmed artichokes in acidulated water (water with lemon juice) to prevent them from browning.

- Sauté the vegetables until they start to brown to build a deep flavor base for the dish.

- Be patient when caramelizing the tomato paste; this step adds a rich, umami flavor to the braising liquid.

- Ensure the artichokes are fully submerged during the braising process to cook them evenly.

- Adjust the seasoning of the sauce after cooking, as the flavors will concentrate during the braising process.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Braised Artichoke Snack as an appetizer or a light snack. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful braising liquid. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside grilled fish or chicken and a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Braising is the key cooking technique used in this recipe, which involves cooking the artichokes slowly in a flavorful liquid on low heat. This method allows the artichokes to become tender and absorb the rich flavors of the braising liquid.

Ingredient Substitutions

If Jordan Extra Virgin olive oil is not available, any high-quality extra virgin olive oil can be used.

- Replace Jordan chardonnay with another dry white wine or vegetable broth.

- Fresh herbs can be substituted with a smaller amount of dried herbs if fresh ones are not available.

Make Ahead Tips

The Braised Artichoke Snack can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious after a day or two.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the braised artichokes in a shallow bowl with some of the braising liquid. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this dish with a crisp, dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the flavors of the artichokes and herbs. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon pairs nicely.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm the artichokes in a saucepan over low heat until heated through. Avoid boiling to preserve the texture of the artichokes.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Braised Artichoke Snack is relatively low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight. The exact calorie count can vary depending on the size of the artichokes and the amount of olive oil used, but it is generally considered a light and healthy dish.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Braised Artichoke Snack is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a suitable option for those monitoring their carb intake. The primary source of carbohydrates in this dish comes from the vegetables, particularly the artichokes and carrots. Artichokes are a good source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come mainly from the Jordan Extra Virgin olive oil used for sautéing the vegetables. Olive oil is known for its heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats can help reduce bad cholesterol levels in your blood and lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Proteins

Braised Artichoke Snack is not a significant source of protein, as it primarily consists of vegetables and herbs. However, it can be paired with a protein-rich side dish or incorporated into a meal that includes lean meats, fish, or legumes to create a balanced dietary intake.

Vitamins and minerals

Artichokes are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients play vital roles in bone health, blood pressure regulation, and immune function. The other vegetables and herbs in this recipe also contribute additional vitamins and minerals, making it a nutrient-dense snack option.

Alergens

This recipe is free from common allergens such as nuts, dairy, soy, and gluten (assuming gluten-free flour is used for dusting). However, those with specific food sensitivities should always review the ingredients list carefully and make adjustments as necessary.

Summary

Braised Artichoke Snack is a nutritious and flavorful dish that offers a variety of health benefits. It is low in calories and carbohydrates, contains healthy fats from olive oil, and is rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. This makes it an excellent addition to a balanced diet.

Summary

Braised Artichoke Snack is a versatile and flavorful dish that celebrates the artichoke's natural beauty and taste. With its rich history, nutritional benefits, and delicious flavor, it's a perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and gourmet snack. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to impress.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something special. It was a hot summer day and I had just finished tending to my garden when my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, came over with a basket of fresh artichokes. She told me that she had just picked them from her own garden and wanted to share them with me. I had never cooked with artichokes before, but Mrs. Jenkins assured me that they were delicious and that she had a special recipe to share with me.

Mrs. Jenkins invited me into her kitchen where she showed me how to prepare the artichokes for cooking. She explained that the key to making them tender and flavorful was to braise them in a mixture of chicken broth, lemon juice, and garlic. As she demonstrated the process, I watched in awe as she transformed the tough, spiky artichokes into a mouthwatering snack that looked almost too good to eat.

After the artichokes had finished cooking, Mrs. Jenkins plated them up and we sat down to enjoy our snack together. As I took my first bite, I was amazed by the rich, savory flavor of the artichokes. The tender, buttery texture melted in my mouth, leaving me craving more. Mrs. Jenkins smiled at my reaction and told me that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down to her many years ago.

I knew that I had to learn how to make this delicious dish for myself, so I asked Mrs. Jenkins if she would be willing to teach me the recipe. She agreed without hesitation and we spent the rest of the afternoon in her kitchen, cooking and chatting like old friends. By the time I left her house that evening, I had a handwritten copy of the braised artichoke snack recipe in my hands, along with a newfound appreciation for the power of good food and good company.

Over the years, I have made the braised artichoke snack many times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my own tastes. Sometimes I add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra kick. Other times, I experiment with different herbs and spices to create new flavor combinations. No matter how I choose to prepare it, the artichoke snack always reminds me of that sunny afternoon in Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen, where I first discovered the magic of cooking with fresh, seasonal ingredients and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with someone I care about.

As I sit here now, surrounded by my collection of cherished recipes and memories, I can't help but feel grateful for all the wonderful people who have come into my life and shared their love of food with me. Each recipe tells a story, not just of flavors and ingredients, but of friendship, tradition, and the simple pleasures of everyday life. And as long as I have a kitchen to cook in and loved ones to share my creations with, I know that I will continue to learn, grow, and appreciate the beauty of good food for many years to come.