Artichoke

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Artichokes are the flower buds of a species of thistle. These grey-green-coloured flower buds are made up of many small leaves that are folded around an edible base. On the base, which is also called the heart of the artichoke, grows a fuzzy type of hay. The meaty bracts of the closed flower bud are eaten as a vegetable. An artichoke can dry out quite easily, so we recommend wrapping it in a damp tea towel. You can store an artichoke in the refrigerator for four to seven days.

Basic techniques: Frying, cooking, gratineeing, roasting, deep-frying, puréeing, stuffing, marinating, smoking.

Flavour combinations: Bacon, cheese, aioli, tarragon, basil, tomato, garlic, broad beans, walnut, Hollandaise sauce, balsamic vinegar, couscous, risotto, crème fraîche, lobster, bottarga, king prawn, lamb.