ARTICHOKE

“What we can all learn from the life of an artichoke: grow a tough exterior but keep a tender heart”.

Globe artichoke (Cynara scolymus) is an annual or perennial flowering plant that belongs to the group of thistles. This healthy vegetable is native to the Mediterranean region and North Africa. The plant can grow up to 1.4-2 m in height. The leaves are lobed, silvery, glaucous green and can reach about 50-82 cm in length. They also have thorns at the edges. The eatable part of the plant is often referred to as the “heart”. The artichoke hearts are represented by the flower buds that haven’t flourished yet. The budding flower head is a cluster of numerous budding little flowers with many bracts. Some florets can be purple in color. When the buds begin to thrive, their structure changes and becomes harsh. The flower head can be cone-shaped or globular. One plant bears about 15-20 artichokes a year.

Parts Used: leaves, flower buds.

Interesting Facts

• At present, the main artichoke manufacturers are such countries as France, Italy and Spain.
• The tea made from artichoke is very popular in Mexico and Vietnam.
• About 100 % of artichoke used in the USA is produced in California.

Major Components

• Vitamins A, B-6, B-9, B-12, C, E, D, K
• Riboflavin, folate and niacin
• Apigenin, luteolin
• Minerals (iron, zinc, calcium, manganese, sodium, potassium, phosphorus)
• Protein
• Fiber

Methods of Use

• Food ingredient (but remember that artichoke mustn’t be consumed raw)
• Tea (usually the leaves are used)
• Liqueur
• Capsules
• Tinctures and extracts

Simple Recipe for Artichoke Salad

What you need:

• 1 can of artichokes hearts
• 1 tsp of seasoned salt
• 1 tsp of garlic powder
• 1 tsp of ground black pepper
• Half a red onion (sliced)
• 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup of red wine vinegar
• 4 cups of salad greens
• 3 tbsp of grated Parmesan cheese

Mix together the onion, artichoke hearts and greens. In a separate bowl combine the vinegar, salt, pepper, oil, garlic powder and whisk the mixture. Pour this dressing over the salad and give it a stir. Your heathy dish is ready!