HOW TO COOK AND EAT AN ARTICHOKE aka Vegetable Lobster

Cost on sale April, 2010 about $1.33 each (Michigan)

Preparation:

Chop off the top as shown in the picture. Remove the 1or 2 layers of outer leaves. If the stem is too long, cut it off.

Cook:

Place the whole artichokes in a large pot with a steam basket insert. Add about 2” of water and 1 clove of garlic that has been flattened (not a head of garlic), 1 whole bay leaf, and 1 tsp. of lemon juice. Cover with a lid and steam about 45 minutes. Start with high heat until it boils, then turn down to low for the remaining time.

Dip:

Mix 1 c. chicken broth, 1 Tbsp. Smart Balance margarine, and heat it until the margarine melts. Divide into small dipping dishes.

To eat:

Remove outer leaves, dip, and pull the lower soft part against your lower teeth to remove the edible portion. The edible portion becomes larger and softer as you work into the artichoke. Toward the center you will discover a fuzzy, non-edible portion called the “choke”. Remove it with a teaspoon, without digging too deep. Under the “choke” is the “heart”, the best part! Trim off the remaining stem with a knife. Quarter the choke, dip and eat the quarters. Delicious!

Meatball Stew

This is a great recipe we have used for years.  To control calories, be sure to watch the calorie count of the meatballs you purchase.  We are currently using Casa Di Bertacchi Italian Style meatballs from Sam's (frozen).  They show 5 meatballs = 220 calories.  This is lower than some of the meatballs we used previously.  You can also make your own meatballs, but watch the calories.

Meatball Stew (serves 4)

20 Italian meatballs

15 oz can diced tomatoes

1 medium onion, chopped

10 oz potato, chopped

16 oz frozen peas and carrots (or mixed, or add a few lima beans)

15 oz can green beans

2 beef bullion cubes

1 t chili powder

4 c water (or use carrot water, see January 18.2009*)

Put all ingredients in a large pot excdept the green beans.  Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes.  Add the green beans and simmer 5 more minutes.  Serve.