Fact File: Artichokes

Like I said before, vegetables are sometimes hard things to work with. Now, you will get the inside scoop. For these Fact files, we will have different categories. Those are: characteristics and flavor, origin, growing season, how to prepare, how to tell if it is ripe, possible warnings, health benefits, and fun facts. Personally, I have never had an artichoke, and if you are like me, you might want to pick some of these up once you hear how good they are for you.

Characteristics: The artichoke, like almost all other vegetables, is green. They have a thick stalk at the bottom. The outer leaves are hard, and the inner leaves are soft. The most common part of the artichoke that is eaten is the heart. When it is cooked, it has a pretty mild flavor.

Origin: Artichokes originated somewhere near the Mediterranean. Possibly Sicily or near the old city of Carthage.  

Growing Season: Artichokes are usually planted in late winter, and have edible buds on them from mid-summer to fall. The most popular harvest time is in the spring, and the best time to get them is from March-May.

How to tell if it is ripe: make sure that the bud has just opened. If the flower starts to bloom, it is overripe.

How to Prepare: According to source 2, there are several steps to go through to be able to eat artichokes.

1. Wash in cold water and remove the film.
2. Cut one inch off the top and bottom. (optional: cut off the thorns and the tips of the petals)
3. Spread open the petals and put in your favorite seasonings for flavor.
4. Bring water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 25-45 minutes or until the leaves can be easily pulled off.




Health Benefits: There are numerous health benefits of artichokes. some are:

-Rich in Vitamin C

-Protects against some forms of cancer
-Heart healthy, reduces cholesterol
-Loaded with Potassium, which neutralizes excess sodium
-Supports good liver health, and prevents liver blockages
-Helps to prevent birth defects
-Increases good bone health
-Rich in fiber, which helps the digestive system
-Beneficial for brain health

Warnings: Some people might have sensitivities to artichokes, due to allergies.

Fun Facts: Did you know:

-the artichoke is technically defined as a thistle?
-the artichoke has the highest antioxidant levels of all vegetables.
-artichokes are one of the oldest foods known to mankind.
-Marilyn Monroe was named the "artichoke queen" in 1948.

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For more information, go to:

(1) https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/other/health-benefits-of-artichokes.html

(2) http://www.oceanmist.com/artichokes/prepare-artichoke/

(3) http://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_cook_and_eat_an_artichoke/

(4) http://www.vegparadise.com/highestperch48.html

(5) https://www.seemonterey.com/food-wine/features/artichoke-tips/

(6) https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/artichoke/how-to-harvest-artichokes.htm