Basic Steamed Artichoke

Directions

1. 1
   Snap off the stem.
2. 2
   With a stainless steel knife, slice off the top, about 1 inch from the pointed end.
3. 3
   Use scissors to cut off the tips of the outer leaves.
4. 4
   Rub all cut surfaces with lemon juice.
5. 5
   Bring water to a boil in a pot with a steamer insert.
6. 6
   Place the artichoke in the insert and cover the pot tightly.
7. 7
   Steam until the base is tender and the leaves pull out easily, about 40 minutes.
8. 8
   If serving whole, pull out the cone of leaves in the center of the artichoke.
9. 9
   Use a small spoon to scoop out the choke.
10. 10
    If using the heart only, pull away all of the leaves and then scoop out the choke.
11. 11
    You will need approximately 8 large artichokes to get the equivalent of 1 13 3/4-ounce can of artichoke hearts.