Fried Whole Artichokes

Directions

1. 1
   Choose only the smallest, most tender, of the young and green fresh artichokes.
2. 2
   Once they
3. 3
   have developed their purple choke inside they are no longer desirable.
4. 4
   Wash the artichokes carefully.
5. 5
   Trim the pointy ends of the leaves, cut off the top 1/4-inch and tear off and discard and blemished outer leaves.
6. 6
   Cut the artichokes in two and sprinkle with lemon juice to prevent blackening.
7. 7
   Mix the water, flour, salt and pepper together in a bowl until smooth.
8. 8
   Heat the olive oil in a saute pan over medium heat for 1 minute.
9. 9
   Dip the artichoke halves in the batter and fry, choke side down, for 2 to 3 minutes until crisp.
10. 10
    Turn the artichokes over and fry the outside leaves in the same way.
11. 11
    Serve hot with lemon wedges and freshly chopped parsley