Healthy Food Database

Artichokes are a rather exotic and complicated looking vegetables. Even foodies avoid them, unsure of how to tackle them. A member of the thistle family, globe artichokes have large, green heads and require assertive trimming. The outer leaves are first peeled off and discarded, then with a heavy sharp knife, cut off the stalks, and top of the leaves. There's a furry centre that lies above the stalk which must also be prized out. Once done you are ready to cook.

Health benefits
Globe artichokes contain a number of phytonutrients, such as apigenin, cynarin, silymarin and luteolin, which appear to have diuretic properties, detoxifying the liver, boosting gall bladder function, and improving bile flow. Widely used in traditional medicine as a remedy for water retention and liver ailments, globe artichokes are thought to aid digestion and help people who experience stomach acidity. Globe artichokes also contain a lot of soluble fibre, so they won't destabilise blood sugar levels. Some research suggests that artichoke leaf extract may also help ease irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.

To select
High-quality artichokes are usually compact and heavy for their size. Squeezed, a fresh artichoke will make a squeak. Thin stalks without leaves are a sign that the artichoke is old and dehydrated.

To store
The flavour of artichokes diminishes as soon as they are cut from the stalk. For maximum taste and tenderness, cook as soon as possible. Do not stock up on artichokes. Refrigerate unwashed, in a plastic bag, for up to 1 week.

Category: Vegetable