Artichokes

Related to thistles, are native to the Mediterranean and grown in other parts of the world. These large flower buds have a tightly packed cluster of tough, pointed, prickly leaves that conceal pale green inner leaves and a gray-green base, which together make up the heart. Only the fleshy base of the leaves and the meaty base are eaten; the rest of the leaves and the fuzzy choke inside the heart are discarded. Artichokes are sold fresh year-round in sizes ranging from very small, or baby-about 1 1/2-2 inches (4-5 cm) in diameter-to very large, or globe. Select compact, heavy artichokes with tightly closed leaves; refrigerate in a plastic bag for up to 4 days. Artichokes are also available frozen, canned, and marinated.