• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Food Blogging Resources
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • YouTube

Pip and Ebby

Recipe Index
menu icon
go to homepage
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Index
  • About
  • Contact
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • YouTube
  • ×

    Home » Sides » How to Boil Artichokes and Eat Them, Too!

    How to Boil Artichokes and Eat Them, Too!

    Published: Mar 17, 2023 by Megan Porta · This post may contain affiliate links.

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Learn how to boil artichokes (and eat them, too!). Don’t let this green veggie intimidate you! Artichokes are easy to prepare and such a delicious low carb side or snack.

    Large glass bowl filled with cooked artichokes.

    Original post: November 2010 | Updated: March 2023

    Why This Recipe Works

    I don’t know many people who enjoy cooking, eating and preparing artichokes. They are a little intimidating! And fresh ones certainly don’t look friendly.

    When I purchased my latest batch of artichokes at the grocery store, the gal who checked me out said, “Oh, artichokes. These things are sharp and they poke me all the time. Are they any good?”

    Are they any good? They are delicious!

    This is yet another food that I am grateful my mom introduced me to growing up. I have nibbled on the leaves and heart of many a fresh artichoke in my life.

    If you have never prepared and eaten a fresh artichoke, you must! I promise you’ll fall in love.

    How To Boil Artichokes Without a Steamer – Step-by-Step Guide

    How do you boil whole artichokes, you ask?! You’re about to learn! Boiling artichokes is easy peasy.

    Step 1

    Cut off the tips of all of the leaves using kitchen scissors. There is no other reason for doing this than avoiding getting poked when handling them. The thorny tips can be sharp.

    Fresh whole artichokes with tops of leaves cut off.

    Step 2

    Cut off about an inch from the top of the artichoke using a sharp knife.

    Step 3

    There are a couple ways to cook an artichoke. Steamer baskets work well when inserted into a pan with a couple inches of water on the bottom. If you don’t have a steamer basket to steam artichokes, a saucepan will work just fine.

    Fill a large pot with 3-4 inches of water and add the artichokes (they won’t be fully immersed – this is ok) along with one Bay Leaf and four cloves of garlic. I occasionally throw in a lemon half, as well.

    Whole artichokes in a pan of water with bay leaf and garlic cloves.

    Step 4

    Cover the pot and bring water to a boil. Reduce boiling water to medium-low heat and let cook, still covered, for 30-40 minutes, or until outer leaves can be easily removed.

    Cook time will vary depending on the size of the artichoke:

    • Small: 20-30 minutes
    • Medium: 30-40 minutes
    • Large: 40-45 minutes

    How To Eat Artichokes

    Now onto my favorite part: eating artichokes!

    Step 1

    Melt a few tablespoons of butter in a small bowl in the microwave. This will be your dipping sauce when the artichoke is ready to eat!

    Hand pulling bottom leaves from an artichoke at the base, near the stem.

    Step 2

    Begin pulling the leaves off of the boiled artichokes starting at the base. Dip the base of the leaf into the melted butter. Insert leaf into mouth and scrape teeth against it in order to pull the “meat” from it.

    Discard what is left of the leaf.

    HAnd holding up prepared cooked artichoke heart.

    Step 3

    Continue doing this until you reach the center of the artichoke, sometimes called the hairy choke. You will see thin, small leaves and underneath them a layer of white fuzz.

    Hairy choke of cooked artichoke exposed, sitting on a cutting board.

    Cut in half lengthwise and then cut out the fuzzy center with a knife. I personally find this to be a bit easier than trying to scrape it out with a spoon.

    Artichoke heart on cutting board surrounded by leaves.

    Step 4

    What is left will be the most delectable, edible parts veggie. This is called the artichoke heart and it is delicious. Squirt fresh lemon juice over the surface, dip in butter and eat the delicious artichoke heart right down to the stem.

    Note: When serving as a side dish, plan for 1 artichoke per person.

    How To Cook Baby Artichokes

    Use the same instructions detailed in this post when cooking smaller artichokes, but decrease cook time to 20-30 minutes.

    How To Store Artichokes At Home

    Extend the shelf life of fresh artichokes by following these storage tips:

    • Use kitchen shears to trim the artichoke stems down to about 1 inch in length. You will also want to remove any of the leaves that are discolored or tough.
    • Place trimmed artichokes in a sealed plastic bag and place in either a crisper drawer or push toward the back of the fridge, as it is the coldest part.
    • Keep them refrigerated at all times, as this will extend the shelf life of artichokes.
    • They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days, but you should prepare and enjoy them as soon as possible after purchasing for the best quality and flavor experience.

    How To Tell if an Artichoke is Done

    Avoid mushiness and loss of flavor by cooking artichokes perfectly. There are a handful of methods you can use to determine if an artichoke is done cooking:

    • The cooking time is typically between 30-45 minutes, depending on the size of your artichokes. Medium artichokes need to boil for approximately 30 minutes and larger artichokes should boil for 45 minutes.
    • When your timer dings, pluck a leaf from the middle portion of the artichoke. It should comes out easily and the base of the leaf should be tender.
    • You can also try inserting a sharp knife into the base of the prepared artichoke. It should go in smoothly, with no resistance.

    How To Cook Artichokes In Microwave

    Place a single fresh, trimmed artichoke on a rimmed microwave-safe dish. Add a 1/2 inch of water to the bottom of the dish. Cover with a lid. Microwave artichokes on high heat for 10 minutes.

    Remove from the microwave and let sit at room temperature, still covered, for an additional 5 minutes.

    How To Make Instant Pot Artichokes

    Make steamed artichokes in your pressure cooker! It’s super easy and delicious. Cooked in just 10 minutes and with little effort you’ll get to the heart of the delicious vegetable.

    Recipes With Artichokes

    If you are an artichoke lover like myself, you will want ideas about how to use them in different recipes!

    Check out this collection of recipes using artichoke hearts. The following recipes, as well as additional side dish, appetizer and artichoke dinner ideas are included:

    • Best Ever Pasta Salad is my favorite pasta salad recipe of ALL TIME. It is packed full of delicious bites (think olives, salami, chunks of cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes!) and it is the perfect food to bring to potlucks.
    • Spinach Artichoke Dip is a party staple! People always get excited about this dip and its so easy to make! It’s a filling, cheesy snack or appetizer that you can put on pita squares, crackers or chips.
    Bowl of cooked artichokes with butter dipping sauce nearby.

    Artichoke Dipping Sauces

    Here are a few tasty dipping sauce options for this scrumptious green veggie:

    • Lemon butter – My absolute favorite dip for artichokes! Melt butter in a small saucepan and add fresh lemon juice, salt and pepper.
    • Mayo – Combine mayonnaise, mustard, garlic and lemon juice to create a creamy dipping sauce.
    • Ranch Dressing – Use store-bought dressing or make your own by mixing sour cream, buttermilk, mayo, garlic, salt and pepper.

    Substitute for Artichoke Hearts

    Artichokes have such a delicious and unique flavor, but if you are looking for a substitute for artichoke hearts we have some yummy options!

    How Long Does An Artichoke Last In The Fridge

    If you are unsure about how to store fresh artichokes or whether your veggie is still edible, read on!

    Can Dogs Eat Artichoke Hearts

    Although artichokes are not toxic for dogs, they are not recommended for their consumption since they may cause gastrointestinal issues. The prickly leaves and the fuzzy choke can also be potential choking hazards.

    However, artichoke hearts, after being separated from leaves and fuzzy portions, can safely be fed to your dog in moderation.

    Cooking Tutorials

    • How to Cut a Pineapple
    • Cook Perfect Hard-Boiled Eggs
    • How to Cut a Mango
    • Learn to Cut an Avocado
    • Make Perfect Shredded Hash Browns in Your Air Fryer

    Will you help add value to Pip and Ebby?
    If you make this recipe and love it, stop back and give it a 5-star rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ and leave a comment. THANK YOU!

    How To Boil Artichokes Without a Steamer (and eat them!)

    Learn how to boil artichokes (and eat them, too!). Don't let this green veggie intimidate you! Artichokes are easy to prepare and beyond delicious.
    5 from 1 vote
    Print Pin Rate
    Course: Side Dish
    Cuisine: American
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 35 minutes
    Servings: 4
    Calories: 231kcal
    Author: Megan Porta

    Ingredients

    • 4 large artichokes fresh
    • 1 bay leaf
    • 4 cloves garlic cut in half
    • 3 lemon cut into wedges
    • 5 tbsp butter melted

    Instructions

    Cook The Artichokes

    • Cut off the tips of all of the leaves using kitchen shears. There is no other reason for doing this than avoiding getting poked when handling them. They can be sharp.
    • Cut off about an inch from the top of the artichoke using a sharp knife.
    • There are a couple ways to cook an artichoke. Steamer baskets work well when inserted into a pan with a couple inches of water on the bottom. If you don’t have a steamer basket to steam the artichokes, a saucepan will work just fine. Fill a large pot with 3-4 inches of water and add the artichokes (they won’t be fully immersed – this is ok) along with one Bay Leaf and four cloves of garlic. I occasionally throw in a couple lemon slices, as well.
    • Cover the pot and bring water to a boil. Reduce to medium-low heat and let cook, still covered, for 30-40 minutes, or until outer leaves can be easily removed.

    Eat The Artichokes

    • Melt a few tablespoons of butter in a small bowl in the microwave. This will be your dipping sauce when the artichoke is ready to eat.
    • Begin pulling the leaves off of the artichoke starting at the base. Dip the base of the leaf into the melted butter. Insert leaf into mouth and scrape teeth against it in order to pull the “meat” from it. Discard what is left of the leaf.
    • Continue doing this until you reach the center of the artichoke, sometimes called the fuzzy choke. You will see thin, small leaves and underneath them a layer of white fuzz. Cut in half lengthwise and then cut out the fuzzy portion with a knife. I personally find this to be a bit easier than trying to scrape it out with a spoon.
    • What is left will be the most delectable and meaty part of the entire artichoke. This is called the artichoke heart and it is delicious. Squirt fresh lemon juice over the surface, dip in butter and eat down to the stem.

    Notes

    Make Steamed Artichokes in your Instant Pot! It’s super easy and delicious. Cooked in just 10 minutes and with little effort you’ll get to the heart of the delicious vegetable.

    Recipes With Artichokes

    If you are an artichoke lover like myself, you will want ideas about how to use them in different recipes!
    Check out this collection of recipes using artichoke hearts. The following recipes, as well as additional side dish, appetizer and artichoke dinner ideas are included:
    • Best Ever Pasta Salad is my favorite pasta salad recipe of ALL TIME. It is packed full of delicious bites (think olives, salami, chunks of cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes!) and it is the perfect food to bring to potlucks.
    • Spinach Artichoke Dip is a party staple! People always get excited about this dip and its so easy to make! It’s a filling, cheesy snack or appetizer that you can put on pita squares, crackers or chips.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 231kcal | Carbohydrates: 26g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 15g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Cholesterol: 38mg | Sodium: 281mg | Potassium: 723mg | Fiber: 11g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 482IU | Vitamin C: 63mg | Calcium: 102mg | Iron: 3mg
    Did you make this recipe?If you loved this recipe, please rate the recipe and leave a comment below!
    « Best Instant Pot Cheesecake Recipe
    What To Eat With Lemon Curd – 21 delish ideas! »

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Mindi

      March 30, 2018 at 9:12 pm

      I love mine steamed. When I add them to the pot, I create an aioli: mayo, lemon juice minced garlic, salt, dill and chili powder. I set this in the fridge so the flavors marry while my artichoke steaks, then I dip the leaves in that. I wish I could have artichoke every day!

      Reply
      • Megan Porta

        March 31, 2018 at 2:50 am

        Ooooh, aioli is a great idea! Thanks for sharing that recipe with us! That would be good on a variety of foods.

        Reply
    2. Virginia

      April 02, 2016 at 7:33 pm

      We always ate these at my grandpa’s with mayo… Childhood memories, so delicious!

      Reply
    3. Kim

      April 02, 2016 at 11:26 am

      Artichokes do not need butter. It’s sinful to cover their taste that way. My grandmother used to make stuffed artichoke in a red sauce. They were incredible. But steaming is a good . Quick delicious alternative. Forget the butter. Eat them straight. My partner dips them in mayo. Gross. Plain or Italian style. Leave the butter to the lobster

      Reply
    4. Christy

      December 11, 2015 at 2:53 pm

      And I am cooking them chopped up with brown rice vegetables and lemon:)

      Reply
    5. Christy

      December 11, 2015 at 2:52 pm

      My mom always cooks them like this.we boil the hearts of the artichokes together with carrots and potatoes and spices.after they are tender we make( I don’t know the English word but we beat the white of 2 eggs until fluffy then incorporate the eggs yolks then continue beating with lemon) when that’s done we take the water from the artichokes and mix them.and it’s delicious!!!

      Reply
    6. Erika

      October 20, 2012 at 4:09 am

      We ate artichokes often when I was growing up. We would dip them in either melted butter or mayonnaise, which was my dads favorite way of eating them. No matter what you use as a dip, they are very good, especially the heart.

      Reply
    7. Laurie

      February 28, 2012 at 2:25 am

      Thanks for posting. Always wanted to try one fresh, but never know how to do it!

      Reply
    8. kk

      February 27, 2012 at 5:18 am

      Hello,
      Usually our dip consist of crushed garlic, lemon juice, salt & light olive oil.

      Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

    Recipe Rating




    Primary Sidebar

    I'm Megan and I am so happy you are here! Whether you are looking for a healthy salad, easy dinner or indulgent dessert, I've got you covered! Let's dig deeper →

    Web Stories Library

    Dominate Your Instant Pot!

    Food Blogging Resources

    Yummy Desserts

    Lemon Curd With Egg Yolks Recipe

    What To Eat With Lemon Curd – 21 delish ideas!

    Best Instant Pot Cheesecake Recipe

    Easy Banana Bars Recipe

    Baked Cinnamon Apple Slices Recipe

    cropped-0818OreoBalls511B9431post.jpg

    3 Ingredient No Bake Oreo Balls Recipe

    Comforting Soups

    World’s Best Chili Recipe

    How To Freeze Chili

    Chicken and Dumplings Recipe With Canned Biscuits

    Easy Crab Soup Recipe

    Ham Bone Bean Soup With Potatoes

    How Long Does Chili Last In The Fridge

    Footer

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Snapchat
    • Twitter
    • YouTube

    As Featured In

    • Privacy Policy

    Copyright © 2023 Pip and Ebby on the Foodie Pro Theme