Braised Artichokes

Globe artichokes are delicious and easy to find.
They also have an array of properties which are described below.

• 4 medium sized globe artichokes
• 1 clove of garlic
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp white wine
• salt and pepper

Peel the outer leaves of artichokes, cut the stem to 1cm remove the outer leaves until you get to the pale and tenders inner leaves. Cut each artichoke in 8 pieces.

Heat the oil in a large pan, add the whole garlic clove. Tip all of the artichokes into the pan, stir them to mix with the oil and juices. Cover and gently cook for about 10 minutes, until the y are tender.
Serve them hot or just warm, as a side dish.

As a Vegetarian main: Serve simply with cooked rice and a little butter


Nutritional facts of Globe or French artichokes:
This food is very low in Saturated Fat and Cholesterol. It is also a good source of Niacin, Vitamin B6, Iron and Phosphorus, and a very good source of Dietary Fiber, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Folate, Magnesium, Potassium, Copper and Manganese.

Other names:
Alcachofa, Alcaucil, ALE, Artichaut, Artichaut Commun, Artichoke Extract, Artichoke Fruit, Artichoke Leaf, Artichoke Leaf Extract, Artischocke, Cardo, Cardo de Comer, Cardon d'Espagne

Medical uses
Artichoke is used to stimulate the flow of bile from the liver. This is thought to help reduce symptoms of heartburn and alcohol "hangover." Artichoke is also used for high cholesterol, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), kidney problems, anemia, fluid retention (edema), arthritis, bladder infections, and liver problems, including hepatitis C.

Some people use artichoke for treating snakebites, preventing gallstones, lowering blood pressure, lowering blood sugar, to increase urine flow, and as a tonic or stimulant.