Artichokes, oh how I love them! Their sturdy leaves, the tender heart, and the subtle flavor that surprises your taste buds with each bite. They are truly a culinary delight. But let’s be honest, sometimes we just don’t have the time or patience to steam artichokes the traditional way. That’s where the microwave comes to the rescue! In this article, I’m going to show you just how quick and easy it is to steam an artichoke in the microwave.
Choosing the Perfect Artichoke
Before we dive into the steaming process, let’s talk about choosing the perfect artichoke. Look for artichokes that are heavy for their size, with tightly closed leaves and a vibrant green color. Avoid any artichokes that have brown spots or feel spongy when squeezed. Now that we have our artichoke, let’s get steaming!
Step 1: Prepping the Artichoke
Start by rinsing the artichoke under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, using a sharp knife, trim about half an inch off the top of the artichoke. Next, trim about a quarter of an inch off the stem, removing any tough outer layers. Finally, use a pair of kitchen scissors to snip off the sharp thorns from the tips of the leaves.
Step 2: Steam in the Microwave
Take a microwave-safe dish and fill it with about an inch of water. Place the artichoke upright in the dish, stem-side down. Cover the dish with microwave-safe plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Pop it in the microwave and set the time.
Step 3: Microwaving Time
Now, the question you’ve been waiting for – how long do we need to steam the artichoke in the microwave? The answer depends on the size of your artichoke. Generally, a medium-sized artichoke will take around 6-8 minutes on high power. Keep an eye on the artichoke and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Remember, it’s better to slightly undercook the artichoke than to overcook it.
Step 4: Testing for Doneness
To check if the artichoke is done, carefully remove the plastic wrap, being cautious of the hot steam. Insert a sharp knife into the base of the artichoke. If it goes in easily and the leaves are tender, then your artichoke is ready. If not, cover it back up and microwave for another minute or two, then test again.
Step 5: Let it Rest and Enjoy!
Once the artichoke is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the microwave. Be mindful of the hot steam and use oven mitts if needed. Let the artichoke rest for a couple of minutes before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm or at room temperature as a delightful appetizer or a healthy snack.
A Word of Caution
While steaming artichokes in the microwave is quick and easy, it’s important to exercise caution. Always use oven mitts or a kitchen towel when handling hot dishes. Be mindful of the steam when removing the plastic wrap. And remember, microwaves can vary in power, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. Safety first, my friends!
In conclusion, steaming artichokes in the microwave is a convenient and efficient way to enjoy this delightful vegetable. With a few simple steps, you can have a perfectly steamed artichoke in a matter of minutes. So the next time you’re craving the buttery goodness of an artichoke, give the microwave method a try. You won’t be disappointed!