Artichoke

Introduction

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The artichoke (Cynara cardunculus var. scolymus) is a plant in the Asteraceae family, which is cultivated for its edible immature flower buds. The artichoke is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated since ancient times. It is now grown in many parts of the world, including Europe, the Americas, and Asia. Artichokes are commonly used in cooking and have a distinctive taste and texture.

Artichokes

Artichoke is a thistle like flower head with edible fleshy leaves and heart; Mediterranean thistle like plant widely cultivated for its large edible flower head The artichoke, Cynara scolymus, is one of the most ancient plants grown in the world, and its extracts, obtained from different parts of the plant (leaves, fruits and roots), have been used as medicaments from time immemorial. The pharmacological and therapeutic effects of the artichoke on the liver had already been well known in the 17th century.

Description

The artichoke is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. It has large, spiny leaves that can grow up to 60 centimeters long and 30 centimeters wide. The flowers are large, round, and purple, and are composed of many small individual flowers. The edible part of the plant is the immature flower bud, which is harvested before it opens. The artichoke heart is the most prized part of the plant and is located at the base of the bud.

History

The artichoke has been cultivated for thousands of years and was known to the ancient Greeks and Romans. It was believed to have medicinal properties and was used to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive problems and liver disorders. In the 16th century, the artichoke was introduced to Europe and became popular as a culinary delicacy.

Culinary uses

Artichokes are commonly used in cooking and have a distinctive flavor and texture. They can be boiled, steamed, grilled, or roasted and are often served as a side dish or as part of a salad. The artichoke heart is considered the most desirable part of the plant and is often stuffed with a variety of fillings, including breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs. Artichoke hearts are also commonly used in dips and spreads, such as artichoke dip.

Nutritional value

Artichokes are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a healthy addition to any diet. They are also a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and potassium. Artichokes are also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against cancer and other diseases.

Cultivation

Artichokes are grown from seed or by dividing existing plants. They require well-drained soil and a sunny location, and can be grown in most climates. The plants are typically grown as annuals in colder climates, but can be grown as perennials in warmer regions. Artichokes are harvested in the spring and fall, with the best quality buds being harvested in the spring.

History

The artichoke is the prized edible flower head of a spiky thistle. Wild thistles, ancestors of the peculiar-looking artichoke, still grow today in North Africa. Artichokes were so treasured by the Romans that the poor were forbidden from eating them. Artichoke seeds were found during an archaeological dig in an ancient Roman quarry in the eastern Egyptian desert. Artichokes were first cultivated in Italy in the early 15th century and spread through the rest of Europe, where they were also eaten in France and England during the Middle Ages. The First Fleet brought artichoke seeds to Australia and the plants were first cultivated in the fertile soils of Norfolk Island.

Cut flowers from an artichoke

Varieties

The Global Star, a variety without spikes, is grown annually from seed and replanted each year. Other varieties are perennials (they live for more than two years) that flower every year. The head of the artichoke is green or purple. The way the large petals are formed around a long stem gives the impression of an unopened rose. Even though they have a similar name, the Jerusalem artichoke is not an artichoke, although both Jerusalem and globe artichokes are members of the daisy family.

Benefits

• Artichokes are a great source of folate, which is especially important for pregnant women to help reduce the risk of birth defects in their baby.
• They are also a good source vitamin C, niacin and minerals such as magnesium and copper.
• Artichokes are a great source of dietary fiber.
• Energy – 100 g of globe artichokes supplies 145 kJ.

Artichoke Vinagrette

How are they grown and harvested?

The large, edible flower head (artichoke bud) grows on branches from the main stem of the thistle, a plant with prickly, grey-green to bronze-green petals. The thistle can grow up to 1.5 meters and about 15 heads grow on each plant. If the immature flower head is not picked, it will develop into a purple flower and eventually produce seeds that will scatter. Mature thistle plants can cover an area two meters wide, so make sure that you leave room for them to grow when planting. Artichokes grow best in cooler climates. The tennis ball-sized vegetable is harvested around five to six months after planting, when the buds are still firm and the petals closed tight.

Artichoke

Health Benefits

In addition to their nutritional value, artichokes have been associated with a number of health benefits. Studies have shown that the antioxidants in artichokes can help protect against cancer, heart disease, and other chronic conditions. Artichokes also contain compounds that can help lower cholesterol and improve digestion.

Varieties

There are several varieties of artichokes, including the Green Globe, which is the most commonly cultivated variety. Other varieties include the Violetto, the White, and the Baby Artichoke. The Baby Artichoke is a smaller variety that is harvested when the buds are still immature and tender.

Symbolism

The artichoke has been used as a symbol of hospitality and abundance since ancient times. It is also a symbol of hope and fertility, and has been associated with romance and love. In Italian folklore, the artichoke is said to have aphrodisiac properties.

How to store?

Keep fresh artichokes in the crisper section of your fridge. Unwashed artichokes wrapped in plastic bags in the fridge will last for about two weeks.

Keto scale Artichoke

W8MD's Ketometer rating scale zero to 10.

• Lower the number, better it is on a keto or low carb diet
• Net carbs is calculated by total carbohydrates minus fiber

Also see carb counter

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Artichoke dip and pita chips

Nutritional information on Artichoke

NB:Carbohydrate, by difference(total carbs-fiber) is also called net carbs

Conclusion

The artichoke is a versatile and delicious vegetable that has been enjoyed for thousands of years. It is not only nutritious but also offers a range of health benefits. Whether boiled, grilled, or stuffed, the artichoke is a tasty addition to any meal.