Carciofi alla Giudia
Jewish-Style Fried Artichokes
A classic Roman Jewish specialty, these artichokes are deep-fried whole until their outer leaves are delightfully crispy and the hearts are tender and flavorful. The unique preparation involves opening the leaves to resemble a blooming flower before frying.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 Roman artichokes (mammole)(Look for firm, heavy artichokes with tightly closed leaves. 'Mammole' are the preferred variety for this dish.)
- 1 whole Lemon(For juice and rubbing.)
- 4-6 cups Olive oil or other neutral high-smoke point oil (like canola or vegetable oil)(Enough to generously submerge the artichokes during frying.)
- to taste Kosher salt or sea salt(For seasoning after frying.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the artichokes: Fill a large bowl with cold water and add the juice of half the lemon. Trim the stem of each artichoke so it stands upright. Snap off the tough outer leaves until you reach the pale green, tender ones. Cut off the top inch of the artichoke. Using a paring knife, trim any remaining dark green or purple parts from the outer leaves and the base. Rub all cut surfaces with the cut side of the lemon to prevent browning. Gently spread the leaves open with your fingers, like opening a flower, to expose the choke. If the choke is present (fuzzy center), carefully scoop it out with a small spoon or paring knife. Submerge the prepared artichokes in the lemon water until ready to fry.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 2
First fry (to tenderize): Heat the oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat to 160°C (320°F). Carefully place the artichokes, open-side down, into the hot oil. Ensure they are submerged. Fry for about 15-20 minutes, or until the outer leaves begin to soften and turn slightly golden, and the artichoke feels tender when pierced with a knife. The goal here is to cook the artichoke through without browning it too much.
⏱️ 15-20 minutes - 3
Second fry (for crispiness): Remove the artichokes from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Increase the oil temperature to 180°C (350°F). Carefully return the artichokes to the hot oil, open-side down. Fry for another 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves are deeply golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
⏱️ 5-7 minutes - 4
Drain and season: Remove the crispy artichokes from the oil and drain them again on paper towels, allowing excess oil to drip off. Place them open-side up on a serving platter. Gently press down on the top of each artichoke to open the leaves further, creating a more appealing presentation. Season generously with salt while still warm. Serve immediately.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Use 'mammole' artichokes, a round, tender variety common in Rome, for the best results.
- ✓The two-stage frying method is crucial: the first fry cooks the artichoke through, and the second fry crisps the leaves.
- ✓This dish originates from the Jewish Ghetto in Rome, where it was a popular way to prepare artichokes.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for each stage to achieve the desired texture.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Garnish with fresh fried parsley leaves added during the second frying stage or sprinkled on top before serving.
- Serve with a wedge of lemon for squeezing over the artichokes.