Carciofi alla Romana
Roman Braised Artichokes
A classic Roman dish featuring tender artichokes braised with garlic, mint, white wine, and olive oil. The key is to cook them until they are meltingly soft.
🧂 Ingredients
- 4 Roman artichokes (or globe artichokes)(Choose artichokes that are heavy for their size and have tightly closed leaves. If using globe artichokes, ensure they are young and tender.)
- 1 bunch Fresh mint(About 1/2 cup loosely packed leaves. Spearmint is traditional and works best.)
- 4 cloves Garlic(Peeled and thinly sliced.)
- 200 ml Dry white wine(Such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.)
- generous Extra virgin olive oil(Approximately 4-6 tablespoons, plus more for drizzling.)
- 120 ml Water(Or vegetable broth, for braising liquid.)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper(Freshly ground.)
- 1 Lemon(Optional, for rubbing artichokes to prevent browning.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the artichokes: Fill a large bowl with cold water and add the juice of half a lemon (or rub the cut surfaces of the artichokes with lemon). Snap off the tough outer leaves of each artichoke until you reach the tender, pale green ones. Trim off the top inch of the artichoke. Using a sharp knife or vegetable peeler, trim the tough outer layer of the stem, leaving about 2 inches attached. Cut off the remaining stem flush with the base. If the artichoke is very large, you can cut about 1/4 inch off the top point. Gently spread the leaves open to expose the fuzzy choke inside. Using a small spoon or melon baller, carefully scoop out the fuzzy choke and any purple inner leaves. Immediately place the prepared artichoke in the lemon water to prevent browning. Repeat with remaining artichokes.
⏱️ 20 minutes - 2
Prepare the stuffing: Finely chop the fresh mint leaves. In a small bowl, combine the chopped mint, sliced garlic, a generous pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add a tablespoon of olive oil to help bind the mixture.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 3
Stuff the artichokes: Drain the prepared artichokes. Gently pry open the leaves of each artichoke and carefully stuff the mint and garlic mixture into the center, distributing it evenly between the leaves. Press the artichoke gently to help it hold its shape.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 4
Arrange and braise: Heat a generous amount of olive oil (about 3-4 tablespoons) in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat (180°C / 350°F). Place the stuffed artichokes stem-side up in the pot, packing them snugly together. Add the white wine and water (or broth) to the pot. Season with a little more salt and pepper. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the artichokes.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Braise until tender: Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Reduce the heat to low (around 150°C / 300°F) and let the artichokes braise for 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the base of an artichoke meets very little resistance and the leaves are tender and can be easily pulled away. Check periodically and add a splash more water or wine if the liquid level gets too low. Be careful not to overcook them into mush.
⏱️ 40-50 minutes - 6
Serve: Carefully remove the artichokes from the pot using a slotted spoon. Drizzle with a little fresh extra virgin olive oil and serve warm. The braising liquid can be spooned over the artichokes or served alongside.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The Roman variety of artichoke (Carciofo Romanesco) is ideal for this dish due to its tender leaves and lack of a tough inner choke. If unavailable, globe artichokes are a good substitute.
- ✓Don't skip the lemon water step; it's crucial for preventing browning.
- ✓The artichokes are done when a knife can easily pierce the base and a leaf can be pulled away with little effort.
- ✓The braising liquid, infused with garlic, mint, and wine, is delicious and can be served as a sauce.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add finely chopped fresh parsley along with the mint for a slightly different herbaceous note.
- Include other tender vegetables like young peas or fava beans in the braising liquid during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.