Artichokes Bagna Cauda Food

GRILLED ARTICHOKES WITH BAGNA CAUDA

Steps:

• For the grilled artichokes: In a medium Dutch oven, combine the white wine, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 cup water. Squeeze in the juice from the lemon halves and then drop the lemon halves into the pot. With a small spoon, scoop out the furry choke from each of the artichoke halves.
• Place the artichokes in the pot, cut-side down. Cover the pot and bring the poaching liquid to a simmer over medium-high heat; reduce the heat to medium low to maintain a gentle simmer. Poach the artichokes for 10 minutes, or until the tip of a paring knife slides in easily at the thickest point. Remove the artichokes to a wire rack to drain and cool slightly.
• For the bagna cauda: Place a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the olive oil, garlic and anchovy paste to the hot pan and stir with a wooden spoon, mashing the anchovy paste into the oil. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and just beginning to toast. Stir in the butter, one piece at a time, until completely incorporated. Season with a pinch of salt. Keep warm over low heat.
• To finish the grilled artichokes: Preheat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Drizzle the artichokes with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt.
• Place the artichokes on the grill, cut-side down; grill until nicely browned, 4 minutes. Turn the artichokes and grill for another 2 minutes, pressing down gently for even browning.
• Serve the artichokes with the bagna cauda on the side for dipping.

ARTICHOKES BAGNA CAUDA

Steps:

• Trim the stalks from the artichokes. Place three inches water in a large pot (do not use aluminum) and add the lemon juice. Simmer the artichokes until done (about 30 minutes). Drain upside down and serve at room temperature.
• Meanwhile, make the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a small pan and add the butter. When it has melted, add the garlic and saute for one to two minutes. Do not allow it to brown. Add the anchovies and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until they have reduced to a paste. Add the parsley and pepper and cool.
• Serve the sauce on the side with the artichokes, using it as a dip.