LOS ANGELES, Ca., March 1, 2012 — Much like their fresh counterpart, the canned artichoke can be a head scratcher when and if you are asked to cook with them.
Canned artichokes can be easier to use, more affordable (though still expensive) and, in some cases, better than a fresh artichoke.
Here are six frequently asked questions about canned artichokes.
1. Should I buy the artichoke hearts in water or in marinade?
It depends on what you’re making but the best rule of thumb is to buy artichokes plain and without t seasoning. This will allow you to add whatever you want during the cooking process.
2. What is the difference between canned artichoke bottoms and canned artichoke hearts?
Canned artichoke bottoms are just the hearts of the artichokes (there are no leaves), whereas canned artichoke hearts include the heart and the interior leaves of the artichoke.
3. Do I need to remove the choke from canned artichokes?
The choke should be left in the canned artichokes. The liquid the hearts are stored in either water, brine or marinade makes the choke soft and edible.
4. Should I drain and rinse artichoke hearts?
Yes, the liquid should be removed from the artichoke hearts, otherwise the liquid will mix into whatever you’re cooking (some dishes will not be affected negatively by the liquid but others will).
The best way to drain the artichoke hearts is to put them leaves side down on a cookie rack or on a paper towel. The liquid can drip through the grates of the cookie rack (set the cookie rack on a cookie sheet or over the sink to collect the liquid) or be absorbed in a paper towel.
5. What is the best way to cut a canned artichoke?
The best way to cut a canned artichoke is by placing the leaves face down or on its side. Then, cut through the heart first, and the leaves second. When you cut through the leaves first it can ruin the presentation of the artichoke heart.
6. Can you eat canned artichokes straight from the can?
Yes, you can eat canned artichokes straight from the can. They can be added to salads, top crostinis, or added to pastas. They can also be cooked in many dishes like chicken and artichokes, artichoke dip or fried artichokes.
Canned artichoke hearts and fresh artichoke hearts are interchangeable in cooking. However, there’s nothing quite like the tender and buttery flavor of a fresh artichoke but, when they’re out of season, a canned artichoke comes in a close second.
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