There were some wonderful fresh artichokes at the store this weekend. I
love steamed artichokes with aioli (garlic mayonnaise) dip, and have been
looking for fatfree
ways to enjoy my artichokes. I found that the fatfree mayonnaise
substitute lacks
something (yeah, fat). Last night, I tried adding a tablespoon of white
wine to a fatfree mayo,
and it added just what was needed:
Curry Aioli
1/3 cup fatfree mayo substitute (I used Kraft)
1-2 cloves garlic pressed in garlic press
1-2 tsp curry powder
(1 tsp paprika instead of curry works well, too)
1 tbsp white wine
salt,pepper if desired
Mix them all up and put in fridge while the artichokes steam so the
flavors can combine.
To steam the artichokes, first cut about 1 inch off the tops (I use a
bread knife to saw through
the leaves). Using scissors, cut the top half-inch off each leaf that
has a sharp exposed tip
(you don't want to stick yourself when pulling leaves off). Then put the
artichokes upside down
into about 1 inch of boiling water with some herbs and garlic in it. (I
steamed my artichokes in
water with garlic cloves and fresh rosemary, but there are a lot of other
good things to throw in
like lemon slices, basil, oregano, or other herbs). Cover loosely,
reduce heat to simmer and
steam for about 40-45 minutes for large artichokes (you might have to
replenish the water).
The outermost leaves might be tough, and you can remove them first before
steaming, although
I don't.
Makes enough for 3-4 artichokes depending on how much dip you like.
Does anyone else have favorite artichoke dips and/or recipes?
Richard Bean
San Bruno, CA
rbean@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
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