It’s artichoke season: Where to get, how to cook, and how to eat this local veggie
Over the last couple weeks you may have noticed an abundance of fresh artichokes while doing your weekly grocery shopping. Ocean Mist Farms’ artichokes are at their prime during the spring, and because 99 percent of North American artichokes are harvested in California, they’re lining the local produce section.
Artichokes are some of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available, but they are often overlooked because many shoppers don’t know much about them—how do you cook it? How do you eat it? Soon followed by: How can I get even more of this?!
We’re here to answer those questions for you, including how you can get even more Ocean Mist Farms artichokes at a decades-old and renowned festival. After all, even though ‘chokes may not be your common dinner side, once you know that they’re low in calories and packed with protein, fiber, vitamin C, magnesium, folate, and antioxidants, it’s hard not to include them on the shopping list.
How to cook an artichoke
The artichoke is a multitalented vegetable and can be prepared to eat in its whole state and as a base ingredient in hummus and dips. It can be baked, boiled, steamed, or grilled, and to help you with your preparation, Ocean Mist Farms’ has put together a detailed video recipe collection.
How to eat an artichoke
Artichokes have a creamy texture and a fresh taste to be savored. Once the veggie is cooked, pull off the petals one by one and dip them in your favorite sauce (butter, mayo, and lemon are favorites). Pull the petal through your slightly clenched teeth to remove the soft, tender flesh at the bottom of the petal, discarding the remainder.
When you get to the center, you’ll notice a fuzzy layer. This layer, known as the choke, is tough and fibrous, so you’ll want to remove it with a spoon. After that, you’ll have reached the best part: the heart, a petal-free, soft, creamy chunk.
How to get even more artichokes
The Castroville Artichoke Food & Wine Festival began in 1959 as a harvest festival to celebrate the iconic vegetable and the region known as the “artichoke center of the world.” Over the years, the festival became a primary source of funding for local nonprofit groups, including Castroville’s own farming community, that depend upon a successful event for their viability. This year’s festival will be in full swing from June 3 to 4 and will feature the following delectable events:
FEATURED
Chef demos: The Monterey Bay area is home to many talented chefs, and they love to show off their skills with the artichoke.
AGRO ART: This competition for all ages challenges participants to craft a fruit and vegetable sculpture. Each piece is created that day at the festival to the enjoyment and amazement of festival attendees. Over $6,500 in cash prizes are at stake!
Farmers market: Some claim this to be the crown jewel of the festival—where else can you shop for locally grown, hand-harvested vegetables? Artichokes in a variety of sizes and other fresh fruits and veggies are the draw here. Of course, homemade goodies starring artichokes are a must for an artichoke festival, so you’ll find hummus, pasta sauce, herb bread, and even artichoke-shaped cookies to enjoy.
Field tours: Artichoke experts will lead guided tours of Castroville fields for a personalized educational experience about what it takes to grow this unique vegetable, which, by the way, is actually an unbloomed flower.
Wine and beer garden: Guests over 21 can stroll and sip wine and craft beer from some of the top California producers.
Get your tickets to join fellow artichoke lovers at this unique and fun festival here.
Join the Artichoke Club for free weekly giveaways all year round
Yes, artichokes are in prime season right now and the Artichoke Food & Wine Festival happens only once a year, but did you know that artichokes actually grow in California year round? By signing up for Ocean Mist Farms’ Artichoke Club, you can join other members for a weekly chance to win a free case of artichokes straight from the farm.