Did you know that artichoke is a vegetable? I’m sure you did. But do you know what does artichoke taste like? What do artichokes look like even? The chances are you may have seen the vegetable in your local supermarket like a hundred times by now. But you failed to recognize it, until now.
Artichokes are not popular, and that is quite evident here. So those who don’t know what it looks like obviously know nothing about how it tastes. In that case, let me clear all your doubts about this vegetable that looks like a flower.
Table of Contents
What Does Artichoke Taste Like?
Artichoke is a completely edible vegetable. Just by looking at it you cannot decide what it tastes like. And this rule applies to all vegetables, not just artichokes. Although I won’t deny that artichokes appear to be inedible at first sight. But once cooked properly, artichokes start to look very delicious.
The taste of the vegetable depends on how it’s processed or cooked. So how about I discuss the topic of how do you cook artichokes. Only then will I be able to paint a clear picture of what an artichoke tastes like.
Just know one thing though. That artichoke is packed with loads of nutrients. So the health benefits should be reason enough to consume the vegetable. And if not, then how about I convince you by describing the delicious taste of the different methods of cooking artichoke!
1. Fresh Artichokes
Fresh artichokes mean uncooked artichokes. Does it surprise you to know that you can consume raw artichokes? Eating this vegetable raw might not be a common occurrence. Even so, it is perfectly okay and normal to enjoy uncooked artichokes.
The benefit of eating fresh, raw artichokes is that you get to consume all the nutrients as-is. That means all the rich antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. And this applies to just about every vegetable that is safe to eat raw.
The taste of the uncooked version is best described as nutty, crunchy, and light. So wash the vegetable thoroughly. And feel free to add it to your delicious salads.
How to Cook Artichokes | Food How To
2. Steamed Artichokes
If there’s the most common type of cooking method for artichokes, it’s steaming them. The method is easy and quick. And does an excellent job of preserving the high nutritional value of the vegetable. Once again, this applies to all vegetables.
You can steam artichokes just like the way you prepare rice. Don’t hesitate to use the rice cooker for steaming artichokes.
As for what do steamed artichokes taste like, the answer is juicy, soft, and sweet.
Read more: What Does Asparagus Taste Like? How to Cook Asparagus?
3. Boiled Artichokes
Steamed and boiled artichokes taste nearly the same. The latter just carries with it a slightly nutty and sweet taste. But the kind that doesn’t appeal to those who like eating spicy food.
For enhancing the flavor, you can add a little bit of salt at the time of boiling artichokes. Talking about enhancing the flavor, feel free to serve boiled artichokes with mayonnaise or butter. You can use any other sauce of your choice as well for creating a yummy flavor of your own.
4. Fried Artichokes
Frying the vegetable is another way of preparation. And a very interesting one at that! It’s because frying artichokes add more flavor and texture to the vegetable. You can stir-fry or pan-fry. But please note that the original nutritional value gets compromised when you fry. However, the taste remains delicious.
What about the taste of fried artichokes? It’s like fried asparagus; only nuttier and sweeter. Fried artichokes also taste a little bit like fried egg whites.
5. Grilled Artichokes
Grilling artichokes is a very uncommon and unusual method. Even so, the outcome can be very appetizing. What the process of grilling does is enhances the flavor of the vegetable. So it tastes better.
Therefore, grilled artichokes taste more intensified and distinct. They don’t taste nutty anymore. Instead, a smoky and sweeter flavor comes into the picture.
Grilled asparagus and grilled artichokes have a lot in common. Even in terms of texture. But, no doubt, the taste of the latter is bound to surprise you pleasantly.
Now that you know what does artichoke taste like, it’s time to understand the many health benefits.
Read more: How to Reheat Crab Legs in 5 Super Easy Ways
Health Benefits of Artichoke
#1 Rich Magnesium Content
Artichokes offer high levels of magnesium. A medium-sized artichoke is packed with 77mg of magnesium.
Magnesium in the body is responsible for taking part in more than 600 physiological reactions. Magnesium boosts bone health and cardiovascular health. It also helps in dealing with diabetes, anxiety, and migraines.
#2 Rich Dietary Fiber Content
Dietary fiber’s job in the body is to add bulk to the stool. It helps a great deal when it comes to moving stuff through the intestinal tracts. Thus, artichokes contribute to preventing diarrhea and constipation.
Dietary fiber also manages to stabilize blood sugar levels. And the best part is that just 1 medium-size artichoke covers as much as 25-percent of daily fiber requirements. And that is 6.9 grams.
#3 Rich Potassium Content
First off, let me tell you that potassium neutralizes the content of sodium in the body. And that, in turn, curbs blood pressure. So it’s a good thing that artichokes are loaded with potassium. To be more specific, a medium artichoke meets around 10-percent of your daily potassium requirements. And that is 473mg of potassium.
#4 Rich Vitamin Content
The first is Vitamin K, which benefits your nervous system and brain health. Then there’s Vitamin D for keeping your bones healthy and strong.
Conclusion
To sum it up, it’s not a bad-tasting vegetable. You can prepare it in many ways. This includes boiling, steaming, grilling, and frying. And if you prefer, you can consume it raw or uncooked too. You end up reaping the most benefits of the high nutritional value that way.
Artichokes, when uncooked, taste nutty, crunchy, and light. And when cooked, they offer a sweet flavor. But if you love to devour spicy foods, then you might not appreciate the taste of artichokes. So now you know what does artichoke taste like.
Read more: Can You Freeze Soy Milk? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Lisa says
I’ve always wondered how to prepare and cook artichoke, so thank you for sharing this information!
Sterling Lopez says
Thanks Lisa,
Keep update with our blog to know more articles.
Sterling