How Do You Eat an Artichoke in Rome?

How Do You Eat an Artichoke in Rome?

If you find yourself in Rome, one of the must-try dishes is the artichoke. This thorny vegetable is a staple in Roman cuisine and is prepared in a unique way that you won’t find anywhere else.

So how exactly do you eat an artichoke like a true Roman? Let’s dive into the details.

The Artichoke Preparation

Before diving into the eating part, it’s important to understand how the artichoke is prepared in Rome. The most common variety used is the carciofo romanesco, or Roman artichoke.

To prepare it, the outer leaves are removed until you reach the tender heart of the vegetable. The stem is also trimmed and then boiled or steamed until it becomes tender.

Eating with Your Hands

One of the unique aspects of eating an artichoke in Rome is that it’s meant to be eaten with your hands. No utensils required!

This adds to the rustic charm of this culinary experience.

Step 1: Leaf by Leaf

To start, hold the artichoke by its stem and remove one leaf at a time. Dip the base of each leaf into a sauce or dressing of your choice, such as aioli or vinaigrette.

Then place the base between your teeth and pull it through your teeth to remove the soft flesh. Discard the remaining tough part of the leaf.

Step 2: The Tender Heart

As you work your way through each leaf, you will eventually reach the tender heart of the artichoke. This is where all your efforts pay off!

The heart is the most flavorful and succulent part of the vegetable. Remove any remaining leaves until you are left with just the heart.

Step 3: Savor the Heart

Once you’ve reached the heart, cut it into bite-sized pieces using a knife and fork. This allows you to fully enjoy its delicious taste and creamy texture.

Each bite should be savored, as this is the highlight of your artichoke experience.

Accompaniments and Pairings

Artichokes in Rome are often served with a variety of accompaniments that complement their unique flavor. Here are some popular options:

• Wine: Pair your artichoke with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Vermentino, to enhance its taste.
• Bread: Use a piece of crusty Italian bread to mop up any remaining sauce or dressing.
• Cheese: Some Romans enjoy pairing their artichokes with pecorino cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

So next time you find yourself in Rome, don’t miss out on the opportunity to try an artichoke prepared in the traditional Roman way. Remember to embrace the hands-on approach and savor each leaf and bite of the tender heart.

Buon appetito!