Steamed Artichokes with Dipping Sauce Recipe

Recipe by The FruitGuys

Mix it up in the kitchen with this simple recipe for steamed artichokes with dipping sauce! The prehistoric-looking artichoke can feel intimidating, but steam it perfectly and pair it with a honey-sesame dip, and you’ll be surprised how it transforms into a comfort food. The dipping sauce has a rich umami taste that perfectly complements every tender leaf and heart.

This wholesome dish is easy to make and full of flavor from the nutty sesame oil, fragrant garlic, and bright lemon juice. Enjoy it as a shareable appetizer or a light meal.

Note: This recipe requires a steamer insert/steamer basket. If you don’t have one handy, you can skip the artichoke preparation steps below and microwave the artichokes instead, then make the dipping sauce as instructed. Microwaved artichokes will still taste delicious paired with the dip.

Ingredients

• 2 artichokes
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Dipping Sauce:

1. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
2. 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
4. 2 tablespoons sesame oil
5. 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
6. 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
7. 3/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation

For Artichokes:

1. Boil Water: Fill a pan with just enough water to cover the bottom. Bring to a full boil over high heat.
2. Prepare the Artichokes: While the water is heating, trim and discard the stems and tough outer leaves of the artichokes.
3. Add Filling: Tuck slivers of butter and slices of garlic between the artichoke leaves.
4. Arrange the Steamer: When water is boiling, place steamer insert in a pot and set artichokes in the steamer, stem-side down.
5. Steam the Artichokes: Cover the pot with a lid and allow artichokes to steam for approximately 20 minutes, until tender enough that you can pull a leaf off.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve artichokes warm, with dipping sauce.

For Dipping Sauce

1. Mix Ingredients: Whisk all sauce ingredients in a small bowl and blend well.
2. Cool and Serve: Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Cook’s Note

To make it easier to prepare the artichokes, use kitchen scissors to snip off the sharp tips of the outer leaves. You’ll end up with a cleaner presentation and an easier eating experience. Be careful not to overcook the artichokes, as they can quickly become too soft and mushy.

FAQs

1. Are there other ways to add garlic to this steamed artichokes recipe?

The most effective way to add garlic to the artichokes is to tuck garlic between the artichoke leaves before steaming. However, you can add fresh garlic to the steaming liquid or pair the cooked artichokes with a garlicky dipping sauce. Any way you cook it, the garlic will add a delicious depth and aroma to your artichoke dish.

2. Is the sesame dipping sauce vegan?

Our dipping sauce includes both honey and mayonnaise, so it’s not vegan. You can easily make a vegan version by swapping honey for maple syrup and mayonnaise for a vegan mayo.

3. Can I make the dipping sauce ahead of time?

Yes. You can whip up this homemade sauce for artichokes in advance and refrigerate it until serving time. Letting the flavors rest together might even make the dipping sauce more flavorful.