Artichokes

Artichokes make a great snack in replace of chips and dip or other snacks.  It is interesting to eat a giant thistle flower.

artichokes
artichokes

We got this bunch at our local Italian Market for under 3 for $2.  Not a bad deal.

After steaming them you peel away a few of the top petals and eat the fleshy part near the base.  Using your teeth to just scrape it away.

The best part is the Heart of the Artichoke.  You just have to make sure you remove the thistle part.  The dark green outer layers of the stem might be too bitter for some.  The dark green pieces peel away easily.

artichoke heart
artichoke heart