| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 146 | 8g | 2g | 12g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 3g | 3g | 6g | 0.38g |
Braised Chinese Artichokes with Soy Sauce is an absolute delight, and anyone who has indulged in this vibrant, flavor-rich Asian-inspired dish knows why. Reminiscent of California’s own venture into adopting exotic flavors, this recipe beautifully marries health-consciousness with a delectable dining experience. After all, who doesn’t love the delicious face of comfort food that is good for the body?
Health Meets Flavor
In this braised Chinese Artichokes with Soy Sauce recipe, every ingredient has a role to play – not only in taste but also in the nutritional value. The star ingredient – Chinese artichokes, also known as Crosnes, are packed with essential nutrients including vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. These small tubers are not only a powerful antioxidant but they also contribute to heart health and boost immunity. Combined with spices and condiments like fresh ginger and garlic, both known for their medicinal properties, these artichokes are sautéed to perfection in olive and sesame oil – which both have numerous health benefits. The vegetable broth adds another layer of nutritious flavor into the mix, making it a hearty and healthy dish that you’ll love to serve again and again.
Perfect Pair
This dish could be touted as an innovative spin on the classic braised artichokes in French cuisine (source). At the same time, it can perfectly complement a bowl of warm jasmine rice or a plate of grilled chicken breasts. The spicy kick from the red pepper flakes (a nod to both my love for spice and Asian food), matched with the sweetness of honey and the savory depth of soy sauce creates a balance of flavors that can elevate even the simplest of pairings. And, if you are looking to add an extra bit of crunch to your meal, it pairs incredibly well with roasted almonds. It would not only add texture but also some added nutritional benefits (source).
There you have it: nutrition-packed, bursting with flavor, and a perfect accompaniment to a variety of main dishes, Braised Chinese Artichokes with Soy Sauce is a recipe that echoes what I stand for in the world of cuisine. Wholesome ingredients, creative flavor pairing, and an added sprinkle of California warmth is all that is needed to make this robust, health-rich dish a part of your kitchen routine.
What You’ll Need
- 12 Chinese artichokes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon finely grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Method
Step One
Start by cleaning the Chinese artichokes properly and trim the ends. Set aside for now.
Step Two
Heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the artichokes to the pan. Cook them, stirring occasionally, until they become golden brown. This should usually take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step Three
In a small bowl, mix together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, finely grated ginger, sesame oil and the optional red pepper flakes. This will be the sauce for the artichokes.
Step Four
After the artichokes have turned golden brown, pour this sauce mixture over them in the skillet. Stir everything together to make sure the artichokes are well coated with the sauce.
Step Five
Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pan. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer. Cook until the artichokes are tender. This might take about 15 to 20 minutes.
Step Six
If the sauce is too thin, make a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Add this mixture to the pan and allow it to simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce has thickened up.
Step Seven
Before serving, sprinkle the braised Chinese artichokes with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an added crunch and an extra burst of flavor.
