| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 165 | 7.2g | 1g | 23g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 3.5g | 5g | 1.2g |
As a child, the warm embrace of my Italian grandmother’s kitchen is where I discovered the strength of family traditions, and where I developed an enduring love for cooking. Throughout my life, I’ve sought to bring this authentic sense of family and appreciation for good food directly to your table through the recipes I create. Today, allow me to introduce you to a delightful East-meets-West fusion that embodies this sentiment: Chinese Artichokes with Ginger and Scallions.
The Joy of Fusion Cooking
Now you might be asking, “Luca, how do ‘Chinese Artichokes with Ginger and Scallions’ fit into your repertoire of Italian-American favorites?” A fair question. The joy of cooking, for me, has always been the exploration, the journey to new flavors and experiences. This recipe combines the hearty Mediterranean tradition of artichokes – a staple in many an Italian kitchen – with a zesty Asian-inspired dressing, creating a dynamic and refreshing dish that my own Nonna would have savored.
A Healthy Twist on A Family Favorite
This dish isn’t just a flavorful sensation; it’s jam-packed with health benefits. Chinese artichokes are a high-fiber food that aid digestion. Additionally, they are rich in a variety of essential nutrients like vitamins C and K, as well as detoxifying elements such as liver-friendly cynarin. Add to this the antioxidant properties of ginger and immune-boosting qualities of garlic, and you have a plate that’s as nourishing as it is scrumptious. Discover more about artichokes health benefits and how ginger can be beneficial for your health.
With the savory, earthy crunch of artichokes paired beautifully with the sharpness of ginger, garlic, and scallions – all bathed in an aromatic mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, and sweet mirin wine – this dish has totally won my heart. It’s the unexpected fusion of Italian grandmotherly warmth and Far Eastern culinary tradition that make Chinese Artichokes with Ginger and Scallions stand out in any meal.
This recipe complements just about any main dish, whether you’re serving up a juicy prime rib or a delicate pan-seared salmon. A simple side of steamed jasmine rice would also work well with the robust flavors in play. Similar dishes you might experiment with include Ginger Garlic Bok Choy or a robust Roasted Brussels Sprouts.
Whether it’s around my own family table, out in nature on a hiking trail, or through the recipes I share with you, I am humbly grateful to carry these traditions forward. And I’m excited that you’re here to embark on this culinary adventure together. Enjoy!
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of Chinese artichokes
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons of fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of mirin (sweet rice wine)
- Salt to taste.
Method
Step One
Begin by thoroughly washing the Chinese artichokes under running water. Pat them dry and set them aside for later.
Step Two
Heat up a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or wok. Once the oil is hot, add the finely minced garlic and finely chopped ginger to the pan. Saute until they become aromatic, which should take about a minute.
Step Three
Add the Chinese artichokes to the skillet or wok. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the artichokes are lightly browned and tender. This process should take about 15-20 minutes.
Step Four
While the artichokes are cooking, thinly slice the scallions. Set them aside for later use.
Step Five
Once the artichokes are tender, lower the heat and add the soy sauce, sesame oil, and mirin (sweet rice wine) to the skillet or wok. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. If you like spicy food, you can also add the red pepper flakes at this stage.
Step Six
Cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the artichokes to soak up the flavors. Add salt to taste.
Step Seven
Remove the skillet or wok from the heat and sprinkle the scallions on top of the artichokes. Serve immediately while the dish is still hot. Enjoy your Chinese Artichokes with Ginger and Scallions!
