Montevideo-style Artichokes with Ham

Ingredients

In this Montevideo adaptation, the traditional Spanish dish of Alcachofas con jamón is given a unique twist by incorporating local ingredients and flavors. The Montevideo-style Artichokes with Ham recipe infuses the dish with the culinary traditions of Uruguay's capital city, resulting in a fusion of Spanish and Montevidean flavors that is both exciting and delicious. We alse have the original recipe for Alcachofas con jamón, so you can check it out.

• 4 large artichokes 4 large artichokes
• 200g (7oz) ham, diced 200g (7oz) ham, diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Prepare the artichokes by removing the tough outer leaves and trimming the stems.
2. 2.
   Cut the artichokes in half and remove the fuzzy choke.
3. 3.
   In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the artichokes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
4. 4.
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
5. 5.
   Add the diced ham and cook until lightly browned.
6. 6.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened.
7. 7.
   Stir in the parsley, dried oregano, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. 8.
   Add the cooked artichokes to the skillet and toss gently to coat them with the ham and onion mixture.
9. 9.
   Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
10. 10.
    Serve the Montevideo-style Artichokes with Ham hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Artichokes — When selecting artichokes, choose ones that are firm and have tightly closed leaves. To prevent discoloration, rub the cut surfaces with lemon juice.
• Ham — Opt for a high-quality ham with a good balance of fat and meat. If desired, you can substitute the ham with cooked bacon or pancetta for a different flavor profile.

Tips & Tricks

• To add a touch of acidity, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish before serving.
• For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the artichokes and ham just before serving.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet while sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Serve the Montevideo-style Artichokes with Ham as a tapas dish or as a side dish alongside grilled meats or seafood.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Montevideo-style Artichokes with Ham as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad and crusty bread. Alternatively, it can be served as a tapas dish alongside other small plates for a delightful sharing experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the artichokes and ham on a platter, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve with a side of lemon wedges for guests to squeeze over the dish as desired.