Stuffed Artichokes with Chinese Flavors

Ingredients

In this adaptation of Carciofi ritti, the traditional Italian dish, we infuse Chinese flavors into the recipe. The original Italian dish typically uses ingredients such as breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese for the stuffing. However, in this Chinese-inspired version, we replace these ingredients with ground pork, water chestnuts, ginger, garlic, and soy sauce to create a unique fusion of flavors. We alse have the original recipe for Carciofi ritti, so you can check it out.

• 4 large artichokes 4 large artichokes
• 250g ground pork (8.8 oz) 250g ground pork (8.8 oz)
• 1/2 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped (120g) 1/2 cup water chestnuts, finely chopped (120g)
• 2 tablespoons ginger, minced 2 tablespoons ginger, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 15g, 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Prepare the artichokes by removing the tough outer leaves and trimming the stems.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, water chestnuts, ginger, garlic, soy sauce, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. 3.
   Gently spread the artichoke leaves apart and stuff the mixture into the center of each artichoke.
4. 4.
   Place the stuffed artichokes in a steamer basket and steam for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until the artichokes are tender and the stuffing is cooked through.
5. 5.
   Serve the Stuffed Artichokes with Chinese Flavors hot, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped green onions, 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.
• Ground pork — Opt for lean ground pork to reduce the fat content of the dish.
• Water chestnuts — If fresh water chestnuts are not available, canned water chestnuts can be used as a substitute. Drain and rinse them before chopping.

Tips & Tricks

• To enhance the Chinese flavors, you can add a dash of Chinese five-spice powder to the stuffing mixture.
• Serve the Stuffed Artichokes with Chinese Flavors as an appetizer or as a main course accompanied by steamed rice or noodles.
• For a spicier kick, add a few drops of chili oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes over the stuffed artichokes before serving.
• Experiment with different fillings by incorporating ingredients like mushrooms, bamboo shoots, or water chestnuts for added texture and flavor.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground pork with crumbled tofu or cooked quinoa.

Serving advice

Serve the Stuffed Artichokes with Chinese Flavors hot, allowing each person to enjoy their own artichoke. Provide small dipping bowls with soy sauce or a soy-based dipping sauce for added flavor.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Stuffed Artichokes with Chinese Flavors on a platter, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped green onions. The vibrant green color of the artichokes and the contrasting stuffing will make for an appealing presentation.