How Do You Steam Artichokes In A Microwave?
Steamed artichokes are a tasty treat, but take about 45 minutes to prepare on the stove top. The microwave can do a comparable job of cooking these delicious green globes. Almost all commercially grown artichokes in the United States come from California, and the California Artichoke Advisory Board says about 80 percent of those come from Castroville. Some people question if an artichoke is a vegetable or a fruit. The U.S. Department of Agriculture classifies artichokes as vegetables. Their peak season is March through May. Shop for artichokes, and look for the ones where the leaves are plump and tightly packed. Try bending back a few of the leaves. If the artichoke is at the peak of perfection, the leaves won’t break off. Instead, they’ll easily snap back into place. It’s okay to see a tiny amount of brown discoloration on the tips and at the stem, but avoid artichokes with a great deal of brown coloring. If you plan to steam them in the microwave together, plan on cooking only two at
