ARTICHOKES!!!!

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
ARTICHOKES!!!!
1
Thu, 09-07-2006 - 7:46pm

I was the BLESSED recipient of an ENTIRE CASE of fresh artichokes today!

hunk 'o, hunk 'o burnin' heartburn!

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
In reply to: cl_k_roni
Sat, 09-09-2006 - 3:16pm
  • Most of today’s artichokes come from the coastal areas of California, where they hold the title of "The Official Vegetable of Monterey County."


  • In 1948, a young Norma Jean (Marilyn Monroe) was crowned Castroville's first "Artichoke Queen"


  • Monterey County, California produces 80 percent of the nation's artichokes


  • The town of Castroville is known as "The Artichoke Capital of the World"


  • Monterey's peak artichoke season is spring; artichokes are available nationally March — May and beyond


  • Nearly four million artichokes are harvested annually from the region


  • Golden Globe is the primary variety grown in Monterey


  • Baby artichokes are simply lower growth flowers on the primary stalks


  • Artichokes have a rich and varied history, originally hailing from the Mediterranean


  • Artichokes are said to be aphrodisiacs


  • A sure-fire winner for the inept home chef or camping menu, artichokes can be prepared a variety of ways including steaming boiling, broiling, sautéing, microwaving and grilling


  • Artichokes are flower buds, best stored in a plastic bag with a sprinkling of moisture in the refrigerator


  • In full growth, an artichoke plant can spread nine feet in diameter and stand five feet tall; one plant can produce up to 20+ artichokes annually


  • Americans are divided on the artichoke's favorite sidekick: Eastern states prefer butter while Western regions opt for mayonnaise or aioli


  • Artichokes are one of the oldest foods known to man. Zeus was said to turn a scorned lover into an artichoke


  • As a vegetarian entrée, side dish, appetizer or colorful garnish, the artichoke is a well-rounded menu item


  • Artichokes are a significant source of vitamin C, folic acid and magnesium. Virtually fat-free, the artichoke weighs in at 25 calories (12 oz.) and is low in sodium


  • Monterey County boasts more than 300 restaurants featuring artichokes in a variety of performances, from sautéed to fried.

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    hunk 'o, hunk 'o burnin' heartburn!