Steamed artichokes provide a unique eating ritual. No other vegetable comes close to the interaction you get here. That’s why I thought this recipe would be a fantastic part of our Aphrodisiac theme. Ancient Greeks and Romans considered artichokes a delicacy and an aphrodisiac. I envision this dish shared by 2 people romantically connected. Choose which sauce works for your lover—or serve both—sultry & buttery or creamy & spicy. The idea: dip and feed each other individual leaves.
MAKES 2
PREPARE THE ARTICHOKES
2 large artichokes
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Peel off the leaves near the stem. Cut off the thorns at the top of each leaf with scissors (2 rows). Chop an inch off the top. Wash artichoke thoroughly, get in between the leaves to remove any hidden dirt. Trim the stem.
COOK THE ARTICHOKES
prepared artichokes
bay leaf
juice from 1 lemon
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Set up a pot for steaming, toss in bay leaf. Position artichokes, squeeze lemon juice over them. Bring to a boil, lower heat and cover. Steam for 45 min, flipping the artichoke at 20 min. The artichoke is done when leaves pull off easily. While artichokes steam, make the sauce.
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recipe
Herbed Butter Dipping Sauce
Serve this sauce to the person who likes rich things.
MAKES ABOUT 3/4 CUP
MAKE THE SAUCE
5 TB butter
1/2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp thyme
pinch of cayenne
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Add ingredients to a small bowl. Melt butter in the microwave (start with 11 seconds). When butter is mostly melted, stir to finish. Serve immediately.
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recipe
Spicy Mayo Dipping Sauce
Serve this sauce to the person who likes things spicy.
MAKES ABOUT 3/4 CUP
MAKE THE DIP
1/2 CUP mayonnaise
1 TB dijon mustard
2 tsp sriracha
juice from 1/2 lime
1 tsp curry powder
1 tsp sugar
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Mix everything together in a bowl.
Get in the mood with more recipes for romance in 12 Aphrodisiacs
