Sweet and Sour Artichokes Recipe

Ingredients

Serve 4-6

• 8 very young fresh artichokes

• 1/2 lemon

• 2 1/2 tbsp all­purpose/plain flour

• 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

• 2 1/2 tbsp finely chopped onion

• 1 tbsp capers

• 12 green olives, pitted and finely chopped

• 1 small carrot, cut into small cubes

• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped

• scant 1/2 cup/100 ml hot water

• salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• 4 tomatoes

• 4 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 2 1/2 tsp sugar

Method:

1. Remove the outer leaves of the artichokes and the top third of the leaves. Remove the choke and peel the remaining stalk. Rub all over with the lemon to prevent discoloring.

2. Cut each artichoke lengthwise into six pieces. Roll the artichokes in the flour.

3. Sauté the artichokes in the oil in a flameproof casserole over high heat for 3 minutes.

4. Remove the artichokes, letting the excess oil drain back into the casserole, and set aside.

5. Add the onion, capers, olives, carrot, celery, and hot water. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.

6. Add the tomatoes and artichokes. Cover and simmer over low heat for 25 minutes.

7. Mix the vinegar and sugar and stir into the vegetables. Cook for 5 minutes more. Serve warm or at room temperature.