101RECIPES: Beer-Braised Artichokes with Coffee and Honey

Beer-braised artichokes with coffee and honey is a special recipe that combines unusual ingredients to create a unique and intriguing flavor. The sweetness of honey blends with the bitterness of coffee and the robustness of beer, giving the artichokes a surprising and irresistible character. This delicious dish is perfect to serve as an appetizer or as a side dish in a special meal.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 fresh artichokes
• 200 ml beer (preferably a blond or amber beer)
• 1 tablespoon ground coffee
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Preparation

Start by preparing the artichokes. Remove the tougher outer leaves until you reach the tender and closed leaves at the center. Cut off the top of the artichoke, removing the leaf tips. Then, using a sharp knife, remove the stem so that the artichoke can stand upright. Use a spoon to scoop out the inner part, being careful not to damage the outer leaves. Soak the artichokes in a bowl of water with lemon juice to prevent them from turning brown.

Prepare a pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the artichokes and let them cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the outer leaves become tender. Once cooked, drain them and let them cool slightly. Meanwhile, prepare the marinade. In a bowl, mix together the beer, ground coffee, honey, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Make sure the coffee has completely dissolved in the marinade.

Take the cooled artichokes and gently separate the outer leaves with your hands to create spaces where the marinade can penetrate. Place the artichokes in a baking dish. Pour the marinade over the artichokes, making sure it seeps well between the leaves. You can also brush some marinade onto the top of the artichokes using a kitchen brush. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let the artichokes marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight. During this time, the artichokes will absorb the flavors of the marinade.

After the marinating time, remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and remove the aluminum foil. Bake the artichokes in the center of a preheated oven (180°C/350°F) for about 25-30 minutes, or until they become soft and slightly golden on the surface.

Once cooked, remove the beer-braised artichokes with coffee and honey from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy the artichokes warm or at room temperature. They are delicious on their own as an appetizer or can be served as a side dish to accompany meat or fish-based main courses.

Enjoy this special and surprising recipe that combines unique flavors and creates an unforgettable culinary experience. Beer-braised artichokes with coffee and honey are an innovative dish that will surely delight your guests’ palates and add a touch of creativity to your menu.