Here’s a tasty recipe from the Castroville Artichoke Festival, an annual May event on the Central Coast of California. Fried artichokes are a favorite treat sold at local shops and stands in Castroville.
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup fish batter mix
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup beer
2 lbs. baby artichokes, prepared and quartered
1 cup Italian bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
All-vegetable shortening (not oil)
METHOD:
Heat shortening, about 1 inch deep, to 350°F.
In a mixing bowl, combine the batter mix, baking powder, water, and beer.
Dip artichokes in the batter mix, then roll in bread crumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
Fry artichokes in small batches for 2 or 3 minutes or until light golden brown. Keep artichokes warm oven (200°F) until all artichokes are cooked.
Serve as is or with a dipping sauce of your choice.
