Imagine: the gentle Mediterranean sun, the aroma of fresh herbs, and the succulent green of artichokes, tenderly stewed with young broad beans. This isn't just a dish; it's a slice of Greek springtime you can create in your own kitchen. "Anginares me koukia" – as this magic is called in Greek – is a symphony of flavors and textures, where each ingredient plays its unique role. Ready to embark on a culinary journey through sunny Greece? Then let's begin!
What you need:
- 1 kg artichokes (about 6-8 pieces)
- 1 kg fresh or frozen broad beans (shelled is fine)
- 1 cup olive oil (about 200 ml)
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 bunch fresh dill or fennel, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Juice of 1 lemon
How to cook:
- Preparation:
- Clean the artichokes: remove the tough outer leaves, trim the top, and cut the stem, leaving about 2-3 cm. Remove the "choke" (fibrous core) from the inside.
- Shell the broad beans if using fresh ones. If using frozen, simply thaw them.
- Sautéing:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot.
- Add the chopped scallions and garlic, sauté until softened (about 2-3 minutes).
- Stewing:
- Add the cleaned artichokes and broad beans to the pot.
- Pour in 2 cups of water, add the chopped dill or fennel, and salt to taste.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, until the artichokes and beans are tender.
- Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix the flour with the lemon juice until smooth.
- Add a little broth from the pot to the flour mixture to thin it out.
- Pour this mixture into the pot with the artichokes and broad beans.
- Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat.
- Serving:
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips:
- If you don't have fresh broad beans, you can use frozen or canned.
- You can use fennel instead of dill, which adds a unique flavor.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to your taste.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little water or broth.
- This dish is perfect for vegetarians and those observing Lent.
Enjoy your meal!