Baby Green Artichokes
Estimated Inventory, lb : 0
Description/Taste
Baby Green artichokes are roughly two inches in diameter when harvested. Their tender firm leaves form a compact floret with pistachio and lime green tones throughout. Baby Green artichokes are nearly chokeless, though they will still contain needle-like thorns on the tips of the artichoke's outer leaves. A raw Baby Green artichoke is crisp, slightly bitter, tannic and nutty. When cooked, Baby Green artichokes develop flavors of toasted nuts, dry grass, and caramel. Although not as meaty as a globe, they still provide a substantial, meaty consistency when cooked. Of all the baby varieties, the green provides the most "heart", which is considered the most edible and delicious part of the plant.
Seasons/Availability
Baby artichokes are available year-round with a peak season in the spring.
Current Facts
Baby Green artichokes, botanical name Cyrnara scolymus, are the young flower heads of a herbaceous perennial thistle plant and a member of the Aster, Asteraceae family, also known as the Compositae family. More than one-hundred-forty artichoke varieties exist, but less than forty are commercially grown. Baby Green artichokes are the smaller artichokes growing on the same plant as larger artichokes. Most commonly they are found growing on globe artichoke and desert globe artichoke plants. They grow in the inner shaded part of the plant.
