Learn how to cook artichokes in the microwave for one of the simplest and best cooking methods for artichokes! When you have a microwave, you can cook an artichoke without a steamer!
Trim any excess stem from the artichoke. If the artichoke's outer leaves have tiny thorns, trim them with scissors. Rinse the artichoke, and place in a bowl large and deep enough for the vegetable. Add about 3/4 cup of water to the bowl and cover the bowl with a silicone microwave cover or plastic wrap.
Cook for 5 minutes on high. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the artichoke and the power of your microwave, so check for doneness by gently tugging on the outer leaves. If the leaves release easily and the flesh attached is tender, it is done. If it needs more time, return the artichoke to the microwave and continue cooking in 2-minute increments. *Be careful handling the hot, steamed artichokes.
When the artichoke is cooked, allow it to cool slightly. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
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Notes
*Note: As with any cooking method, be careful when handling hot, steamed artichokes.
Do I need to trim/prep the artichoke?
It depends! I like to cut off the end of the stem before cooking. Check the leaves of the artichoke; if you find the tips have sharp spikes, trim the tips with kitchen scissors. If you find that the spikes are very minimal, then there is no need to trim the artichoke.
How do I know the artichoke is finished steaming and fully cooked?
Gently tugging on the outer leaves. If the leaves release easily and the flesh attached is tender, it is done.