Alcachofas con Jamon

"Alcachofas con Jamon" or Artichokes with Serrano Ham is from La Rioja region in Northern Spain. (La Rioja is known internationally for their excellent wines.) The cooked artichokes are covered in a sauce made from onion, carrot and ham, sauteed in white wine. It is a good side dish to serve with meat or fish. In fact, we've been known to make extra sauce just to spoon over a roast or a grilled steak!

The Spanish and Italians love artichokes and prepare them many differents ways. Spain is one of the largest growers and exporters of artichokes worldwide. Spanish artichokes are a small, compact variety called "Blanca de Tudela", while California grows lots of artichokes of a larger variety called "Green Globe." Even if fresh artichokes are not available in markets where you live, try using frozen artichokes as a substitute.

• Alcachofas con Jamon - Artichokes with Serrano Ham
• Vinos de La Rioja - Wines from La Rioja

Alcachofas con Jamon - Artichokes with Serrano Ham (c) 2007 L. Sierra Licensed to About.com