To pressure cook artichokes in the Instant Pot (affiliate link) is much easier than cooking them the traditional way. They are steamed while absorbing the aromatics flavors and aroma for delicious artichokes. If you love artichokes, then make sure to also check out my Instant Pot artichoke and spinach dip, it’s my favorite!
How to Buy Artichokes
When buying artichokes always go for firm artichokes with compact layers and closed heads. The artichokes must feel fresh, heavy for their size when picked up, and never dry or slimy. Light in weight artichokes means that they’re dry. When you get home, store the artichokes in plastic bags in the fridge drawer until you’re ready to use them.
How to Prepare Artichokes
Preparing artichokes is very easy. Here’s how you do it:
How to Cook Artichokes in the Instant Pot
To the Instant Pot, add water and aromatics (I like to use lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs).Add a trivet to the Instant Pot, or a steamer basket if you have it. And add the artichokes to sit on the trivet or in the steamer basket.Cover with the lid, seal the valve, and pressure cook on high for 15 minutes (for medium artichokes). When the cooking ends, quickly release the steam.
When the artichokes are done, a knife will easily go in and the petals can be easily removed.Remove the artichokes from the Instant Pot, and allow to cool slightly.To eat the artichoke, just remove the petals and enjoy the meaty parts. When the petals are removed, remove the fluffy choke by scraping it off with a spoon, and you will get to the artichoke heart; it’s a meaty tender center that’s really delicious.
Artichoke Dipping Sauces
My favorite dipping sauce for artichokes is very simple, it’s just a lemony butter sauce that you can make in a couple of minutes! Melt some butter, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix it well, and serve with the artichokes. You can also do garlic butter, lemony mayo, or spicy mayo to serve as a dipping sauce.
How Long to Pressure Cook Artichokes
I found that medium (3-inch) sized artichokes turn out great when pressure cooked for 15 minutes. Smaller globes (2-inches) only take 10-12 minutes, but super-large ones (4 or 5-inches) take somewhere between 18 and 20 minutes. You know an artichoke is done when it can be easily pierced with a knife, and the petals/leaves can be easily removed. © Little Sunny Kitchen
