Artichokes with shrimps or prawns and Serrano or Iberian ham make always a delicious combination. This stir-fry is a quick recipe that serves both as a distinguished starter and as a tasty tapa, ideally accompanied by a glass of good white wine.
Ingredients for 2 people:
200 gr of artichoke hearts
A dozen peeled prawns
4 slices of Iberian or Serrano ham
Extra virgin olive oil and salt
Optionally:
1 glass of white wine
1 chilli
1 onion
1 garlic clove
When using fresh artichokes, discard the hard outer leaves, cut the prickly top and remove with a teaspoon the “hairs” that cover the heart. Immerse them immediately in lemon water (or alternatively brush them with lemon juice, this is to prevent them from oxidizing).
If using frozen artichoke hearts, boil them over low heat until tender.
In case using already cooked and canned hearts, go directly to the next step.
Cut the hearts in halves or quarters, depending on their size, and fry them in extra virgin olive oil in a pan. If they are fresh, cook for at least 15 minutes, or until they are tender.
Add the chilli if desired, the ham cubes (or sliced slices) and the prawns. Cook over moderately high heat for a few minutes until the prawns are done (it’s easy to notice it because they will take on their characteristic orange color).
If desired, deglaze with a glass of wine and cook over high heat briefly, so that the alcohol evaporates.
Serve with a little chopped parsley on top.
Tips and tricks:
1. Just as when cutting apples or quinces, it’s important to have the lemon juice on hand to prevent the artichokes from oxidizing and taking on a dark color. If this were to happen, they would actually still be perfectly edible, but just less attractive to the eye.
2. It’s also advisable to wear gloves when cutting artichokes, as they can stain your hands dark.
3. If desired, add an onion and/or garlic to the stir-fry.
4. It is also possible to accompany this dish with aioli.
5. For those who do not eat shellfish, it’s simply enough to sauté the artichokes with some Iberian or Serrano ham. The combinations is also very tasty.
6. Another excellent combination, and also vegetarian, results from replacing the prawns with mushrooms.