Artichokes, known for their unique taste and texture, can be a challenge to substitute, but there are several alternatives that can offer similar qualities or provide an interesting twist to your dishes.
Best: Hearts of Palm
Hearts of palm are an excellent substitute for artichokes, particularly in terms of texture. They have a similar tender yet firm consistency, with a mild, slightly nutty flavour that can closely mimic the characteristics of artichokes in many recipes.
How to Use
Use hearts of palm in the same way as artichokes. They can be sliced and added to salads, dips, or used as a topping for pizzas. When cooked, they can be incorporated into dishes like pasta or risotto.
Cheapest: Canned Artichokes
While not a substitute in the traditional sense, canned artichokes can serve as a more affordable and accessible alternative to fresh artichokes. They offer the convenience of being pre-prepared and have a flavour and texture that is similar, though softer than fresh artichokes.
How to Use
Use canned artichokes in recipes where the firmness of fresh artichokes is not critical. They work well in dips, salads, and as an ingredient in pasta dishes.
Tastiest: Braised Fennel
Braised fennel, with its sweet, anise-like flavour, can be a delicious substitute for artichokes. When cooked, fennel becomes tender and its flavour profile becomes more subdued and somewhat reminiscent of the unique taste of artichokes.
How to Use
Braise fennel by slowly cooking it in a flavourful liquid until it’s tender. Use it as a side dish or incorporate it into pastas, risottos, or salads where you might use artichokes.
Most Accessible: Zucchini
Zucchini is a widely available vegetable that can substitute for artichokes in terms of texture. While the flavour is milder and less complex, zucchini can absorb other flavours well, making it a versatile alternative in various dishes.
How to Use
Use zucchini in slices or chunks in dishes like pasta, salads, or casseroles. It can be grilled, roasted, or sautéed, adapting well to recipes that would typically include artichokes.
Most Unusual: Jerusalem Artichokes (Sunchokes)
Jerusalem artichokes, also known as sunchokes, offer an unusual but fitting substitute for globe artichokes. They are not related to artichokes but have a similar nutty, sweet flavour and can be used in a variety of ways.
How to Use
Jerusalem artichokes can be roasted, boiled, or mashed. They work well in soups and stews, or can be sliced and added to salads for a crunchy texture. Their flavour is quite distinctive, so they’re best used in recipes where their unique taste can be appreciated.