For me, the artichoke has always conjured up the idea of Italy. Much to the dismay of the Lega Nord, almost all artichokes grown in Italy (around 40% of the world’s production) are cultivated in the south, especially in the regions of Puglia, Sicily and Sardegna. One of my favorite train rides on the boot is the one between Foggia and Bari during artichoke season through tens of thousands of acres of carciofi pugliesi. During the winter and spring, these seasonal vegetables are served in innumerable dishes. At the end of the season, the surplus is preserved under local extra virgin olive oil to allow them to be consumed throughout the year. On a side note, f— you, Bossi.
Categories: Culture, Daily Food Photo, Gastronomic Traditions, Puglia
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What an absolutely beautiful picture. It looks as if the artichoke is reaching out to the sun and sky…which, when you think about it, it is!
OK…I have to ask…what’s with that last comment???
February 18th, 2010 at 3:50 pmI was telling Bossi, the head of the Lega Nord, where to go. The Lega Nord is a group of nutters that believe northern Italy is superior to the South, which they portray as a cancer on the economy of the Italian State. They are complete idiots and racists. I just intended this post to show the assets of the south. Sadly, I don’t think Bossi reads Parla Food.
February 18th, 2010 at 4:01 pmAh, I see. That old feud. Thanks.
February 18th, 2010 at 8:35 pmWell, maybe Bossi should get an email with a link to this site…hmmmm?
Great photo and I feel the same way about Bossi.
February 20th, 2010 at 4:50 pmI love artichokes, I must admit that I prefer carciofi siciliani! I really like the side note ; )
February 20th, 2010 at 6:13 pmThe (only) reason that I visit Italy in springtime is to eat artichokes at EVERY meal. Gorgeous photo!
February 21st, 2010 at 4:13 am