Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smoky Grilled Artichokes with Zesty Remoulade?
It is a dish featuring tender, smoky artichokes grilled to perfection and served with a creamy, tangy remoulade sauce, inspired by Houston's restaurant.
How many artichokes do I need for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 large artichokes.
How should the artichokes be prepared before cooking?
Trim the tops of the leaves and the stem ends, cut each in half lengthwise, and remove the fuzzy choke.
How do I prevent the artichokes from browning while prepping?
Squeeze lemon juice over them immediately after cutting or submerge them in a bowl of lemon water.
Do I need to boil the artichokes before grilling?
Yes, boil them in a large pot for approximately 15 minutes or until tender before placing them on the grill.
What is the recommended grill temperature?
Preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high.
What are the ingredients for the garlic-infused basting mixture?
The basting mixture consists of lemon juice, 3/4 cup olive oil, chopped garlic, salt, and black pepper.
How long do the artichokes need to be grilled?
Grill them for 5 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally.
What should the artichokes look like when finished grilling?
They should have a nice char and the tips should be slightly crisp.
What is the base for the zesty remoulade?
The base for the remoulade sauce is 2 cups of mayonnaise.
What ingredients provide the 'zest' in the remoulade?
The zest comes from green sweet relish, capers, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
Is anchovy paste necessary for the remoulade?
Anchovy paste is optional but can be added for extra depth of flavor.
How should the remoulade be prepared?
Mix mayonnaise, relish, garlic, capers, anchovy paste (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and pepper.
Does the remoulade need to be chilled?
Yes, it is best to refrigerate the remoulade for several hours before serving to let the flavors meld together.
At what temperature should the artichokes be served?
The grilled artichokes should be served warm.
How much olive oil is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 3/4 cup of olive oil for basting.
How many garlic cloves are required in total?
The recipe uses 4 garlic cloves: 3 chopped for the basting mix and 2 minced for the remoulade (as noted in preparation notes).
What kind of relish is used for the sauce?
Green sweet relish is used for the remoulade.
How much Dijon mustard is in the remoulade?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard.
How much salt and pepper should be used?
The recipe specifies 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper for seasoning.
What is the purpose of the 'fuzzy choke' removal?
The fuzzy choke is inedible and must be carefully removed during preparation to make the artichoke halves ready for consumption.
How much Worcestershire sauce is added to the remoulade?
Add 1/2 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
Can I use bottled lemon juice for the remoulade?
The recipe suggests 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best flavor.
Should the capers be drained?
Yes, the 2 teaspoons of capers should be drained before being added to the sauce.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
It is characterized by smoky, garlic-infused flavors with a bright, acidic lemon finish.
Can this be served as a side dish?
Yes, it is ideal as either a light appetizer or a side dish for gatherings.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
It is tagged as a vegetarian dish, though ensure you omit the optional anchovy paste if strictly vegetarian.
How many steps are in the instruction list?
There are 9 primary instructions ranging from preparation to serving.
What makes this a 'Houston's' style recipe?
It captures the specific flavor nuances and grilling style made famous by Houston's restaurant.
How do I place the artichokes on the grill initially?
Place them cut-side down on the hot grill after brushing with the garlic basting mixture.