Braised Stuffed Artichoke A la Barigoule

Preparation

1. Step 1

   Use scissors to remove the thorny ends of the artichoke leaves. Use a knife to remove the stem so the artichokes will sit flat. In a heavy pot, combine the onion, carrot and garlic with 4 tablespoons of the olive oil over low heat and cook until the onion is tender and gold, about 10 minutes. Add the white wine and simmer 2 minutes. Add the artichokes, cover, and cook about 1 hour, until tender. Remove the artichokes from the pot and set aside; reserve the broth.

2. Step 2

   Put the mashed potatoes in a mixing bowl. Mince the basil, and in another bowl combine it well with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Whisk 3 tablespoons of the basil mixture into the potatoes, add salt and pepper and set aside. Use a spoon to remove the thistly choke from the center of each artichoke. Spoon the potato mixture into the center of each and set aside.

3. Step 3

   Return the broth in the pot to the stove over medium heat. Add the asparagus and simmer 10 minutes. Add the tomato and olives and simmer 2 minutes. Put the artichokes back in the pot and cook until completely warm, about 5 minutes. Put each artichoke in the center of a shallow bowl. Whisk the remaining basil paste into the broth, gently ladle it around the artichokes, and serve.