What is Artichoke?
{{taxobox | name = Artichoke | image = Artichoke Cynara cardunculus Head 2000px.jpg | regnum = [[Plantae]] | unranked_divisio = [[Angiosperms]] | unranked_classis = [[Eudicots]] | unranked_ordo = [[Asterids]] | ordo = [[Asterales]] | familia = [[Asteraceae]] | subfamilia = [[Carduoideae]] | tribus = [[Cynareae]] | genus = ''[[Cynara]]'' | species = '''''C. scolymus''''' | binomial = ''Cynara scolymus'' | binomial_authority = [[Carl Linnaeus|L.]] }} The '''artichoke''' or '''globe artichoke''' (''Cynara scolymus'') is a [[perennial]] [[plant]] of the Asteraceae family. They first came from [[Southern Europe]] around the [[Mediterranean Sea|Mediterranean]] and have been cultivated for food for over 2,000 years. The thick scales and bottom parts of the young flower heads can be eaten. They are a culinary delicacy. The bottom part of the young flower head is called a heart.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Stradley|first=Linda|last2=Brenda|date=2015-05-10|title=Artichokes History|url=https://whatscookingamerica.net/history/artichokehistory.htm|access-date=2023-05-20|website=What's Cooking America|language=en-US}}</ref> The artichoke plant has a tall, spiky stalk with large, spiky leaves and a large flower head. The edible portion of the artichoke is the flower bud, which is picked before it has a chance to fully bloom. They are often served boiled or grilled, and the leaves can be pulled off and the soft, fleshy part at the base of the leaf can be eaten. The heart of the artichoke, which is the center of the flower bud, is considered the most desirable part and is often stuffed or served with a dip. Artichokes are a good source of fiber, [[Vitamin C|vitamins C]] and K, and minerals such as [[magnesium]] and [[potassium]]. They also contain antioxidants and have been shown to have potential health benefits such as improving digestion and liver function and reducing cholesterol levels. Artichokes can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, both savory and sweet. They are a popular [[ingredient]] in [[Appetizer|appetizers]], salads,