AIOLI FOR ARTICHOKE RECIPES

Steps:

• In a large kettle, combine 3 cups water with olive oil, lemon slices, bay leaves, garlic, salt and pepper and bring to a boil Meanwhile, trim stalks from bases of artichokes, cut a 1" slice from tops.
• Remove descolored leaves, snip off the spiky ends.
• Wash the artichokes in cold water and drain.
• Place artichokes in bottom of kettle, standing on base.
• Bring back to boiling, reduce heat and simmer, covered 40-50 minutes, or until artichoke bases feel soft.
• While the artichokes are cooking, Soak bread in milk for 10 minutes; squeeze hard to remove all milk.
• Place bread and garlic in food processor; blend 10 seconds or until mixture forms a paste Add egg yolks, blend until egg mixture is thick, about 10 seconds.
• Add olive oil, 1` Tbs at a time, blending constantly after each addition until thick.
• Continue until all oil has been used.
• Mixture should be thick.
• Add lemon juice, salt and pepper; blend a few seconds more to mix well.
• Refrigerate, tightly covered.
• Drain artichokes well.
• Let cool slightly.
• Using finger, pull out leaves at center.
• With teaspoon, remove hair choke from cavity.
• Serve artichokes, warm or cold with Aioli Sauce in cavity in center.

Steps:

• Cut off the top inch of leaves from the artichokes. Remove the outer layer of small, tough leaves from the stem end. Snip all remaining spiky tips from the outer leaves. Cut off and discard the stems.
• Bring 2 inches of water to a boil in a large pot fitted with a steamer basket. Add the artichokes. Cover and steam until tender, adding more hot water as necessary, 30 to 35 minutes.
• Whisk mayonnaise, herbs, lemon juice, mustard, garlic, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Serve with the artichokes.