12 fresh artichokes, small (baby) or medium sized
1 lemon
1 garlic clove
1-3 sprig of fresh mint
1 red or green chile (optional)
100 ml. Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper

Peel the lemon keeping the rind in one piece. Prepare a large bowl with water and the juice of the lemon. Peel the artichokes leaving the hearts clean with the inner tender leaves. Place the artichoke hearts in the bowl with the sprig of mint and leave them soaking for 20 min.  (When peeling the artichokes place them immediately in the water with lemon. It will prevent the peeled artichokes to turn brown)  Rinse several times and dry the water out using a salad spinner. Arrange the artichokes at the bottom of your pan with the tails upwards. Add salt and pepper and add the garlic clove, lemon rind, mint, and chile (if used) among the vegetables. Add olive oil and the same amount of water (until the artichokes are covered half size by the liquids). Cover with the lid and simmer gently for 20 minutes. Serve this dish dressing the plate with the cooking juice. It is scrumptious!

.