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Braised Artichokes with Tomatoes and Mint

This Mediterranean-inspired dish of braised artichokes with tomatoes and mint offers a sophisticated way to enjoy seasonal produce. By gently simmering the artichokes in a fragrant bath of San Marzano tomatoes, white wine and a punchy mint and garlic pesto, the vegetable becomes buttery and infused with deep, savoury flavours. It is a wonderful example of slow, thoughtful cooking that yields a truly elegant result.

While preparing fresh artichokes can seem intimidating, the process of trimming and rubbing them with lemon is a rewarding kitchen ritual. This vibrant dish works beautifully as a standout vegetarian starter or a light main course when served with crusty sourdough bread to mop up the rich tomato sauce. It is naturally wholesome, packed with fibre and perfectly suited for a relaxed weekend lunch.

Continue reading below

Ingredients for Braised Artichokes with Tomatoes and Mint

  • 1 (800g) can whole peeled tomatoes, preferably Italian San Marzano, drained

  • 350ml dry white wine

  • 1/2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more

  • 240ml olive oil, divided

  • 12 salt-packed anchovy fillets, rinsed, patted dry

  • 8 garlic cloves

  • 1 cup (lightly packed) mint leaves

  • 6 medium artichokes

  • 2 lemons, halved

How to make Braised Artichokes with Tomatoes and Mint

Place tomatoes in a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot, crushing with your hands; add wine, red pepper flakes, 2 teaspoons salt, 120ml oil, and 475ml water; set aside.

Pulse anchovies and garlic in a food processor until finely chopped. Add mint and pulse until coarsely chopped. With the motor running, stream in remaining 120ml oil; process until a coarse paste forms. Set pesto aside.

Remove several layers of dark-green outer leaves from artichokes (keep going until you get to the tender light-green leaves). Using a serrated knife, cut off top 1" of artichokes and trim stem ends. Rub cut ends with lemon halves to prevent browning. Working with 1 artichoke at a time, use a paring knife or vegetable peeler to remove tough outer green layer from base and stem to reveal pale-green underneath; rub all over with lemon. Halve through stem and rub cut sides with more lemon. Use a spoon to scoop out choke, then pull out spiky inner leaves; rub insides with lemon. Rub reserved pesto all over artichoke halves and place artichokes in a single layer inside reserved pot, submerging in tomato mixture.

Bring to a simmer over medium-low and cook, turning artichokes occasionally, until hearts are fork-tender, 55–65 minutes. Transfer artichokes to a platter and tent with foil to keep warm.

Increase heat to medium, bring sauce to a boil, and cook until slightly thickened, 10–15 minutes. Taste and season with more salt if needed. Spoon over artichokes.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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