Artichokes

Technically a flower, artichokes are served as vegetables. They are related to thistles.

I like to eat artichokes steamed. I take the petals and dip them in mayonnaise, but some people use lemon butter.

Artichokes are good for dieters, because they are low in fat and high in fiber. That is, until you dip them in butter or mayonnaise. They are also high in antioxidants.

Preapring artichokes is easier than you think. Cut the stem close to the top. Cut about 1/4 inch off the top of the artichoke. Using kitchen scissors, trim the spiky part of the leaves. Then place in a steamer for about 45 minutes, or until a sharp knife easily pierces the bottom.

To eat an artichoke, you take off the petals, dip them in your dip, then bite the fleshy bottom bit and scrape with your teeth. The closer to the heart you get, the more flesh on the petals. Don't eat the choke! That's the hairy bit in the middle. Use a fork or spoon to scrape it out, then eat the yummy heart.

Besides being a eaten as a vegetable, artichokes can be used in tea, liquor, and medicinal purposes.

The California Artichoke Advisory Board has a Kids Corner with a crossword puzzle.

My Favorite Teas

The flavor of tea depends greatly on which leaf was picked, how the leaves were grown and handled. Green tea is steamed. Black tea is fermented. Oolong tea is in between. White tea is allowed to whither.

I like to add sugar to all my teas.

And now for my top three favorite teas, in order:

1. Golden Dragon Oolong: We buy it at Peet's Coffee & Tea
    I like it best because of the flavor and because it's pricey.

2. Earl Grey: Found nearly anywhere tea is sold.
    I like the Bergamot flavor in this tea.

3. English Breakfast: Found nearly anywere tea is sold. Sometimes called "British Breakfast." Similar to "Awake" in Taoz-brand teas.
    I like to add milk to this tea. Remember! Add milk before you pour the tea. It tastes totally different.

Tea is a good drink on cold days and in the afternoon. If you can have a biscuit (cookie) with it, that's even better.