If you want to add some extra flavor to a savory dish, artichoke hearts are an excellent option. This vegetable is known for its distinctive taste, which is nutty, grassy, and somewhat bitter.
If you are following a recipe that requires artichoke hearts but you don’t have any in your fridge, don’t panic. There are some sensational substitutes that you can use instead of this green vegetable, including asparagus.
Artichoke Hearts: What Are They?
An artichoke heart is a type of vegetable that originates from the artichoke plant, which is a type of thistle. Though artichokes are often braised, steamed, or fried, they can also be eaten raw.
Raw artichoke hearts are a popular addition to salads. Meanwhile, cooked artichokes may be consumed as a pizza topping or in the form of stuffed artichokes.
As mentioned, the taste of an artichoke heart is nutty and bitter with herbal undertones. Thanks to their nutty taste, artichokes have been compared to hazelnuts. However, others have compared these vegetables to Brussels sprouts due to their texture and similar taste.
Artichoke hearts are low in calories but rich in antioxidants and fiber, making them an extremely healthy option.
Artichoke Hearts Substitutes: The 8 Best Ideas
1. Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are perhaps the closest approximation to artichoke hearts. Brussels sprouts are a rather controversial vegetable, as you either love the taste or hate it. If you appreciate the flavor of artichoke hearts, then you will likely adore Brussels sprouts.
The reason why Brussels sprouts are quite contentious is that they can taste quite bitter. However, the flavor of this vegetable has also been described as nutty and earthy.
As a result, Brussels sprouts have a close taste to artichoke hearts. Moreover, they share a similar texture.
This 1 to 1 replacement works particularly well when sauteed. They will also be an amazing replacement for artichokes in meat-based dishes.
2. Broccoli
If you are looking for a versatile vegetable, broccoli is a good option. This widely-liked vegetable can be used in an assortment of different dishes and can be cooked in various ways.
Broccoli has a much softer texture than artichokes. However, if you want a crunchier texture, you can focus on using the stems of this green vegetable. The florets of the broccoli are much more tender and so will not make an effective substitute for artichoke hearts.
Regardless of which part of the broccoli you are using, it tends to taste quite mild. Therefore, if you love the nutty taste of artichokes, this may not be the best option for you.
Despite being milder than artichokes, broccoli still has a similar taste thanks to its slightly bitter flavor.
3. Asparagus
Asparagus is a popular green vegetable that is a great alternative to artichoke hearts. These vegetables have a sharp and unique flavor that is equal parts grassy, bitter, sweet, and earthy. It is also a superb source of vitamins E and C.
Though asparagus has a slightly sharper taste than artichoke hearts, their flavors are nonetheless comparable.
Asparagus is a versatile option that can be used in lots of different dishes, including soups, salads, pasta dishes, omelets, and stir-fries. It can also be prepared in a variety of ways.
Due to its popularity, asparagus is easy to obtain from a grocery store. As a result, an asparagus is a great option because it tastes similar to artichoke hearts but is much more accessible.
4. Bamboo Shoots
Up next, bamboo shoots can also be a brilliant substitute for artichokes if correctly prepared. They are one of the best options for achieving a similar texture to artichokes, though bamboo shoots can be slightly crunchier.
With a refreshingly sweet and earthy flavor, bamboo shoots are an excellent addition to a range of dishes. Originating from bamboo plants, this vegetable works wonderfully in stir-fries and soups.
They are slightly sweeter than artichokes and so will be a great option for people who appreciate the sweet side of artichokes.
Containing plenty of protein and fiber, bamboo shoots are also highly nutritious.
5. Kohlrabi
Kohlrabi is also known as a German turnip. This vegetable is often underused and is not as well-known as other options on this list. But if you are willing to try something a little different, kohlrabi can be used instead of an artichoke heart.
This vegetable is packed with vitamin C, making it a great option for boosting the nutritional value of a dish. With a sweet and peppery taste, kohlrabi is incredibly reminiscent of both broccoli and artichoke hearts.
Kohlrabi is best suited as a replacement for artichokes in dishes like salads, sauces, and stews. It is especially delicious when grilled.
6. Chayote
Next, chayote squash is delicious when used in salsa. This squash is technically a fruit but is prepared just like a vegetable. Chayote is rich in vitamin C, making it a good option for people who are attempting to maintain a healthy diet.
With a slightly crunchy texture, chayote can be used as a replacement for artichoke hearts without having a massive impact on the texture of the dish.
In terms of taste, chayote is a little milder than artichoke. Though this may disappoint people that adore the sharp taste of artichoke hearts, this makes chayote suitable for fussy eaters.
7. Cardone
Cardone is also known as cardoon. This food comes from a plant known as the artichoke thistle, which highlights the close relationship between cardoon and artichokes. This plant can be prepared in ways that are similar to artichoke hearts, making it a super substitute.
Cardoon is extraordinary when used as a pizza topping or added to gratin. Its flavor is remarkably close to an artichoke heart, though cardoon tends to have a slightly more tender texture.
It’s recommended that you use a cardoon if you adore the bitter taste of artichoke hearts.
8. Jerusalem Artichoke
Lastly, Jerusalem artichokes can also be a valid replacement. This root vegetable comes from a species of sunflower that is found in North America. These Jerusalem artichokes have a crunchy texture, especially when consumed raw.
With a nutty and slightly sweet taste, the Jerusalem has often been compared to a chestnut. It is this nutty taste that makes Jerusalem artichokes a good replacement for artichoke hearts.
Just bear in mind that they have quite different appearances, as heart artichokes are green in color while this root vegetable tends to be browner.
When using a Jerusalem artichoke, feel free to use the same quantity as you would an artichoke heart.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Tastes Similar To Artichokes?
What Can You Do With A Jar Of Artichoke Hearts?
Final Thoughts
Artichoke hearts are an amazing addition to your salad or pizza if you are searching for a healthy yet flavorsome ingredient. There are plenty of other foods that you can use as a substitute for artichokes, which have similar textures and flavors.
This includes commonly-found vegetables, such as broccoli and asparagus, which are widely sold in grocery stores!
Artichoke Hearts Substitutes: The 8 Best Ideas
Course: Substitutes4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
Brussels Sprouts
Broccoli
Asparagus
Bamboo Shoots
Kohlrabi
Chayote
Cardone
Jerusalem Artichoke
Directions
- Decide on what substitute you need
- Pick a substitute from the list above
- Read what you need to substitute with
- Create the recipe and enjoy
Recipe Video
https://youtu.be/3BZR_rUHPukVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: ARTICHOKE 101 | how to cook and eat artichokes (https://youtu.be/3BZR_rUHPuk)
Here at ButterandSaltGatherings, I want to offer a wide range of ingredients, flavors, meals and recipes so that you can start living each day to the fullest, and enjoy only the best food.
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