Crispy Baby Artichokes With Anchovy Aioli Recipe

Ingredients

• For the Artichokes
• 6 cups water
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 5 pounds baby artichokes
• For the Anchovy Aioli
• 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
• 1½ teaspoon capers, finely chopped
• 2 anchovy filets, minced  
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 egg yolk
• 1 cup canola oil
• 1 tablespoon water
• 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• For the Frying
• 5 cups canola oil
• 3 tablespoons roughly chopped dill
• Sea salt, to taste

Directions

1. Prepare the artichokes: In a large bowl, combine the water and the lemon juice. Trim ¼ inch off the stem and ¼ inch off the top of each artichoke. Snap off any tough outer leaves to reveal the inner pale yellow leaves. Using a vegetable peeler, peel away the tough outer layer of the stem. Halve the artichokes lengthwise and place in the lemon water. Repeat with the remaining artichokes.
2. Make the anchovy aioli: In a small bowl, using a large whisk, beat the mustard, capers, anchovies, garlic and egg yolk. While whisking, gradually add the oil, drip by drip, until the mixture is well emulsified. Whisk in the water and lemon juice and set aside. Note: The aioli can be made the day before; cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature before serving.
3. Cook the artichokes: Drain the artichokes in a colander in the sink. Line a baking sheet with paper towels and set aside. In a 4-quart saucepan, heat the canola oil to 350° over medium-high heat. Working in two batches, fry the artichokes until the leaves are golden brown and the heart is tender, about 5 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer artichokes to the paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain. In a large bowl with the dill and salt, toss the hot artichokes and transfer to a serving bowl. Serve the anchovy aioli on the side.