Jewish-Style Fried Artichokes

This recipe is emblematic of Roman, if not all, Italian Jewish cuisine. If I had to name my favourite artichoke dish, it would be this. Its sunflower looks, crispy leaves, tender heart and savoury-sweet taste make it unique.

As the artichokes are eaten whole, it is important to choose a variety which has little hair inside, such as the tender Cimarolo - the best of the bunch of the Romanesco or Mammole varieties, available mostly in the area around Rome in wi