Artichokes and Peas with Sage

Sage is perhaps unexpected here, but it goes well with both the peas and the artichokes and lends a kind of sobering note to the dish, something like a spring day that has threatened to revert to winter. Fresh basil leaves in place of the sage would completely transform this dish, giving it a summery taste and feel.

About a half hour of slow, gentle cooking is needed for this dish. Water is added in small amounts at several points; it reduces and combines with the sugars from the on