Fennel Braised with Artichokes

Elegance is not usually a key attribute of vegetables. We speak of them as healthy, colorful, and flavorful, but their ability to transport a plate toward unabashed sophistication is rare. (I know there are truffles, but who in his right mind is going to slow-cook a truffle?) This dish has that power, thanks to its seductive marriage of two Mediterranean vegetables. The preparation is no more complicated than an average sauté, but the flavors and textures may cause swooning; consider yourse