Artichoke

Violetti have small heads with fierce prickles and pointed buds. They are in season in December and January, and are eaten when young, either raw or braised whole in olive oil and water.

Romani are the large round artichokes most commonly found in Britain. They’re good for Carciofi alla Romana.

Morellin is another type of artichoke with a small round head, usually sold by the stem with the leaves on. It is delicious raw or sliced for Carciofi Trifolati, or blanched whole and used in salads.