Fun fact: the artichoke is California’s state vegetable! Our friend Kyle Hagerty of Urban Farmstead is especially fond of California Grown artichokes – not just because they’re delicious, but also because he grew up on the Central Coast near Castroville, the Artichoke Capital of the World.

From Kyle:

Did you know that California’s state vegetable is also a flower? Nearly all of America’s artichokes come from California where they can be grown year round on the Central Coast. There are many ways to prepare artichokes but the simplest and most popular method is to steam them for about 30-40 minutes them dip the petals in butter or a nice aioli. Nothing compares to these unique and delicious California Grown artichokes!

Now that you know how artichokes grow, here’s a little more intel:

Kyle’s Favorite Way to Eat Artichokes:

Steamed Artichokes

California Grown artichokes are so delicious, it doesn’t take much to coax out their flavors! You’ll love this easy recipe for Steamed Artichokes from This Mess Is Ours!

More Delicious CA GROWN Artichoke Recipes:

Stuffed Artichokes

Stuffed Artichokes are a California classic! This epic artichoke recipe is hearty enough to eat like a meal, but also party-perfect when you are having guests over. Enjoy!

Artichoke Olive Oil Cake

Artichoke Olive Oil…..Cake? Yep. It’s a thing and it’s delicious. Our friend Becky Sue shared her recipe for this tender and moist Artichoke Cake. We’re obsessed.

Spinach + Artichoke Pasta Bake

Craving comfort food? Nothing beats a warm, cheesy pasta. This Spinach + Artichoke Pasta Bake is sure to be a hit with the whole family. 

Oven Baked Paella

This Oven Baked Paella from This Mess Is Ours has a California-style twist. It’s packed with healthy veggies, including CA GROWN artichokes. 

Want to Learn More About Kyle?

Check out Kyle’s Urban Farmstead Channels!

Learn how Kyle Hagerty is creating a modern day urban farmstead smack dab in the middle of Sacramento! Be sure to follow Urban Farmstead on YouTube and Insta!

Obsessed with CA GROWN Artichokes?

Meet an Artichoke Farmer!

Want to learn more about how artichokes are grown in California? Check out our blog posts on two Monterey County artichoke growers – Ocean Mist Farms and Pezzini.

The History of Artichokes: A Sordid Tale

Did you know that this delicious vegetable has an utterly scandalous origin story? The artichoke’s rise to popularity is littered with sordid tales of adultery, racketeering, and even murder. Read all about it!