The queen of France and renowned patroness of 16th century art and literature, Catherine de Medici, included many artichokes in her diet. Paris street vendors of her time would cry, “Artichokes! Artichokes! Heats the body and the spirit!” Garlic included in this dish, is another incendiary food and is universally celebrated as an aphrodisiac. As the herbalist Culpepper wrote, “Its heat is vehement.”
Hot Artichoke Spread Recipe
- 1 14 ounce can artichoke hearts, drained and finely chopped
- 1 cup of light mayonnaise
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce
- 3 large garlic cloves, finely minced
- Curry powder
- Fresh Basil, minced
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Combine all the ingredients, except the basil and curry in a shallow, lightly greased baking dish.
Sprinkle with curry powder to taste.
Bake for 30 to 45 minutes.
Garnish with minced basil and serve with crackers, chips or sliced French bread.