Using a sharp knife, cut the stems off flush with the bottom of the artichoke. Pull off any small leaves from the bottom. Lay the artichoke on its side. Slice off 1 inch from the top of the artichoke (don't worry, that part isn't edible). This way most of the pointy tips will be removed. Be careful, they are sharp. Using scissors, snip off any of the remaining artichoke points.
Wrap each artichoke in plastic wrap, tucking the ends under the artichoke. For 1 artichoke, microwave 4 minutes. For 2, 7 minutes. 3 — 10 minutes, 4 — 12 minutes.
Rotate and let stand, wrapped, for 5 more minutes.
Alas, how love can trifle with itself!
-- William Shakespeare, "The Two Gentlemen of Verona"
This page was last modified on 2011 December 20.