Baby Artichokes

6 baby artichokes
2 Tbs lemon juice
1/2 cup water
1/2 lb ground lamb
1 tsp grapeseed oil (or olive oil)
1/2 medium onion, diced
1 tsp coriander seeds
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1/8 tsp ground cardamon
3 Tbs toasted pine nuts
Salt and pepper to taste

Cut artichokes in half and trim outer leaves. Take out the choke (the fuzz) and smallest leaves from the center of each one. In a microwave dish, add water and lemon juice. Set artichokes in the dish, cut side down, cover in plastic wrap. Microwave for 7-10 minutes on high. Keep the dish in the microwave until you need the artichokes.

In a medium saucepan, add onion and oil. Saute until onions are translucent. Add herbs, spices and pine nuts. Cook until coriander seeds start popping. Add ground lamb and cook until lamb is done.

Lamb Stuffed Baby Artichokes

Take artichokes out of the microwave and line in an oven proof dish, cut side up. Carefully fill each artichoke with the ground lamb mixture. Put in a 350*F pre-heated oven for 10-15 minutes until lamb and artichokes get a little crispy.

Serve with Tzatziki Sauce or Cucumber Aioli.