Anginares Yemistes (Stuffed Artichokes)
Grrrrrgh!
Course : Greek
From: HungryMonster.com
Serves: 6-8
 

Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
12-15     large         tender artichokes
3         Tablespoons   butter
2         pound         chopped meat 
2         medium        onions, minced 
1         Tablespoons   tomato paste diluted w/ 1 1/2 c. of water
                        salt & pepper to taste
1/2       cup           grated kefalotiri cheese
1                       recipe Bechamel sauce 
2                       zweiback, crushed or bread crumbs as needed
                        melted butter as needed.
1 - 2                   lemons, as needed
 

Preparation:

Cut the stems from the artichokes so they can stand up. Peel off any bruised outer leaves ; cut the tips off the remaining leaves. Scoop out each 'choke leaving a small whole in the center. Rub the cut portions with lemon. Boil the artichokes in salted water until tender but not too soft (about 35-40 minutes). Drain well and place on a platter. To make the stuffing, melt the butter in a pot; add the meat and the onions . Stir to break up meat ; brown well.Add the tomato paste and salt and pepper. Simmer until all the juices are absorbed (about 30 minutes). Fill the artichokes and place in a buttered pan, and pour the bechamel sauce over them (allowing about 1 tbls. of sauce for each filled 'choke). Sprinkle with the cheese and the breadcrumbs. Brush with melted butter ; bake for 15-20 minutes in a 350 degree oven.