Artichokes have a special bitter, lingering taste, with a sweetness reminiscent of licorice, making it perfect to pair with the salty flavour of ham. Delicious artichokes practically call out to be filled with ham. Whether roasted, pickled or fried, ham provides that necessary salty touch. To enhance the sweet flavours, a well-cured ham does the trick.
The map shows two Spanish territories more inclined to grow artichokes; one in the Valecian Mediterranean and another on the banks of the Ebro river in the region of Navarra. Artichokes from Benicarló have the esteemed certification of PDO (protected designation of origin), whereas artichokes from Tudela have been certified as PGI (protected geographical indicator). The artichokes from Benicarló will always be marketed fresh, while those from Tudela, in the great tradition of preserving and canning in Navarra, will store their whole or halved artichoke hearts in glass containers.
Tudela and Benicarló