03 Jun Confit Artichokes: the Heart of Madrid

An essential ingredient in traditional Spanish food

Olmeda Confit Artichokes: Origin and Process

The confit artichokes of Olmeda Origenes originate from the prestigious, vast fields of Navarra and Murcia. Olmeda artichokes are a modern twist on traditional culinary practices, providing a quick and simple way to incorporate the heart of Madrid into any dish.

Each artichoke is carefully selected from only the best harvests of the bountiful fields of Navarra and Murcia. Olmeda values the meticulous craft in which these farmers handle the precious artichokes, upholding sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices to deliver fresh and high-quality ingredients to people across the world.

After selection, the artichokes are put through the confit process, designed to highlight and preserve the richness of Navarra and Murcia artichokes. The process begins with slow cooking the artichokes in an olive pomace oil. After, the artichokes are packed under high pressure to ensure excellent preservation of freshness, flavor, and natural texture.

Spanish Artichoke History

Spain’s deep, sandy, fertile, and well drained soils provide ample fields of opportunity to grow artichokes nationwide. Artichokes have long held a special place in Spanish cuisine. With over 221,000 tons produced annually, Spain is a leading contributor to Europe’s artichoke supply, accounting for 25% of the continent’s total output.

While Navarra and Murcia are the primary growing regions, the love for this versatile vegetable extends throughout the country—especially in Madrid, where artichokes grace menus in both traditional and contemporary dishes. In Madrid’s iconic Retiro Park stands the Fuente de la Alcachofa (Fountain of the Artichoke), a tribute to the vegetable’s cultural and culinary importance. This symbolic fountain highlights how deeply rooted the artichoke is in Spanish life and identity.

Recipes

What better way to connect with the heart of madrid than cooking with the heart of an artichoke (Olmeda confit artichokes). Celebrate Madrid through this elegant, easy-to-make risotto featuring Olmeda Orígenes confit artichokes.

Artichoke Risotto

Ingredients:

• 1 large shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Olmeda Origenes Olive Oil
• 1 liter vegetable or chicken stock
• 300g arborio rice
• 125 ml dry white wine
• 45g grated parmesan cheese
• 30g unsalted butter
• Olmeda Origenes Confit Artichokes
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Fresh lemon juice

Preparation:

1. In a small saucepan, heat the stock and keep it at a gentle simmer. Meanwhile, halve the artichokes. In a skillet, lightly roast half the artichokes in olive oil until golden and crisp. Set aside and season with a pinch of salt.
2. In a separate pan, heat more olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the shallot and garlic until soft and translucent. Add the arborio rice and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the white wine and let it reduce completely. Begin adding the warm stock, one ladle at a time, allowing it to absorb before adding the next. Stir continuously to build creaminess.
4. When the rice is al dente and the mixture is rich and velvety, stir in the butter and Parmesan. Gently fold in the remaining artichokes.
5. Finish with fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt to taste. Top with the crispy artichokes and serve immediately.

Artichoke and Burrata

Ingredients:

• Burrata
• Olmeda Origenes confit artichokes
• Olmeda Origenes paprika
• Olmeda Origenes olive oil
• Sundried tomatos

Preparation:

1. Open up the artichoke flower and place on grill until lightly crisped.
2. While artichoke is being grilled, spread burratta all over on a separate plate as a base for the artichokes.
3. Once artichoke is grilled to your liking, place artichoke on top of the burratta.
4. Next, in a separate bowl mix together paprika and olive oil for a drizzle on top.
5. Lastly, add as many sundried tomatos to your liking and drizzle the paprika and olive oil mixture over the entire dish.
6. Enjoy!

Olmeda Origenes confit artichokes celebrate the best of Spain´s agricultural and gastronomic tradition. Discover the versatility of Olmeda confit artichokes, and its ability to elevate any flavor on the menu. Whether you’re preparing a gourmet risotto or a rustic tapa, these premium artichokes elevate any dish with their delicate texture and earthy taste.

Let the heart of Spain inspire your next meal—with Olmeda, tradition meets innovation on every plate.