Cut stem: Make it flush with the bottom, so the artichoke sits upright. (Mel Melcon / LAT)
How to trim an artichoke
Remove leaves: Pull off the outer leaves around the base. (Mel Melcon / LAT)
Trim base: With a knife, pare the bottom to remove the fibrous parts. (Mel Melcon / LAT)
Snip leaves: Using kitchen shears, cut the barb off each leaf. (Mel Melcon / LAT)
Slice top: Cut the tips off the top of the head, using a large knife. (Mel Melcon / LAT)
