Carciofo (or carciofi, plural) is one of my most favorite Italian words to say. It sounds and feels like when you are chewing, (Car-Chiey-Oh-Foh) which is why I like it. It means artichoke. And well, in Sicily, spring is artichoke season! Artichokes pervade every market right now, and you know what that means–there are artichoke festivals throughout the island! This Saturday in Cerda, province of Palermo, they are celebrating the 34th annual Sagra del Carciofo with many folk music bands (one almost every hour), dance ensembles, and even a karate exhibition. And of course, there will be lots of dishes and condiments made with artichokes. Say it… Car-chiey-oh-fo! And like me, you’ll be there in spirit. (These artichokes were prepared by my cousin Salvo for our lunch in Bagheria on Pasquetta.)
