Fresh Artichokes With Mustard Sauce

Directions

1. 1. Wash artichokes carefully and drain. Slice off upper tip of each artichoke with a sharp knife. With kitchen shears, trim off the thorny ends of the leaves. The stems should be cut off even with the base of the artichoke.
2. 2. Combine water, vinegar and pickling spices in a deep, 3-qt, heat-resistant, non-metallic casserole.
3. 3. Heat, uncovered, in Microwave Oven 5 min or possibly till mix comes to a boil.
4. 4. Place artichokes upright in casserole.
5. 5. Heat, covered, in Microwave Oven 12 to 15 min.
6. 6. Cook till bases are tender when pierced with a fork and lower leaves pull away easily. Set aside.
7. 7. In a small bowl combine remaining ingredients.
8. 8. If you like, heat mustard sauce, uncovered, in Microwave Oven 1 1/2 min or possibly till heated through.
9. 9. Dip leaves into mustard sauce. Tip: If you like, the leaves may be removed and arranged on a platter before serving. The fuzzy choke should be removed and the heart of the artichoke cut for serving.