The artichoke from Benicarló: its origins, how it’s cooked and the signature dishes of Castellón

Benicarló, which holds Protected Designation of Origin status, is a vegetable with remarkable depth of flavour. It is one of the defining ingredients of local cuisine, and has been preserved over generations through tradition and the dedication of the area’s farmers. Visit Benicarló, in Castellón, and you will find it prepared in countless different ways!

What is the Protected Designation of Origin artichoke from Benicarló like?

The artichoke from Benicarló is easy to recognise thanks to its slightly flattened shape and the small dimple at its centre. Its texture and flavour are outstanding, which is precisely why this town in El Baix Maestrat honours its most emblematic produce each year with the Fiesta de la Alcachofa.

The festival takes place in January, right in the middle of the Benicarló artichoke season. The programme features a huge open-air torrà, a series of culinary events and cookery demonstrations, all with the artichoke firmly centre stage. Local restaurants are the driving force behind the celebrations, drawing on their experience and flair to create dishes that showcase this vegetable in imaginative and toothsome ways.

Artichoke from Benicarló: recipes

Cooking with the artichoke from Benicarló could hardly be simpler. Grilled over hot coals or roasted in the oven, they are irresistible with nothing more than a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt.

Another good option is to remove the tougher outer leaves, cut them into wedges and sauté them lightly. From there, they can turn into a superb tortilla with tender garlic shoots, or a satisfying scramble with baby squid.

Traditional paella takes very kindly to the artichoke from Benicarló when it is in season; you only need to add it to your usual recipe. This vegetable also lends itself to delicious rice dishes combined with seafood or cured meats, where it brings balance and depth.

For those who enjoy spending more time at the hob, try gently confiting the artichoke hearts and then making them the star of a dish with broad beans and a firm fish such as monkfish. They are equally good served with slices of jamón!

Let your imagination run with it, because with an ingredient this exquisite it is difficult to go wrong. Come to Benicarló and taste its artichoke with Protected Designation of Origin status for yourself!