Fill a pan with enough water to cover the bottom. Bring to boil over high heat. Now lower the heat.
Trim the artichoke stems and spiky outer leaves. Tuck in butter and slices of garlic into the artichoke leaves. Sprinkle required quantity of pepper and salt on the artichokes.
Place a steamer insert in the pan and arrange the artichokes with the stem side downwards.
Cover the pan with a lid and allow the artichokes to steam for 20 minutes until tender.
Now you can pluck off an artichoke petal and scrape the flavored meat with your teeth. Once the petals are finished, you can eat the best part, the artichoke heart.
Serve the cooked artichokes with melted butter for dipping.
Note: Adding a slice of lemon and a bay leaf to the boiling water, adds a wonderful flavor to the artichokes.(optional)