Preparation
Working with one artichoke at a time, trim the stem even with the base. Snap off the small tough leaves around base and trim the stub ends flush. Cut off the top one-third of each artichoke. Rub the cut end with lemon.
Place the artichokes cut side down on a steamer rack over boiling water. Reduce to a simmer and steam until the tines of a fork easily pierce the base of the artichoke, 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the size.