Artichoke Risotto

4 tender globe artichokes (see method) 2 pints (1.2 litres) chicken stock 1 small onion 12 oz (350 g) risotto rice (e.g. arborio) 21h.floz (70 ml) dry vermouth or dry white wine 2oz (60g) unsalted butter 1 tbsp olive oil 1-2oz (30-60g) grated Parmesan cheese clove garlic, peeled and grated (optional) salt and pepper Bring [...]