Trim the artichokes: Cut the bottoms off the artichokes so they sit flat.
Cut the very tops off the artichokes (I cut about a half inch off)
Add the artichokes to the slow cooker. If you have a hard time getting the artichokes to fit, peel off a few of the leaves and that should allow them all to fit nicely.
Sprinkle over with salt and pepper, then add the garlic.
Squeeze over the lemon juice.
Cut the butter into slices and place on top of the artichokes.
Add the water to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Cover and cook on HIGH for 3.5 -4 hours or LOW for 8-9 hours without opening the lid during the cooking time.
Serve with melted butter (or mayonnaise if that's your thing).
Video
Notes
How to eat an artichoke?
Peel a petal off from the base, they should easily pull off. Dip the bottom portion of the petal in any desired dipping sauce or melted butter. Strip the meat off of the petal through clenched teeth and discard the leaf.
After the leaves are fully removed, you'll be at the heart. Use a spoon to scoop out the choke, or the fuzzy part and discard it.
Slice or dice the heart and enjoy it with your dipping sauce. We love mayonnaise, melted butter, chipotle aioli, or even garlic butter for dipping sauces for artichokes.
If there's some stem left, the very center portion is also edible, so remove the outer portion and dice the very center to enjoy.