Culinary Connivances

“This bitter, green fruit soaked in brine is palatable, but I wish to make the flavor more divine by stuffing in some oily fish.” “That thistle up there on the hill, though spiny-sharp and armor-tough, might prove to be delectable, if it were just boiled enough.” Who first made such discoveries? Were they intended to be jokes – the olives stuffed with anchovies and boiled hearts of artichokes? Though I think they are delicious, their origins seem pernicious.