What Are Capers?
Capers are the unopened flower buds of the caper plant, which grows in the Mediterranean; the buds are collected and preserved in brine or salt. They are small, green, and round, with a sharp, sour-salty flavor.
The distinctive, slightly astringent, appetizing flavor they develop during brining makes them a seasoning. They are a small but impactful ingredient favored in sauces, salads, and fish dishes in Mediterranean and Aegean cuisine.
Nutritional Values of Capers
Since capers are used in very small amounts as a seasoning, their contribution to a meal’s nutritional values is limited; however, because they are brined, they are high in sodium. For this reason, the focus here is a sodium note rather than a detailed nutrition table.
How Should Capers Be Used?
Because capers are sharp and salty, use them in small amounts as a seasoning; rinse them before use to reduce some of the salt. People who need to limit their salt intake should pay attention to their sodium content.
This information is general; capers are a food and are not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Capers
Good capers are small and firm (smaller ones are more prized), with clear brine and a clean smell. Avoid products that are soft, have cloudy brine, or smell unpleasant.
- The buds should be small and firm
- The brine should be clear
- They should have a clean, fresh smell
How to Store Capers
Store capers in their own brine in the refrigerator; the buds should always remain covered with brine or they will dry out. They keep for a long time if taken out with a clean spoon and the jar is kept sealed.
Using Capers in the Kitchen
Capers are used most often in fish dishes, chicken and meat sauces, salads (especially tuna and potato salads), pasta sauces, and appetizers. Their sharp acidity balances rich foods; they are usually added at the end of cooking or used raw.
What Is the Difference Between Caper Buds and Caper Berries?
A caper is the unopened flower bud of the plant; a “caper berry” is larger and has a stem, and is picked after the bud opens and develops into fruit. Both are brined and used in similar ways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are capers rinsed?
They can be rinsed before use to reduce excess salt in the brine; this lowers the sodium and balances the flavor. Rinsing is recommended for recipes that are already very salty.
Are capers eaten raw?
Since they are brined, they can be eaten directly as a raw seasoning; they can also be added to dishes and sauces and cooked. A small amount is enough.
Are capers the same as the caper plant?
Capers are the brined buds of the caper plant; in other words, capers come from the plant. The plant is the caper plant, while the brined product is called capers.