What Are Capers?
Capers are the unopened flower buds of the caper bush, picked and preserved in brine or salt. They come as small, green, round pieces with a sour-salty, sharp flavor.
The distinctive, slightly tart, appetite-stimulating flavor gained during brining makes them a condiment ingredient. They are a small but effective component beloved in Mediterranean and Aegean sauces, salads, and fish dishes.
Nutritional Values of Capers
Since capers are used in very small amounts as a condiment, their contribution to a meal's nutritional value is limited; however, being a brined product, they are high in sodium. Therefore, a note of caution about sodium takes precedence here over a detailed nutrition table.
How Should Capers Be Used?
Since capers are sharp and salty, they are used in small amounts as a condiment; they can be rinsed before use to reduce some of their saltiness. Those who need to limit their salt intake are advised to watch their sodium.
This information is general; capers are a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How Are Capers Chosen?
Good capers have small, firm buds (smaller ones are more prized), clear brine, and a clean smell. Softened capers, cloudy brine, or bad-smelling products should be avoided.
- Buds should be small and firm
- Brine should be clear
- Should smell clean and fresh
How Are Capers Stored?
Capers are stored in their own brine in the fridge; the buds should always stay covered by the brine, otherwise they dry out. Using a clean spoon and keeping the jar sealed makes them last a long time.
Using Capers in the Kitchen
Capers are used most in fish dishes, chicken-meat sauces, salads (especially with tuna or potatoes), pasta sauces, and meze. Their sharp-sour flavor balances rich dishes; they are usually added at the end of cooking or used raw.
What Is the Difference Between Capers and Caper Berries?
Capers are the unopened flower bud of the plant; "caper berry" is the larger, stemmed form picked after the bud opens into a berry. Both are brined and used similarly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are capers rinsed?
They can be rinsed before use to reduce the excess salt from the brine; this lowers sodium and balances the flavor. Rinsing is recommended for very salty recipes.
Are capers eaten raw?
Since they are brined, they can be eaten directly (raw) as a condiment; they can also be cooked into dishes and sauces. Using them in small amounts is sufficient.
Are capers the same as the caper bush?
Capers are the brined bud of the caper bush; that is, capers are obtained from the caper bush. The plant itself is the caper bush, and the brined product is the caper.