What Exactly is a Caper?

What are Capers?

Capers are the unopened flower buds of the Capparis spinosa plant, which belongs to the Capparaceae family. These plants are native to the Mediterranean region, where they have been used for centuries in cooking. The small caper buds are harvested by hand and then preserved using a pickling process that enhances their distinct flavor.

Taste and Texture: Capers boast a strong, tangy flavor that adds a zesty punch to dishes. They have been described as both salty and lemony, making them an excellent addition to savory recipes. The texture of capers is somewhat firm and slightly crunchy, adding a pleasant bite to any dish in which they are used.

Culinary Uses: Capers are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of dishes. They add depth and complexity to sauces, dressings, marinades, and spreads. In Mediterranean cuisine, they are often paired with fish or seafood due to their ability to cut through richness and provide a burst of flavor. Capers also work well with roasted vegetables, pasta dishes, salads, and even as a garnish for various meats.

Capers in Popular Dishes: Capers are a key ingredient in many beloved recipes from around the world. They are an essential component of classic dishes like Chicken Piccata, Puttanesca sauce, and Niçoise salad. The distinctive flavor of capers can also be found in Mediterranean-style pasta sauces, tapenades, and even pizza toppings.

Storage and Selection: When selecting capers, you'll find them typically available in jars or cans. Look for capers that are firm and dark green in color. Avoid capers that are soft or have a dull appearance, as this may indicate spoilage. Once opened, capers should be stored in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness.

5 Types of Capers

While capers are commonly known, many people may not be aware of some different types available.

1. Nonpareil Capers: Nonpareil capers are the most prized and widely available type. These are the smallest capers and possess a delicate texture and a vibrant flavor that is tangy, slightly salty, and slightly sweet. Nonpareil capers are often enjoyed in sauces, dressings, pasta dishes, and as a garnish on fish or meat.

2. Surfines Capers: Surfines capers are slightly larger than nonpareil capers but still maintain their tender texture. They offer a similar flavor profile to nonpareils but with a slightly more intense taste. Surfines capers are perfect for enhancing salads, pasta dishes, pizzas, and even cocktails.

3. Capucines Capers: Capucines capers are larger than both nonpareils and surfines but retain their distinct flavor. With a more pronounced tanginess and a slightly firmer texture, these capers offer a delightful crunch when bitten into. Capucines capers can be used in various recipes such as antipasti platters, Mediterranean-style sauces, or even baked into bread for added texture.

4. Capotes Capers: Capotes capers are the largest among the different types of capers. They have a robust flavor that is less tangy compared to their smaller counterparts. Due to their size, they tend to be milder and less briny. Capotes capers are often used in heartier dishes like stews, braises, or roasted vegetables, where their size and flavor can hold up well.

5. Salted Capers: Salted capers are a special type of caper that undergoes a traditional preservation method. These capers are packed in salt to preserve their flavor and texture. Salted capers tend to have a more intense and complex taste compared to their brine-packed counterparts. Before using salted capers, it is important to rinse them thoroughly to reduce the saltiness.