Capers

Description

Capers are hand-picked before they bloom and then preserved in salt, brine, or vinegar to retain their flavor. They have a crunchy texture and an intense, salty, and slightly tangy taste, with aromatic and acidic notes that make them a valuable ingredient in cooking.

The preservation process is essential for developing the characteristic flavor of capers. When stored in salt or brine, they undergo natural fermentation that enhances their unique taste. Before use, salt-packed capers should be thoroughly rinsed to remove excess salt, while brined capers can be used directly or rinsed briefly for a milder flavor.

In cooking, capers are used in a wide variety of dishes. They are particularly valued in Mediterranean cuisine, where they are used to season fish, meats, salads, and pasta. A classic example is pasta alla puttanesca, where capers, combined with olives and anchovies, add a bold, rich flavor. Capers are also essential for making sauces like tartar sauce or salsa verde and are excellent as a topping for carpaccio, meat or fish tartare, and bruschetta.