Capers Buying Guide: What You Need to Know
What are Capers?
Capers are the small, green, unopened flower buds of a Mediterranean shrub called Capparis spinosa. These piquant little buds are often used in Mediterranean and French cuisine to add a sharp, salty, and slightly tangy flavor to dishes.
Why Use Capers?
Not only do capers add a unique and delicious flavor to dishes, they also provide a number of health benefits. Capers are high in antioxidants and contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. They are also a good source of fiber, vitamins A and K, and minerals such as iron, calcium, and magnesium.
How to Choose Capers
When shopping for capers, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, capers are sold in a few different forms: whole, in brine, or packed in salt. Whole capers are the most flavorful, but they can be difficult to find and may be more expensive. Capers packed in brine are the most common and are often the most affordable.
When choosing capers, it's important to look for ones that are plump and have a bright green color. Avoid capers that are shriveled or discolored, as these may be old and have lost their flavor.
How to Use Capers
Capers are most commonly used in dishes that have a Mediterranean or French flavor, such as chicken piccata, tapenade, or tuna salad. They can also be used in sauces, vinaigrettes, or as a garnish for a variety of dishes.
To use capers, simply rinse them under cold water to remove any excess salt. If using whole capers, you can leave them as is. If using capers packed in brine, you can soak them in cold water for a few minutes to remove some of the brine. You can also chop or crush capers to release their flavor and make them easier to incorporate into a dish.
Conclusion
Capers are a delicious and versatile ingredient that can add flavor and depth to a variety of dishes. When choosing capers, look for ones that are plump and have a bright green color, and be sure to rinse them well before using. With their unique flavor and health benefits, capers are a great addition to any culinary repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What do capers taste like?
Capers have an intense salty and acidic taste, similar to green olives but with lemony undertones. They have a robust flavor and are best enjoyed when combined with other ingredients to balance their taste.
2. Do capers taste like pickles?
Capers have a salty and tangy flavor similar to pickles. However, their briny taste adds an extra dimension to dishes like egg salad. Along with fresh herbs and lemon juice, capers contribute a briny and bright flavor.
3. Are capers good for your health?
Capers are considered a good source of antioxidants like quercetin and rutin. These compounds have been studied for their ability to reduce inflammation, aid in wound healing, and promote healthy blood sugar levels.
4. Why do people eat capers?
Capers are commonly used to enhance the flavor of dishes. They are often served with spreads, garnish bagels, cream cheese and lox, and used in tapenade, sauces, dressings, and compound butters. Fried capers can also be used as a crispy garnish.
5. Are capers a superfood?
Capers are considered nutritious and are sometimes referred to as superfoods. They are low in cholesterol and a good source of protein, fiber, calcium, iron, and various vitamins. However, it is important to consume pickled capers in moderation due to their high sodium content.
6. Can you eat capers straight from the jar?
Capers can be eaten straight from the jar. However, many recipes recommend rinsing the capers to reduce their salt or vinegar content and allow the true flavor of the caper to come through. Larger capers may need to be chopped before use.
Editor's Notes
During our caper research, we found 24 caper products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 50,457 customer reviews through our big data system to write the capers list. We found that most customers choose capers with an average price of $19.37.
The capers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of capers, including Sanniti, Roland Foods, FRATELLI D'AMICO, 365 by Whole Foods Market, Jeff's Naturals. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 14,644 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.
Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!
