Opies
Oppies Capers in Brine
What it is
These are the unopened flower buds of the caper bush, preserved in a salty brine. They are small, round, and typically green. The brining process gives them a distinctive tangy, slightly peppery flavor and a firm texture. They are a common ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, adding a bright, piquant note to dishes. The brine itself can also be used in dressings or marinades.
How people cook with it
Capers are a versatile ingredient that can be used to enhance a wide variety of savory dishes. Their intense flavor makes them a great addition to sauces, salads, and appetizers.
- Add to pasta sauces
- Sprinkle on pizza
- Mix into tuna salad
- Garnish roasted meats
Before using, it is often recommended to rinse the capers under cold water to remove excess salt from the brine. This step helps to temper their intensity, allowing their unique flavor to complement rather than overpower other ingredients. They can be added directly to dishes towards the end of cooking or stirred into cold preparations like salads and dips. For a more subtle flavor, they can be finely chopped. The brine can be reserved for other culinary uses.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to other brined ingredients like olives, capers offer a more pungent and floral flavor profile. They are also significantly smaller and have a firmer, less yielding texture. Their taste is less about saltiness and more about a sharp, zesty tang that cuts through richness.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use capers to add a sophisticated flavor dimension to their cooking.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store any remaining capers in their brine in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator. Ensure the capers remain submerged in the brine to maintain their quality and flavor. They will typically keep well for several weeks when stored properly.