Grocery
Capers in Brine
What it is
These are the unopened flower buds of a prickly shrub native to the Mediterranean region. They are typically preserved in a salty brine, which gives them their distinctive tangy and briny flavor. Capers are small, round, and green, varying in size from tiny peppercorn-like buds to larger ones. Their intense flavor makes them a potent ingredient in many dishes.
How people cook with it
Capers add a burst of piquant flavor to a variety of savory preparations. They are often used as a condiment or a finishing touch.
- Garnish for seafood
- Flavoring for pasta sauces
- Added to salad dressings
- Mixed into tapenades
Before using, capers are usually rinsed under cold water to remove some of the excess saltiness. They can then be added directly to dishes or chopped finely. Their sharp, salty taste works well in warm sauces, cold salads, and as a topping for grilled or pan-seared meats and fish. They are a key component in many classic Mediterranean recipes, providing a bright counterpoint to richer ingredients.
How it differs from similar foods
Capers differ from other brined items like olives in their floral bud origin and their sharper, more pungent flavor profile. Unlike herbs, their saltiness is a primary characteristic, and they offer a distinct acidic tang that is less common in other small pickled items.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use capers to enhance the flavor complexity of their culinary creations.
How to keep the rest
After opening, store any remaining capers in their brine in a sealed container in the refrigerator. Ensure the capers remain submerged in the brine to maintain their quality and flavor. They can be stored this way for several weeks.