Grocery
Capers in Brine
What it is
Capers in brine are the unopened flower buds of the caper bush, a perennial woody shrub native to the Mediterranean region. These small, green spheres are preserved in a salty brine, which enhances their pungent flavor and firm texture. They are a common ingredient in many cuisines, adding a distinctive briny and slightly floral note to dishes. The brining process also helps to mellow the capers' natural bitterness, making them more palatable and versatile for cooking.
How people cook with it
Capers are a versatile ingredient that can be used to add a burst of flavor to a wide range of savory dishes.
- Garnish for seafood
- Flavoring for pasta sauces
- Addition to salads
- Ingredient in dips
Before using, it is often recommended to rinse capers under cold water to remove excess saltiness from the brine. This step helps to prevent dishes from becoming too salty. They can be added directly to sauces, stews, or dressings towards the end of cooking to preserve their texture and flavor. For a more intense flavor, some cooks lightly chop them. They are also excellent as a direct garnish, sprinkled over finished dishes to provide a bright, piquant accent. Their small size makes them easy to distribute evenly.
How it differs from similar foods
Capers in brine differ from salt-cured capers primarily in their preservation method. Brining uses a liquid solution, typically vinegar and salt, resulting in a more consistent moisture content and a slightly less intense, more rounded salty flavor compared to the very concentrated, dry saltiness of salt-cured varieties. The texture also tends to be firmer when brined.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use capers to elevate their culinary creations.
How to keep the rest
Once opened, store the remaining capers in their brine in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure the capers remain submerged in the brine to maintain their quality and prevent them from drying out. Properly stored, they can last for several weeks.