Goya · 15 g
Goya 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 green, with a distinct tangy and slightly floral flavor. The brining process intensifies their sharp taste and firm texture. They are a common ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, adding a burst of flavor to many dishes.
How people cook with it
Capers are a versatile ingredient that can be used whole or chopped to add a zesty punch to a variety of recipes.
- Sprinkled over pasta dishes
- Added to seafood preparations
- Mixed into salad dressings
- Garnishing pizzas
Before using, it is often recommended to rinse capers under cold water to remove excess salt from the brine. This step helps to moderate their intense flavor and prevent dishes from becoming too salty. They can be added directly to hot dishes towards the end of cooking to retain their texture and bright taste. For dressings or sauces, they can be finely chopped and incorporated for a more uniform flavor distribution. Their sharp profile also makes them a good counterpoint to richer ingredients.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to olives, capers offer a more pungent, briny, and less fruity flavor. They are also significantly smaller and have a firmer, less yielding texture. While both are often preserved in brine, capers provide a sharper, more acidic note that cuts through richness, whereas olives tend to offer a more mellow, sometimes bitter, or sweet profile.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs alike use capers to elevate the flavor of their culinary creations.
How to keep the rest
After opening the jar, store any remaining capers in their original 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.