Capers are a versatile and aromatic ingredient that can add a burst of flavor to various dishes, from Mediterranean to Italian cuisine. These tiny pickled flower buds have been a staple in many cuisines for centuries, and their unique taste and texture make them a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. In this article, we will delve into the world of capers, exploring their history, types, and most importantly, how to use capers in cooking.
A Brief History of Capers
Capers have been a part of human cuisine for thousands of years, with evidence of their use dating back to ancient civilizations in the Mediterranean region. The caper plant, also known as Capparis spinosa, is a perennial bush native to the Mediterranean, and its flower buds have been pickled and used as a condiment for centuries. The ancient Greeks and Romans used capers to add flavor to their dishes, and they were also used in traditional medicine.
Types of Capers
Capers come in different sizes, and their classification is based on their size and quality. The most common types of capers are:
Nonpareil: These are the smallest and most prized capers, made from the tiny buds that are picked by hand. They are usually pickled in a salty brine and have a delicate flavor.
Surper: These capers are slightly larger than nonpareil and are also pickled in a salty brine. They have a slightly stronger flavor than nonpareil capers.
Capote: These capers are larger than surper and are often pickled in a vinegar-based solution. They have a stronger flavor than nonpareil and surper capers.
How to Use Capers in Cooking
Capers can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and sauces to pasta and meat dishes. Here are some ways to use capers in cooking:
Adding Capers to Salads
Capers are a great addition to salads, adding a burst of flavor and texture. They can be used in place of olives or as a complement to other ingredients. Try adding capers to a classic Greek salad, made with tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, feta cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Salad Recipe: Capers and Tomato Salad
| Ingredients: | Quantity: |
|---|---|
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1 cup |
| Red onion, thinly sliced | 1/2 cup |
| Capers, rinsed and drained | 2 tablespoons |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Combine cherry tomatoes, red onion, and capers in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Using Capers in Sauces and Marinades
Capers can be used to add flavor to sauces and marinades. They can be chopped and added to pasta sauces, pizza sauces, or used as a topping for pizzas. Capers can also be used to make a flavorful marinade for chicken or fish.
Marinade Recipe: Capers and Lemon Marinade
| Ingredients: | Quantity: |
|---|---|
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 1/2 cup |
| Freshly squeezed lemon juice | 1/4 cup |
| Chopped capers | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Combine olive oil, lemon juice, chopped capers, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well and use as a marinade for chicken or fish.
Adding Capers to Pasta Dishes
Capers are a classic ingredient in many pasta dishes, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine. They can be added to pasta sauces, used as a topping for pasta dishes, or used to make a flavorful pasta salad.
Pasta Recipe: Spaghetti with Capers and Tomatoes
| Ingredients: | Quantity: |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 1 pound |
| Cherry tomatoes, halved | 1 cup |
| Capers, rinsed and drained | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Combine cherry tomatoes, capers, garlic, and olive oil in a bowl. Toss cooked spaghetti with the tomato and caper mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Using Capers in Meat and Vegetable Dishes
Capers can be used to add flavor to meat and vegetable dishes. They can be used as a topping for grilled meats or vegetables, or used to make a flavorful sauce for roasted meats.
Meat Recipe: Grilled Chicken with Capers and Lemon
| Ingredients: | Quantity: |
|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 4 |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Freshly squeezed lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Chopped capers | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 1 clove |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, chopped capers, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breasts. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Conclusion
Capers are a versatile ingredient that can add a burst of flavor to various dishes. From salads and sauces to pasta and meat dishes, capers can be used in many different ways. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, capers are a great ingredient to have in your pantry. With their unique flavor and texture, capers can elevate any dish and add a touch of Mediterranean flair.
Remember, when using capers in cooking, it’s essential to rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt and vinegar. This will help to bring out their natural flavor and texture.
What are capers and where do they come from?
Capers are the immature flower buds of the caper plant, which is native to the Mediterranean region. They are a popular ingredient in many cuisines, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking. The caper plant is a perennial bush that grows in dry, rocky areas and produces small, fragrant flowers.
Capers are typically harvested by hand, as they are delicate and require careful handling. The buds are picked at different stages of maturity, depending on the desired size and flavor. The smallest buds, known as nonpareil, are considered the most prized and are often used as a garnish or added to dishes at the last minute to preserve their delicate flavor.
What is the difference between caper sizes?
Capers come in different sizes, which are classified according to their diameter. The smallest capers, known as nonpareil, are less than 7 mm in diameter and are considered the most delicate and flavorful. The next size up is surper, which ranges from 7-9 mm in diameter, followed by capote, which ranges from 9-11 mm in diameter.
The size of the caper affects its flavor and texture, with smaller capers being more delicate and larger capers being more robust. Nonpareil capers are often used as a garnish or added to dishes at the last minute, while larger capers are often used in cooked dishes where they can hold their own against other flavors.
How do I store capers?
Capers are typically packed in salt or vinegar, which helps to preserve them and add flavor. To store capers, keep them in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or cupboard. If you don’t plan to use your capers within a few months, you can also store them in the refrigerator to prolong their shelf life.
It’s also important to keep capers away from direct sunlight and heat, as this can cause them to lose their flavor and texture. If you’re using capers that are packed in salt, be sure to rinse them before using to remove excess salt.
Can I grow my own caper plant?
Yes, you can grow your own caper plant, but it requires a specific climate and soil condition. Caper plants prefer well-drained soil and full sun, and they thrive in dry, rocky areas. They are also sensitive to frost, so they need to be protected during the winter months.
If you live in a warm, dry climate, you can try growing your own caper plant from seed or by purchasing a seedling from a nursery. Keep in mind that caper plants can be invasive, so be sure to provide them with a large enough container or a designated area in your garden.
How do I use capers in cooking?
Capers can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and sauces to pasta and meat dishes. They add a distinctive flavor and texture that can enhance the overall taste of a dish. To use capers, simply rinse them with water to remove excess salt or vinegar, and then chop or slice them according to your recipe.
Capers can be used raw or cooked, depending on the desired flavor and texture. Raw capers are often used as a garnish or added to salads, while cooked capers are often used in sauces and stews. You can also use caper juice or caper paste as a flavoring agent in various dishes.
Are capers good for you?
Yes, capers are a nutritious ingredient that is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium, and they contain a number of antioxidants that can help to protect against cell damage and inflammation.
Capers also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Additionally, capers contain a number of flavonoids, which can help to improve cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of certain diseases.
Can I substitute capers with other ingredients?
While capers have a unique flavor and texture, you can substitute them with other ingredients in a pinch. Some possible substitutes for capers include pickled onions, chopped olives, or chopped pickles. However, keep in mind that these ingredients will change the flavor and texture of your dish, so you may need to adjust the recipe accordingly.
If you’re looking for a more authentic substitute, you can try using nasturtium seeds or buds, which have a similar flavor and texture to capers. However, these ingredients can be harder to find, so you may need to look for them at specialty stores or online.