1 Tsp Capers, Fancy Nonpareille 0 calories. Capers are small, pea-sized berries that come from a Mediterranean plant. They are usually pickled in vinegar or salt and are commonly used as a condiment or in various dishes. Whether you’re a fan of seafood or not, chances are you’ve come across capers before. They have a slightly salty and tangy flavor that adds a unique twist to any recipe.

Capers are not only tasty but also quite nutritious. They are low in calories and contain a good amount of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. Capers also have anti-inflammatory properties and may help in reducing cholesterol levels.

In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about capers, including their benefits, uses, and where to buy them. So, let's dive in!

What are Capers?

Capers are the unopened flower buds of the Capparis spinosa plant. The plant is shrubby and can grow up to 3 feet tall. Capers are native to the Mediterranean region, where they have been used in cooking for thousands of years. They are usually sold pickled in brine or vinegar, and can be found in most grocery stores. The size of capers can vary from tiny (nonpareille) to larger (surfines). Nonpareille capers are the smallest and most expensive variety, while surfines are the largest. In addition to their culinary uses, capers also have medicinal properties. They have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as indigestion, sore throat, and rheumatism.

How to Use Capers in Your Recipes

Capers can be used in a variety of recipes, from salads and pasta to sauces and soups. They are particularly popular in Mediterranean cuisine and are often paired with fish and seafood dishes. Here are some ways you can use capers in your recipes: - Add them to a classic Caesar salad or pasta puttanesca for a burst of flavor. - Use them as a topping for pizza or crostini, or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

Benefits of Capers

Capers offer several health benefits due to their rich nutrient profile. Here are some of the key benefits of capers: - They are low in calories and can aid in weight loss. - They contain antioxidants that can help prevent the damage caused by free radicals and lower the risk of chronic diseases like cancer.

Capers in Different Cuisines

Capers are a popular ingredient in European and Mediterranean cuisine. Here are some examples of how they are used in different cuisines: - Italian cuisine: Capers are often used in pasta dishes like spaghetti alla puttanesca or in sauces like piccata. - French cuisine: Capers are an essential ingredient in the sauce gribiche, and are also used in salad dressings and as a topping for fish dishes.

Where to Buy Capers

Capers can be found in most grocery stores, usually in the condiment or pickled vegetable aisle. They are also available online, where you can find a wider variety of brands and sizes. When buying capers, look for ones that are firm, with a deep green color and a briny smell. Nonpareille capers are the smallest and most expensive variety, while larger capers are more affordable. It’s important to note that capers can come in salt or vinegar brine, so be sure to check the label before purchasing.

Storing Capers

Once you’ve opened your jar of capers, it’s important to store them properly to keep them fresh. Here are some tips for storing capers: - Store capers in the refrigerator after opening to keep them fresh for up to 6 months. - Make sure the capers are fully submerged in their brine or vinegar to prevent spoilage.

Capers vs Other Condiments

Capers are a unique condiment that offers a tangy and slightly salty flavor. Here’s how they compare to other condiments: - Olives: Capers have a similar flavor to olives, but are smaller and offer a more intense flavor. - Pickles: Pickles are made from cucumbers and have a sour flavor, while capers are made from flower buds and have a tangy flavor.

Capers and Nutrition

Capers are a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, iron, calcium, and magnesium. They are also rich in antioxidants that can help protect against chronic diseases. Capers are low in calories, with a single teaspoon of nonpareille capers containing only 0.8 calories. They are also low in fat and carbohydrates. However, it’s important to note that capers are high in sodium, with a single teaspoon of nonpareille capers containing about 60 mg of sodium.

Capers in Cocktails

Capers are not just for savory dishes. They can also be used in cocktails to add a unique flavor. Here are some cocktail recipes that feature capers: - The Dirty Martini: This classic cocktail is made with gin, vermouth, and olive brine. Swap out the olive brine for caper brine to create a dirty martini with a twist. - The Capertini: This cocktail is made with vodka, caper brine, and a splash of dry vermouth. Garnish with a few capers for a unique twist.

Capers in Salad Dressings

Capers can also be used to add a tangy flavor to salad dressings. Here are some salad dressing recipes that feature capers: - Lemon Caper Dressing: This dressing is made with lemon juice, capers, mustard, and olive oil. It’s ideal for drizzling over a fresh green salad. - Caesar Dressing: Classic Caesar dressing is made with anchovies, but you can swap them out for capers for a vegetarian-friendly version.