Capers add a unique flavor and texture to dishes, and Nonpareille capers are particularly prized for their delicate size and flavor. One serving of 34 capers (5 g) contains just 5 calories, making them a great addition to a range of recipes.
Nonpareille capers are also a good source of fiber, vitamin K, and iron. They are a great way to add flavor to dishes without adding excess calories.
In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for using Nonpareille capers in your cooking, as well as the nutritional benefits of adding them to your diet.
What are Nonpareille Capers?
Nonpareille capers are the smallest capers, measuring less than 7mm in diameter. They are usually picked before they have fully matured and are then dried, brined, or salted. Nonpareille capers are known for their delicate texture and slightly tangy flavor. They are a popular ingredient in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Nutritional Value of Nonpareille Capers
In addition to being low in calories, Nonpareille capers are also rich in fiber, vitamin K, and iron. One tablespoon of capers (about 8 g) provides 1.5 g of fiber, 5% of your daily vitamin K requirement, and 3% of your daily iron requirement. Capers are also high in flavonoids, which are natural compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
How to Use Nonpareille Capers in Cooking
Nonpareille capers can be used in a variety of ways in cooking. They are a great addition to pasta dishes, salads, sauces, and dips. To use Nonpareille capers, rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess salt or brine. You can then add them directly to your dish or chop them finely to create a paste or pesto. Keep in mind that capers are quite salty, so you may want to adjust the amount of salt in your dish accordingly.
Nonpareille Capers as a Garnish
In addition to adding flavor to dishes, Nonpareille capers can also be used as a garnish. To use capers as a garnish, simply sprinkle them over the top of your dish or arrange them in a decorative pattern. This can add a pop of flavor and visual interest to your dish.
Benefits of Consuming Nonpareille Capers
Adding Nonpareille capers to your diet can provide a range of health benefits. The fiber in capers can help improve digestion and lower cholesterol levels, while the flavonoids may have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Capers are also low in calories and fat, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.
Nonpareille Capers vs Other Capers
While Nonpareille capers are the smallest and most delicate type of caper, there are several other varieties to choose from. Capucines capers, for example, are slightly larger than Nonpareille and have a slightly different flavor. Meanwhile, capotes capers are the largest and have the strongest flavor.
History and Cultivation of Nonpareille Capers
Capers have been used in cooking for centuries and are native to the Mediterranean region. Nonpareille capers are primarily grown in the South of France, where they are hand-picked from the delicate caper flower buds. Today, Nonpareille capers are also cultivated in other regions, including Spain, Italy, and Morocco.
Storing Nonpareille Capers
Nonpareille capers can be stored in the refrigerator for several months, or in the freezer for longer periods. To store Nonpareille capers in the refrigerator, transfer them to an airtight container and cover with brine or vinegar. To store them in the freezer, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag and remove as much air as possible before sealing. They will keep for up to a year in the freezer.
Nonpareille Capers in Mediterranean Cuisine
Nonpareille capers are a staple of Mediterranean cuisine and are used in a variety of dishes, from pasta puttanesca to Greek salad. Their delicate flavor and texture make them a popular ingredient in sauces and dips, as well as a garnish for meat and fish dishes.
Pairing Nonpareille Capers with Wines
Nonpareille capers pair well with a range of wines, particularly crisp whites and light reds. Try pairing Nonpareille capers with a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for a refreshing and light combination, or with a Pinot Noir for a slightly richer and more complex pairing.
Nonpareille capers are a great way to add flavor to dishes without adding excess calories.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nonpareille Capers
1. What are nonpareille capers?
Nonpareille capers are small, pickled flower buds that are commonly used as a seasoning or garnish in various dishes. They are known for their tangy, salty flavor and are often used in Mediterranean cuisine.
2. How are nonpareille capers prepared?
To prepare nonpareille capers, the flower buds are harvested, sorted by size, then soaked in water and vinegar. They are then packed in jars with brine or vinegar and sold as a preserved ingredient.
3. What are the health benefits of nonpareille capers?
Nonpareille capers are low in calories and high in antioxidants, which can support a healthy immune system. They also contain compounds that may help lower inflammation and blood pressure.
4. How are nonpareille capers used in cooking?
Nonpareille capers are often used to add flavor and texture to sauces, salads, dressings, and pasta dishes. They can also be used as a garnish for meat, fish, and vegetable dishes.
5. Can nonpareille capers be substituted for other types of capers?
Yes, nonpareille capers can be substituted for other types of capers in recipes. However, they are smaller and milder in flavor than larger capers, so it may be necessary to adjust the amount used in a recipe.