Capers are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, particularly in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cooking. These tiny, immature flower buds of the caper plant add a burst of flavor and texture to various dishes, from salads to sauces, and from pasta to pizza. However, many home cooks are unsure of where to put capers to maximize their flavor and texture. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different ways to use capers and provide tips on where to put them for the best results.
The Flavor Profile of Capers
Before we dive into where to put capers, it’s essential to understand their flavor profile. Capers are known for their distinctive, pungent flavor, which is often described as tangy, sour, and slightly bitter. They have a unique ability to add depth and complexity to dishes, making them a popular choice for many chefs and home cooks.
Capers come in various sizes, ranging from tiny, non-pickled buds (surper or capucio) to larger, pickled buds (capperone or caperberry). The size and type of caper you use will affect the flavor and texture of your dish. For example, smaller capers have a more delicate flavor, while larger capers are often more robust and salty.
Where to Put Capers in Salads
Salads are an excellent way to showcase the flavor and texture of capers. Here are some tips on where to put capers in salads:
Capers as a Topping
Add capers as a topping to your salad for a burst of flavor and texture. They pair well with:
- Leafy greens like arugula, spinach, or mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes or sliced cucumbers
- Crumbly cheeses like feta or goat cheese
- Grilled chicken or salmon
Simply sprinkle capers over your salad and toss to combine. You can also mix them into your salad dressing for added flavor.
Capers in Salad Dressings
Capers can be used to make a variety of salad dressings, from vinaigrettes to creamy sauces. Here are some ideas:
- Add capers to a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard
- Mix capers with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy, tangy sauce
- Combine capers with chopped fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil for a fresh, herby dressing
Where to Put Capers in Sauces and Marinades
Capers are a staple ingredient in many sauces and marinades, particularly in Mediterranean and Italian cooking. Here are some tips on where to put capers:
Capers in Tomato Sauces
Add capers to your tomato sauce for a burst of flavor and texture. They pair well with:
- Fresh or canned tomatoes
- Garlic, onions, or shallots
- Olive oil or butter
- Herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley
Capers in Pesto and Chimichurri
Capers are a key ingredient in traditional pesto and chimichurri sauces. Here are some tips:
- Add capers to your pesto along with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese
- Mix capers with parsley, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, and olive oil for a classic chimichurri sauce
Where to Put Capers in Pasta and Pizza
Capers are a popular topping for pasta and pizza, particularly in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. Here are some tips:
Capers in Pasta Sauces
Add capers to your pasta sauce for a burst of flavor and texture. They pair well with:
- Olive oil or butter
- Garlic, onions, or shallots
- Fresh or canned tomatoes
- Herbs like basil, oregano, or parsley
Capers as a Pizza Topping
Add capers as a topping to your pizza for a salty, tangy flavor. They pair well with:
- Fresh or canned tomatoes
- Mozzarella or feta cheese
- Olives, artichokes, or anchovies
- Fresh herbs like basil or oregano
Tips for Using Capers
Here are some general tips for using capers in your cooking:
Rinse and Drain Capers
Before using capers, rinse them under cold water to remove excess salt. Then, drain them well to prevent excess moisture from affecting your dish.
Chop or Crush Capers
Chop or crush capers to release their flavor and texture. This is particularly useful when adding them to sauces, marinades, or dressings.
Use Capers in Moderation
Capers can be overpowering, so use them in moderation. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adding more capers if needed.
Pair Capers with Other Ingredients
Capers pair well with a variety of ingredients, including citrus, garlic, onions, and herbs. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite flavors.
| Flavor Profile | Pairs Well With |
|---|---|
| Tangy and sour | Citrus, garlic, onions, herbs |
| Savory and umami | Meat, cheese, vegetables, legumes |
| Salinity and texture |
By following these tips and guidelines, you’ll be able to unlock the full potential of capers and add a new dimension of flavor and texture to your cooking. Whether you’re making a salad, sauce, or pizza, capers are an excellent ingredient to have in your pantry. So, go ahead and get creative – where will you put capers next?
What are capers and where do they come from?
Capers are the immature flower buds of the caper plant, a perennial bush native to the Mediterranean region. They are typically harvested by hand and pickled or preserved in salt, which allows them to be stored and used throughout the year.
Capers have been a staple ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine for thousands of years, and their unique flavor and texture have made them a popular addition to many dishes. From adding a tangy, salty flavor to salads and sauces to providing a burst of flavor in pasta dishes and entrees, capers are a versatile ingredient that can elevate a wide range of recipes.
What’s the difference between pickled and salted capers?
Pickled capers are capers that have been preserved in a brine solution, typically made with vinegar, salt, and water. This process gives them a tangy, sour flavor and a soft, slightly crunchy texture. Pickled capers are often used in dishes where a bright, acidic flavor is desired, such as in salads, sauces, and marinades.
Salted capers, on the other hand, are capers that have been preserved in salt, which draws out excess moisture and helps to preserve the buds. Salted capers have a more intense, concentrated flavor than pickled capers and a firmer, chewier texture. They are often used in dishes where a richer, more savory flavor is desired, such as in stews, braises, and roasted vegetables.
Can I use capers in place of olives?
While capers and olives share some similarities in terms of their salty, savory flavor, they are not interchangeable ingredients. Capers have a more delicate, floral flavor than olives, and their texture is typically softer and more fragile. That being said, capers can be used in place of olives in some recipes, particularly those where a more subtle, nuanced flavor is desired.
However, it’s worth noting that capers are often used in much smaller quantities than olives, so be sure to adjust the amount accordingly. Additionally, if you’re looking for a more intense, briny flavor, olives may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision to use capers or olives will depend on the specific recipe and the flavor profile you’re trying to achieve.
How do I store capers?
Capers are a pantry staple that can be stored for several months to a year or more, depending on the storage conditions. Pickled capers should be stored in the refrigerator, where they will keep for several months. Salted capers, on the other hand, can be stored at room temperature, but it’s best to keep them in an airtight container to preserve their flavor and texture.
It’s also important to note that capers can become stale or develop off-flavors if exposed to heat, light, or moisture, so be sure to store them in a cool, dark place. If you notice any changes in the flavor or texture of your capers, it’s best to use them promptly or replace them with fresh ones.
Can I make my own capers at home?
Yes, it is possible to make your own capers at home, although it can be a bit time-consuming. To make pickled capers, you’ll need to harvest the immature flower buds of the caper plant, rinse them in cold water, and then soak them in a brine solution for several weeks. For salted capers, you’ll need to harvest the buds, rinse them in cold water, and then dry them in a single layer on a paper towel-lined plate before storing them in an airtight container.
Making your own capers at home can be a fun and rewarding process, but it does require some patience and attention to detail. If you don’t have access to a caper plant or prefer not to go through the process of making your own capers, you can always purchase them at a specialty store or online.
What are some common dishes that use capers?
Capers are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from salads and sauces to pasta dishes and entrees. Some common dishes that use capers include salads like Greek salad and caprese, pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara and cacio e pepe, and sauces like piccata and puttanesca.
Capers are also a key ingredient in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes, such as dolmas, falafel, and shakshuka. In addition, capers can be used to add flavor to vegetables, meats, and grains, making them a great addition to roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and pilafs.
Can I use capers in sweet dishes?
While capers are often associated with savory dishes, they can also be used in sweet dishes to add a surprising burst of flavor. In some Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, capers are used to add a salty, tangy flavor to sweet dishes like cakes, cookies, and fruit salads.
In general, it’s best to use pickled capers in sweet dishes, as they have a more delicate flavor than salted capers. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, as the flavor of capers can quickly overpower sweet ingredients. With a little experimentation, you may find that capers add a unique and interesting dimension to your sweet dishes.