Caper
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? Caper |
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| Capparis spinosa Linnaeus, 1753 |
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A Caper (Capparis spinosa) is a shrub from the Mediterranean region. It is best known for its edible buds and fruit which are usually consumed pickled.
Culinary uses
The pickled or salted caper bud (also called caper) is often used as a seasoning or garnish. Capers are a common ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. The grown fruit of the caper shrub is also available, prepared similarly to the buds, as caper berries.
The berries, when ready to pick, are a dark olive green and about the size of a kernel of maize. They are picked and then pickled in a vinegar and salt solution.
Capers are often enjoyed in cold smoked salmon or cured salmon dishes, salad, pizza, pasta and sauces.
It was used in ancient Greece as a carminative. The caper-berry is mentioned in the Bible in the book of Ecclesiastes as "avionah" according to modern interpretation of the word.
Additional information
- Gernot Katzer's Spice Dictionary — Caper
- Caper factsheet — NewCROP, Purdue University