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Capers Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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capers

[ˈkeɪpərz ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

pickled

Small, green flower buds that are pickled in vinegar and used as a pungent condiment in cooking.

Synonyms

brined capers, caper berries, pickled flower buds.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
capers

Refers to the general term for the small, pickled flower buds of the caper bush, commonly used in cooking to add a sharp, tangy flavor.

  • I love adding capers to my pasta for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Capers are a key ingredient in chicken piccata.
pickled flower buds

Another way to refer to capers, emphasizing the pickling process. This term is less commonly used but conveys the same meaning as capers.

  • The pickled flower buds add a zesty kick to the dish.
  • We sprinkled some pickled flower buds on top of the fish for extra flavor.
brined capers

Specifically describes capers that have been preserved in a salty brine. The brine intensifies their flavor and helps to preserve them.

  • Brined capers are great for enhancing the taste of salads and sauces.
  • These brined capers have a wonderfully intense flavor.
caper berries

Larger than capers, caper berries are the fruit of the same bush and have a milder flavor. Often used as a garnish or in antipasti platters.

  • I served caper berries alongside cheese and olives for the appetizer.
  • Caper berries can add a special touch to a charcuterie board.

Examples of usage

  • They added capers to the salad for an extra burst of flavor.
  • The pasta dish is topped with a sprinkle of capers.
  • Capers are often used in Mediterranean cuisine.
  • The tangy flavor of capers pairs well with fish dishes.
  • You can find capers in the condiment section of the grocery store.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary

  • Often found in Mediterranean dishes, capers add a salty, tart taste and are frequently used in sauces like tartar sauce.
  • They are commonly included in recipes for pasta, salads, and fish dishes, brightening flavors with their unique zing.
  • Capers are often confused with olives, but they are picked from a different plant and have a distinct flavor profile.

Health

  • Rich in antioxidants, these buds help fight inflammation and are known to support heart health.
  • They contain vitamin K, which is important for blood clotting and bone health.
  • As a low-calorie addition to meals, capers can enhance flavor without adding fat or sugar.

Cultural Significance

  • In Mediterranean cultures, the use of capers is traditional, representing a connection to the land and historical cooking practices.
  • They are often harvested by hand, reflecting a labor-intensive process that connects people to their local environments.
  • Capers are featured in many gourmet and artisan products, indicating their status as a delicacy in modern cuisine.

Botanical Facts

  • Capers come from the Capparis spinosa plant, which thrives in rocky, dry areas of the Mediterranean and parts of Asia.
  • The plant blooms with white to pink flowers before the buds are harvested, showcasing its ornamental beauty.
  • Capers are typically pickled in brine or vinegar, preserving their flavor and extending their shelf life.

Origin of 'capers'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'capparis,' which is named after the caper plant that produces these buds.
  • In Italian, capers are called 'caprini,' showing their popularity in Mediterranean cuisine.
  • They are linked to the Greek word 'kapparis,' reflecting their deep historical roots in ancient cultures.

The word 'capers' originated from the Latin word 'capparis', which in turn came from the Greek word 'kapparis'. Capers have been used in cooking for centuries, particularly in Mediterranean cuisine. They add a unique tangy flavor to dishes and are prized for their pungent taste.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,545, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.