Capers are something that people often either like or dislike. What many may not know is that there's a significant difference between capers and capers, so if you're not a fan, maybe you've tried the wrong one?
In this article, we will go through everything we think you should know about this little green delicacy, and especially why you should buy capers from the island of Salina.
Capers 101
Most people probably know what capers are, but a quick introduction won't hurt.
Capers are a delicacy with roots primarily in the Mediterranean region. These small buds come from the caper bush and have a history that stretches back to ancient Greece and Rome where it was widely used in both cooking and medicine.
Capers undoubtedly have a particular flavor profile that combines saltiness, acidity, and their unique taste. The preparation of the capers depends on the format in which you buy them. If you use the type of capers that we sell, which are capers in salt, you just need to soak it in water for about 60 minutes to mild the flavor.
Capers are often used as flavoring in a variety of dishes, including pasta, salads, fish dishes, pizza, and sauces. It is also used in Naples, where a popular pizza is with capers and anchovies.
Why you should buy Capers from us
Hopefully, by now, you've realized that we operate with 100% honesty. In some cases, ordinary things work, in others not. Common capers from the grocery store come in a vinegar solution, which makes them taste like pickled cucumber. This applies to both regular capers and caperberries.
May sound strange but that's just the way it is. And if you haven't tasted this flavor before, you're likely to do it now :)
Our capers from Sapori Eoliani are only salted, which means that the real caper flavor remains. We really recommend trying these if you haven't eaten real capers before, as the differences are enormous.
If you think we are talking nonsense, you should know that all serious caper enthusiasts, as well as producers and restaurants, know this is true...
Capers from the island of Salina
The capers we sell are from the island of Salina which is located north of Sicily and it's quite generally recognized as the place where the best capers come from. The reason for the unbeatable taste is simple: perfect cultivation conditions along with world-class picking/production.
The soil and climate on the island are perfect for capers, and the steep cliffs and proximity to the sea create a unique flavor profile, known for its intensity. The capers on Salina are hand-picked exactly when they are at their best for harvesting, which means that the caper growers have to get up long before it gets light in the morning.
After the capers have been picked, a careful sorting takes place, where everything unwanted is removed. The love for the craft combined with the environment has made the capers from Salina something that chefs all over the world want to have in their cooking, and that includes us :)
Moving on to the Aeolian Islands
The Aeolian Islands are a volcanic group of islands north of Sicily, and if you're into some "island hopping", there are not many better places to be. This article is about capers, but why not, Salina is indeed there :)
The seven main islands are known for their spectacular nature with active volcanoes and dramatic cliff formations. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their geological significance and general beauty. It's actually difficult to describe how unique the nature is out there. Local specialties include fresh fish dishes, special wines, and of course capers.
If you're looking for a lovely holiday, we really recommend visiting these islands, and then you can taste capers in their real essence.
Capers vs caperberries - Which is best?
Now we come to something that many might know a little less about: caperberries. Some may know that they exist, but not what the differences between regular capers and caperberries are. Capers and cap