Description
The wild Cycladic caper is a wonderful plant, with unique scent and flavor that grows on stones, rocks and cliffs. It bears edible flower buds (capers), well-known for their beneficial properties.
Capparis spinosa, the caper bush, is a shrub, the buds of which are handpicked and cured only with sea salt and thus can be consumed throughout the year. The sea salt bakes the caper and preserves its peppery flavour. The caper is collected during the months of May, June and July, when the buds are still tight. Caper buds are used in many recipes, especially in salads and cold appetizers.
Capers are low in calories, (4 tablespoons of capers contain only 8 calories) which makes it a great choice for those who want to lose or maintain their weight. Although it is a low-calorie food, it is a high source of antioxidants and vitamins, which are beneficial to our health.
The most important feature that makes caper a super food is its high flavonoid content (flavonoids are substances that protect cells from oxidative damage), such as quercetin, rutin and kaempferol.
Capers are a great source of fiber, which helps prevent constipation. One tablespoon of capers contains 0.3 grams of fiber, about 3 percent of the recommended daily fiber intake.
These edible flower buds can uplift all dishes.
• Caper paste can be used in many salads, in appetizers, in sauces and as a topping on pizzas.
• Capers give a special flavor to vegetables, meat, and fish (especially in recipes combined with anchovy sauce).
• It is also used in various dressings, for a unique taste.
