Learn about the differences between capers and caperberries.
Capers and caperberries both come from the same Mediterranean plant called Capparis spinosa, or caper bush, but they have many differences. While capers are pickled and often used as a seasoning on food, caperberries are typically served with cocktails. At Giolitti Deli, we carry Cento Capers in sea salt (2oz jars for $2.99,) Cento Capers in brine (2oz jars for $2.99,) and Bel Aria caperberries (15.75oz jars for $6.99.) Continue reading to learn more about capers and caperberries, and a few recipes that use each ingredient!
Differences
As mentioned above, capers and caperberries both come from the caper bush, but capers are the unopened buds of the bush, while caperberries are the fruit of the bush. Capers are pickled and used as a seasoning or garnish in many recipes, such as chicken piccata, pizza, salads, roasted potatoes, halibut or salmon, braised chicken, and other recipes that use butter, garlic, and lemon. Caperberries are also pickled, usually found with the stem on, and are typically served with cocktails as an alternative to olives.
Caperberries In Cocktails
To make a Classic Martini, you can customize it to meet your personal preference by adding vodka or gin, making it shaken or stirred, and garnishing it with caperberries or cocktail olives. Shake or stir ½ cup of vodka or gin and 1 ½ teaspoons of vermouth in a shaker filled with ice. Strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with Bel Air caperberries from Giolitti Deli for a simple and delicious cocktail!
Chicken Piccata And Capers Recipe
Chicken piccata may sound very fancy, but it is quite easy to make at home! For two servings, you will need:
- 2 (6-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon capers
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Start by placing the chicken between two sheets of heavy-duty plastic wrap and pound the chicken until it is ¼-inch thick, then season with salt. Pour olive oil in a large nonstick skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Next, remove the cooked chicken from the pan, and add broth and lemon juice to the same pan. Cook, uncovered, over high heat for 30 seconds, then stir in capers. Pour the sauce over the chicken, season with parsley and pepper, and enjoy!
Authentic Italian Cuisine From Giolitti Deli
Giolitti Deli is a full-service Delicatessen in Annapolis, MD, specializing in authentic Italian cuisine. Founded in 1992, we use the freshest ingredients to make time-honed recipes from scratch, with no MSG or preservatives. We believe in real food and offer many healthy options, including vegetarian and vegan menu items. At Giolitti Deli, we make our own sauces, mozzarella, grilled and roasted vegetables, bread, pizza dough, and desserts, and our sandwiches, salads, pasta, pizza, and entrees are made to order. Owner Mary Giolitti has combined her passion for great food and fine wine to offer Annapolis a true taste of Italy!
Team members who also make the business possible include Manager Kathy Hunter, Manager and Catering Director Cheryl Molesky, Head Baker Porfirio Diaz, Chef Alfredo Escobar, and Deli Manager Noe Merino. To contact us, please visit our contact page or give us a call at 410.266.8600. Also, be sure to keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and our blog!
Tags: caperberries, capers, Giolitti Deli, ingredients