Capers (Capparis spinosa)

Introduction:

Capers are the flower buds of the caper family and are a spice. As they are inedible raw, they are pickled in vinegar, oil or brine.

Use/Preparation:

As a spice, capers are mainly used in Mediterranean dishes. They are excellent for making vinaigrettes, pesto or dips, and go well with pizza, risotto or pasta sauces, fish (dishes), salads or remoulade. Capers are also used to flavour Königsberger meatballs.

Health:

Capers are rich in magnesium, calcium, vitamin C, zinc and iron. The secondary plant ingredient quercetin has a strong antioxidant effect and thus strengthens blood vessels and reduces inflammation. Capers contain particularly high levels of quercetin. The nutritional values depend on the corresponding preservation method of the capers.

Alternatives:

Buds of dandelion, daisies, nasturtium or, in wild garlic season, flower buds of wild garlic, can serve as an alternative.

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Average nutritional values	per 100 g
Energy (kcal/kJ)	28/116
Fat	0,4 g
Healthy fatty acids	0 g
Carbohydrates	2,7 g
Sugar	0 g
Protein	2,1 g
Salt	0 g