Capers are found in the pickle and mezze aisles of supermarkets, at specialty grocers and in online stores. When choosing, look for three things: a glass jar (so you can see color and texture), clear brine, and intact buds. Small, tight buds are usually the most aromatic.
Where Can You Buy Capers?
Capers are far easier to find than they once were. You’ll typically come across them at:
- Supermarkets: In the pickle, mezze or world-foods aisle.
- Online grocers and e-commerce: With home delivery. Specialty grocers and delis: Often loose or in smaller jars.
You can find your nearest stockist of Berrak capers on our Sales Locations and Distributors page.
What Determines the Price of Capers?
Capers aren’t a garden crop like cucumbers; they’re the unopened flower buds of the caper bush, and they’re harvested by hand. That labor-intensive harvest is the biggest factor in the price. Other factors:
- Bud size: Smaller buds take more effort to pick and are usually valued higher.
- Jar size: Larger jars tend to be more economical per unit.
- Packaging: Glass jars are preferred for preserving quality.
How Do You Choose Good Capers?
Three things to check when you pick up a jar:
- Is it a glass jar? Glass lets you see the capers’ color and brine. You can’t judge what you can’t see.
- How does the brine look? Slight cloudiness is normal in natural fermentation, but unusual color change isn’t a good sign.
- Are the buds intact? Firm, unbroken buds are better in both appearance and texture.
What Do Capers Taste Like?
Capers are sharp, salty and slightly tangy. They’re less something you eat on their own and more a way to give a dish character. Even a small amount noticeably transforms a salad or pasta. If it’s your first time, start by adding a few to a salad.
How Should Capers Be Stored?
Once opened, keep them refrigerated and submerged in their brine. As long as the buds stay covered, they’ll keep their freshness for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy capers? In supermarket pickle/mezze aisles, online grocers and specialty shops. See our Sales Locations and Distributors for the nearest stockist.
Why are capers expensive? Capers are hand-picked unopened flower buds from the caper bush — that labor-intensive harvest sets the price.
What do capers taste like? Sharp, salty and slightly tangy, adding freshness and depth to a dish.
How do I choose good capers? Look for a glass jar, clear brine and firm, intact buds.
