Capers Vs. Caper Berries: What's The Difference?

There's more than meets the eye when it comes to capers — namely, caper berries. While it might sound like the two ingredients are interchangeable, that's actually not the case. Both buds and berries may share certain gustatory and aesthetic characteristics; however, there is an especially stark difference between them in terms of how they're harvested.

Capparis spinosa, as it's dubbed in the scientific realm, is a prickly bush that grows mainly in the Mediterranean. Given its close relation to the mustard family, it isn't hard to understand why both capers and caper berries often have a zesty edge. While they do have a flavor similar to green olives, capers and caper berries also have a distinctly vegetal flavor with herbal and floral nuances that make the ingredient all the more unique. That said, because both are marked by bitterness when fresh, capers and caper berries are often packed in brine or salt to mellow some of this intensity.

A fixture in a host of different cuisines, the two chartreuse-colored morsels can add significant tang and texture to a surplus of dishes. Likewise, they can improve visual appeal by providing a pop of color, too. If that weren't enough to make you want to pick up a jar, it's also worth mentioning that capers and their berry relatives even boast anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and anticarcinogenic properties.

While they both maintain the same origin story, the period of harvesting is what differentiates capers from caper berries. Essentially, caper bushes produce tiny flower buds (capers) that, when left to blossom, will eventually turn into larger fruits (caper berries). This means that depending on when they're picked, the fruit will boast its own unique attributes.

In comparison to pea-sized capers, much larger caper berries look like a cross between a plump olive and a stemmed cherry as they're picked with their stems intact. Given that caper berries are harvested mature, they also tend to have a subtle flavor in comparison to their concentrated caper counterparts. What's more, caper berries also offer extra texture. Unlike seedless capers, the berries have an abundance of pleasantly crunchy seeds inside the fruit.

Despite these differences, capers and caper berries are usually packed in salt or a tangy brine post-harvest. While this method of processing benefits flavor, it also elongates shelf life — that is, if capers and caper berries are stored correctly. Ideally, brined renditions should be stored in the fridge where they'll keep for about nine months, whereas salt-packed options can be stored at room temperature for a maximum of six months. However, if you notice changes like discoloration or pungent aromas at any point, it's best to toss the jar.

Both capers and caper berries can make a fabulous addition to a wide range of recipes, especially those teeming with decadence — after all, a lemony and salty burst of flavor is just the thing to cut through richness. However, due to their differences, the duo can't always be used interchangeably.

Since capers boast a bolder profile that's ultra funky and super tangy, we suggest using them sparingly. For example, a few capers (ideally, rinsed) are more than enough to work into a pasta puttanesca or jazz up a simple aglio e olio sauce. Similarly, they shine when chopped into creamy sauces like a velvety velouté for roast chicken or heavenly hollandaise for asparagus. Capers also pair well with seafood, whether that be a tuna salad, a bagel with lox, or a caper-crusted filet. Fresh or fried capers even make a great garnish to top anything from deviled eggs to chicken schnitzel.

In contrast, caper berries have a milder flavor, which means they can be used more generously. That said, much like capers, caper berries shine in sauces and dressings. Simply give them a chop before tossing them into herby aioli, luscious remoulade, or vibrant tapenade. Otherwise, caper berries are also a delicious addition to savory charcuterie, hearty grain bowls, vegetable flatbreads, or even vitello tonnato. A singular caper berry can even elevate cocktails like a martini or gin and tonic! So, how will you use capers and caper berries?