Alcaparrones

Caperberries (‘alcaparrones’) are the fruit of the caper bush, Capparis spinosa, which grows wild throughout the hot Mediterranean. The caper (‘alcaparras’), i.e. the flowering bud of the same plant, is more common, but it is really in Spain where caperberries are most relished. Usually preserved in vinegar, caperberries are a good accompaniment to fish, or as part of a sauce or marinade. And as they are less pungent than their cousin, they can be enjoyed as a simple tapa on their own or mixed with olives. They should have a firm crunchy texture and not be too large as the seeds can be slightly gritty. (See Spanish Suppliers)