snackalot

Don't Judge a Caper by its Cover

Coming from a family that thrives on discovering delicious and unique foods, I like to think that I’ve sampled a wider variety of ingredients than the average Joe.  But, there is one relatively common ingredient that has eluded me in my 28 years of life - the caper.  I’ve seen these green pea look alikes in the grocery store, on menus and in countless recipes, but for some reason never chose to try them. Not out of fear, but because I didn’t trust them. How could something so little and green, that’s been brined, taste good? I ignored the popular conception that capers are tasty and chose to ostracize them. That is, until, I was served Chicken Piccata made with a lemon-caper butter sauce. The dish arrived and was covered with small, army-green orbs and I instantly knew that I was face to face with THEM.  Our paths had finally crossed and there was nowhere for me to run.  It was finally time for me to give the caper a chance. With anticipation, I took one small bite.  And then devoured every morsel on my plate, including every single caper in sight.  How wrong I had been about the delightful flavor-packed caper!  They added a subtle tang to the meal that I adored. Never again will I pre-judge and overlook an ingredient, which, just like the rest of us, only wants to be loved and included. From now on, the caper will always be welcomed at my table.

Comments

No Comments

About snackalot

I'm an Associate Editor for Taste of Home Healthy Cooking and Simple & Delicious magazines. I love food and trying new recipes, but have only been cooking since I got married 3 years ago.