Capers, the unopened flower buds of the caper plant (Capparis spinosa), are a quintessential ingredient in Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine. Growing wild across Malta’s stony landscapes and stone walls, these tiny, tangy delights add a burst of flavor to countless traditional dishes.
The Journey from Bud to Table
Growing and Harvesting Capers
Caper plants thrive in Malta’s Mediterranean climate, with their bushy shrubs and drooping branches adapting perfectly to the island’s rocky terrain. Here’s how they go from plant to plate:
- Harvest Season: The buds are picked in March and April before blooming into white flowers.
- Flowering: If left unpicked, the buds transform into stunning, fragrant flowers with white petals and pink-purple stamens.
- Preparation: The harvested buds are salted and macerated in vinegar to create the iconic capers used in cooking.
Did you know? The fruit of the caper plant, also edible, can be prepared in the same way as the buds, offering an equally delicious tangy flavor.
Maltese Capers in the Kitchen
In Maltese cuisine, capers—locally known as “gabirjola“—are celebrated for their zesty, tangy flavor. They feature in numerous traditional dishes, including:
Hobz biz-Zejt
A slice of Maltese bread topped with:
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- Olive oil,
- Fresh tomatoes,
- Capers,
- Olives,
- Optional: Tuna or anchovies.
This simple yet delicious dish is a perfect summer treat.
Sea Bream Pie
A flavorful pie made with:
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- Sea bream fillets,
- Vegetables,
- Olives,
- A generous helping of capers.
The pastry serves as a delightful base for this oven-baked classic.
Puttanesca Pasta
A Mediterranean staple, this pasta dish features a vibrant mix of:
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- Capers,
- Black olives,
- Tomatoes,
- Garlic.
Each bite offers an explosion of rich, tangy flavors.
Gribiche Sauce
A cold sauce perfect for pairing with fish or cold meats. Made with:
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- Capers,
- Hard-boiled eggs,
- Mustard,
- Vinegar.
Its tangy, creamy profile enhances any dish it accompanies.
The Beauty of the Caper Flower
While capers are renowned for their culinary uses, their flowers are equally captivating. The white petals and pink-purple stamens bloom briefly, lasting just a single day. These delicate blossoms are a reminder of the natural beauty of Malta’s rugged landscapes.
A Taste of Malta in Every Bite
From the rustic charm of Hobz biz-Zejt to the refined notes of Gribiche sauce, capers are a cornerstone of Maltese cuisine. Whether you’re savoring them in a traditional dish or exploring their culinary versatility, these small buds pack a punch of flavor that’s uniquely Maltese.
Plan your culinary adventure in Malta and discover how capers bring the taste of the Mediterranean to life!
