Capers and Cucunci: Culinary Gems from the Mediterranean

A plant suited to sun and sea

The caper bush thrives in dry, rocky Mediterranean landscapes, especially along the Sicilian coast and the Aeolian Islands. With its vivid green foliage and striking purple-white flowers, the plant beautifies cliffs and terraces. It’s resilient and drought-tolerant—ideal for low-maintenance gardens.

How to tell them apart

Capers are small, round, and picked before the flower opens. Cucunci are larger, elongated, and harvested once the flower has bloomed into fruit. Their long stems make them perfect for antipasti and aperitifs.

Health benefits

Cucunci are naturally rich in quercetin, a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. They also support digestion and fluid balance.

Culinary uses

Capers are often used in veal dishes, like vitello tonnato, or tomato-based pasta sauces like puttanesca. Cucunci, on the other hand, offer a milder taste and are perfect for salads, charcuterie boards, and pasta dishes.

Storage tips

Like capers, cucunci are preserved in salt, vinegar, or brine. Be sure to rinse them well before use to avoid excessive saltiness.