top of page

The Mediterranean Secret: What Makes Capers So Unique?

  • Writer: Tuna TAS
    Tuna TAS
  • Oct 29
  • 3 min read

Small, tangy, and deeply aromatic — Mediterranean Capers are among the oldest and most distinctive ingredients in world cuisine.From ancient Greek kitchens to modern Michelin-star restaurants, capers have been prized for their ability to add brightness and depth to almost any dish.

At BestCapers by Tuna Sourcing, we celebrate this Mediterranean treasure by preserving centuries of tradition through responsible sourcing, natural processing, and a commitment to quality.

Bowl of Mediterranean capers with sea salt and olive oil on rustic wooden table – BestCapers.com blog visual

A Legacy Rooted in the Mediterranean Sun

The story of capers begins in the sun-soaked landscapes of the Mediterranean basin — Turkey, Greece, Italy, and North Africa.The caper bush (Capparis spinosa) thrives in rocky, coastal soils where few other crops can survive.Its resilience and adaptability have made it a symbol of the region’s resourceful spirit and culinary creativity.

Each tiny bud is hand-picked at dawn, before it blooms into a flower.Once harvested, the buds are cured in sea-salt brine or dry salt — a natural fermentation process that develops the intense, tangy flavor capers are famous for.

Why Mediterranean Capers Are So Distinctive

The secret lies in three elements: soil, climate, and time.

  • Mineral-rich soil gives capers their sharp, floral aroma.

  • Warm, dry summers intensify their natural oils and flavor compounds.

  • Slow brining allows enzymes to unlock the caper’s signature tang and aroma.

This combination creates a flavor that is simultaneously salty, lemony, and earthy — unlike any other ingredient in the Mediterranean pantry.

A Flavor Enhancer in Global Cuisine

From Italian piccata sauces to French tapenades, and from Spanish seafood dishes to Turkish mezes, capers are the silent heroes behind countless recipes.They bring balance to rich and creamy flavors, turning simple dishes into gourmet experiences.

Chefs often describe capers as “the punctuation marks of the plate” — tiny, powerful bursts that complete the sentence of a dish.

The BestCapers Approach: From Origin to Perfection

At BestCapers by Tuna Sourcing, we bring together traditional craftsmanship and modern traceability:

  • Multi-origin sourcing from Turkey, Morocco, and Southern Europe ensures consistent year-round supply.

  • Natural brining methods preserve authentic flavor and texture.

  • Certified facilities (HACCP, FSSC 22000, ISO 22000) guarantee quality and safety.

  • Sustainable farming partnerships support small-scale Mediterranean producers.

Every shipment carries not just flavor — but heritage, transparency, and trust.

The Many Faces of Mediterranean Capers

Depending on their size and maturity, capers are classified into types like Lilliput, Non-pareille, Surfine, and Capote — each offering its own culinary profile.Smaller sizes deliver a sharper taste, while larger capers develop more body and complexity.At BestCapers, we handle all varieties, from tiny Lilliputs to meaty Horse Capers and juicy Caperberries, ensuring clients receive the perfect fit for every recipe.

Preserving the True Mediterranean Spirit

Our mission goes beyond export — it’s about preserving a cultural legacy.We work with regional cooperatives who continue to farm capers in the same way their ancestors did:hand-picking, brining with sea salt, and drying under the Aegean sun.This approach protects biodiversity, supports local economies, and ensures authenticity in every jar.

From the Mediterranean to the World

Today, BestCapers by Tuna Sourcing proudly brings authentic Mediterranean capers to kitchens and manufacturers around the globe.Whether for bulk import, private label production, or gourmet retail, our clients trust us for quality, consistency, and a story rooted in tradition.

Capers are more than an ingredient — they are a Mediterranean philosophy in edible form: simple, sustainable, and full of life.


Discover the Mediterranean difference with BestCapers by Tuna Sourcing — your global partner for authentic, sustainable, and flavorful caper products.

📩 Contact us at info@bestcapers.com

 
 
bottom of page