The caper bush was already known to the ancient Greeks, but they did not use capers because they were said to cause severe bloating and the sharp capers were said to erode the gums. However, they were used as a medicine and probably entered the kitchen later.

Thanks to their tart, piquant and sharply bitter taste, preserved capers are used as a spice to enhance the flavours of sauces, salads, ragouts and fish. Fish eyes without capers would not have their eye and would lose their piquant taste.

Capers are of a warm nature and have a sharp and bitter taste.