capers

Can anyone tell me what "non-pariel" means on a jar of capers? And how exactly do you pronounce it?

[nutcakes]

I hope someone knows the explicit answer for you--I'm not going to look it up because it means squat, nothing, nada.

Ok, ok I had the book out. From The Oxford Companion to Food, the non parielles are the smallest, followed by surfines, capucines, fines and capotes (now, have you ever had to choose price over quality in this regard here? Sounds like French grocers have an entire aisle for capers).

They also mention the large Spanish or Italian ones (popular recently in chic cocktail establishments in my nabe). Says they are eaten like olives, there.

So, since it means squat, having not seen a non-non pareilles, I would avoid using the term. If you must, and missed high school French, don't trust me, but I think it is: pareilles rhymes with Marseilles. Almost like Perrier water. And the non is: No (then round you mouth on the 'o' and form the 'n' without making a sound, just exhaling.



[This message has been edited by nutcakes (edited September 08, 2000).]

[Ruthy]

Literally speaking "non-pareil" means unequalled or,in the case of capers, almonds etc, the best quality, and, yes, it does rhyme with Marseilles!

[shroomgirl]

I always thought it was a size thing...have you guys fried capers to make crispy blossoms?

[cookM]

Originally posted by shroomgirl:
I always thought it was a size thing...have you guys fried capers to make crispy blossoms?

We used to fry the big capers, stem on. Dip 'em in batter and use as a garnish. Yum.

[chefjohnpaul]

Originally posted by shroomgirl:
I always thought it was a size thing...have you guys fried capers to make crispy blossoms?

Yes Shroomgal, one menu we did grilled salmon with crispy capers, chardonnay beurre blanc, and ratatouille. went over well.