What are cucunci?
Cucunci are the olive-shaped flower buds of the caper bush, which are commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. These small, pickled delicacies add a tangy and slightly salty flavor to various dishes, including salads, pasta sauces, and fish recipes.
Why should you preserve cucunci?
Preserving cucunci allows you to enjoy their unique taste and texture even when they are out of season. It also provides the convenience of having them readily available in your pantry, allowing you to add them to your favorite recipes whenever you desire.
Salting methods for preserving cucunci
There are two primary salting methods used for preserving cucunci: dry salting and wet salting. Let’s explore each of these methods:
Dry Salting
Dry salting involves coating the cucunci buds in salt and allowing them to cure in a dry environment. Follow these steps for dry salting:
- Start with fresh cucunci buds. Ensure they are clean and free from any impurities.
- In a clean container, create a layer of salt at the bottom.
- Place a layer of cucunci buds on top of the salt, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Cover the cucunci buds entirely with a layer of salt.
- Repeat the layering process until all cucunci buds are covered with salt.
- Store the container in a cool and dry place for a few weeks to allow the curing process to take place.
- After the curing period, rinse the cucunci buds thoroughly to remove excess salt.
- Pack the cucunci buds in airtight jars or containers, covering them with olive oil for further preservation.
Wet Salting
Wet salting involves submerging the cucunci buds in a brine solution. Here’s how you can preserve cucunci using the wet salting method:
- Rinse the cucunci buds well to remove any impurities.
- In a clean container, prepare a brine solution by dissolving salt in water. Use approximately 3 tablespoons of salt per cup of water.
- Place the cucunci buds in the brine solution, ensuring they are fully submerged.
- Keep the container in a cool location away from direct sunlight.
- Let the cucunci buds ferment in the brine solution for about a week or until they reach the desired flavor.
- Once fermented, rinse the cucunci buds to remove excess salt and pack them in sterilized jars, covering them with olive oil for additional preservation.
Enjoying your preserved cucunci
Your preserved cucunci is now ready to be enjoyed! These flavorful buds can be added to various recipes or used as garnishes. Remember to store the jars in a cool and dark place for long-lasting preservation. With these salting methods, you can savor the delightful taste of cucunci all year round!