The letter “J” might not be the first that comes to mind when thinking about food, but you might be surprised by the variety of delicious dishes that begin with this letter. From sweet treats to savory meals and international cuisines, this list of 25 Foods That Start With J will expand your culinary horizons and tantalize your taste buds. Get ready to discover some exciting new favorites!
Sweet Treats and Snacks
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Jelly Rolls: These cinnamon-sugar swirls are a lighter take on a classic treat, perfect for satisfying a sweet craving without the guilt. Using low-point bread and reduced-sugar jam makes them a healthier option.
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Jordan Almonds: These elegant candies feature a whole blanched almond coated in a sweet, crunchy shell, often pastel-colored. They are a delightful treat for special occasions or a simple indulgence.
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Jalebi: This bright orange, crispy treat is popular in Asia and Africa. Made from deep-fried batter soaked in sugar syrup, Jalebi offers a unique texture and intense sweetness.
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Jelly Bean Ice Cream: A fun and colorful dessert, this ice cream incorporates the fruity flavors of jelly beans for a playful twist on a classic frozen treat.
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Jello Cookies: These vibrant cookies get their bright colors and fruity flavors from Jello powder, making them a fun and easy treat to bake.
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Jaffa Cake: This delightful cake combines the classic flavors of chocolate and orange. Moist orange-infused layers are sandwiched with orange marmalade and topped with a rich chocolate glaze.
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Jawbreaker: A true test of your candy-eating endurance, these hard candies are layered with colorful sugar and designed to last. They offer a long-lasting sweet flavor.
Savory Dishes and Main Courses
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Jackfruit Carnitas: A delicious vegan alternative to traditional carnitas, this dish uses jackfruit to mimic the texture and flavor of pulled pork. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls.
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Jambalaya: A flavorful one-pot dish from Louisiana, jambalaya features rice, chicken, sausage, shrimp, and vegetables cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce.
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Jerk Chicken: This Caribbean classic is known for its bold and spicy flavors. Chicken is marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection.
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Jerk Turkey Jerky: A healthy and flavorful snack, this jerky is made with turkey marinated in a spicy jerk seasoning, then dehydrated for a chewy texture.
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Jambon Beurre Sandwich: This simple yet elegant French sandwich features ham and butter on a crusty baguette. Adding brie and arugula elevates it to a gourmet experience.
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Juniper Berries Salmon: Salmon fillets are infused with the woodsy aroma of juniper berries and a hint of citrus from lime, creating a sophisticated and flavorful dish.
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Jiaozi Pork Dumplings: These Chinese dumplings are filled with a savory mixture of pork, water chestnuts, and ginger, then pan-fried or steamed.
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Johnnycakes: These cornmeal pancakes are a traditional breakfast food in parts of the Caribbean and the United States. They offer a slightly sweet and corny flavor.
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Jalapeño Poppers: A spicy and cheesy appetizer, jalapeño poppers are halved jalapeños filled with cream cheese, often wrapped in bacon, and then baked or fried.
Soups, Stews, and Sides
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Jollof Rice: A popular West African dish, Jollof rice is cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with spices, creating a vibrant and satisfying meal.
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Jicama Chips: A healthy and crunchy snack, these chips are made from thinly sliced jicama root and baked until crispy. They are a great low-calorie alternative to potato chips.
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Jerusalem Artichokes: Also known as sunchokes, these root vegetables have a nutty and slightly sweet flavor. They can be roasted, mashed, or added to stews.
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Jota: This hearty stew from northeastern Italy features sauerkraut, beans, potatoes, and often smoked meat, creating a warming and flavorful meal.
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Jewish Rye Bread: A staple in Jewish cuisine, this bread is known for its dense texture and slightly sour flavor, perfect for sandwiches or enjoyed on its own.
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Jook: This savory rice porridge is a comforting and easily digestible dish, often served with various toppings like meat, vegetables, or eggs.
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Jojo Potatoes: These thick-cut potato wedges are seasoned and baked until crispy, making a delicious and satisfying side dish.
Drinks
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Japanese Plum Wine (Umeshu): This sweet and fruity wine is made from steeping ume plums in alcohol and sugar. It’s a refreshing drink enjoyed chilled or used in cocktails.
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Java Plum or Jamun Cake: While not a drink itself, Java Plum, also known as Jamun, is a fruit often used in beverages and desserts. This cake incorporates the unique flavor of Jamun into a moist and delicious treat. It pairs perfectly with tea or coffee.
This diverse list showcases the surprising range of foods that start with the letter J. From familiar favorites to exotic discoveries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, next time you’re looking for culinary inspiration, remember the letter J and explore the delicious possibilities it offers.
