107 Foods Starting with J
Let’s jump into a flavorful lineup of foods that all start with the letter ‘J’, where each bite is a joyful experience!
1. Jucy Lucy
Meet Minnesota’s legendary cheeseburger with a gooey surprise. As opposed to the classic design, this creation has the cheese stuffed inside the patty, making every bite a delight. A must-try for burger aficionados.
2. Jalapeño
These vibrant Mexican peppers introduce a fiery element to dishes. From mild to intensely spicy, they add an electrifying kick, whether in salsas, stuffed with cream cheese, or as topping for delicious treats (such as the Jucy Lucy).
3. Jaffa cake
This beloved British & Irish biscuits combines three key elements: a light sponge cake base, a layer of fruity jam, and a coating of chocolate. There’s no better companion for a nice cup of tea.
4. Jam
Spread on toast, swirled into yogurt, filling delectable pastries and cookies, jam adds a natural fruity sweetness to so many meals and snacks. And here’s some jam-related trivia, if you ever wondered strawberry is the most popular jam in the Unites States, as well as the U.K.
5. Jerky
Jerky is a method of preserving meat dating back centuries. Native American tribes, for example, made pemmican, a form of jerky from buffalo meat. While beef is most commonly used, you can find exotic kangaroo or alligator jerky.
6. Jambalaya
This lively Creole dish blends vegetables, rice, spices, meats, and seafood in a rich tomato base. A true American classic, it’s a taste of New Orleans’ zest and Southern comfort, enjoyed during Mardi Gras, jazz festivals, or family gatherings.
7. Jackfruit
This tropical giant reaches up to 80 pounds (36 kg.) in weight and around 3 feet (90 cm) in length. It has gained popularity as a vegan meat substitute, mimicking the texture of pulled pork when cooked. Definitely one of the most trendiest exotic fruits at the moment.
8. Joulutorttu
This Finnish Christmas pastry stars in holiday celebrations. Shaped like a pinwheel (or star), joulurtttu is filled with sweet prune or plum jam, beautifully contrasting the buttery pastry.
9. Jasmine rice
This fragrant Thai rice is renowned for its enticing floral aroma and delicate, long grains. When cooked, Jasmine rice remains separate and fluffy, making it ideal for dishes like Chicken Adobe or Coconut Rice.
10. Jellyfish
This an unusual but intriguing delicacy is consumed in some Asian cuisines. Typically prepared by marinating and slicing, it offers a unique texture – crunchy yet gelatinous. It is known for having a mild flavor and absorbing the taste of accompanying seasonings.
11. Jiaozi
Jiaozi is one of China’s most popular foods. These Chinese dumplings symbolize togetherness and fortune. Jiaozi-making competitions are held during the Lunar New Year festivities to see who can make the most dumplings in a set amount of time.
12. Jicama
Jicama, or Mexican turnip, is a versatile root vegetable that offers a crisp, refreshing crunch and a mildly sweet flavor. It is mostly eaten raw in salads and slaws, and, in Mexico, it is often served with lime and chili powder.
13. Jollof rice
Jollof rice is an aromatic West African dish that features rice cooked in a tomato-based sauce, infused with spices, vegetables, and meat or seafood. Nigeria and Ghana have a famous (and friendly) rivalry referred to as the Jollof Wars.
14. Jalebi
If you’re in India and craving a sweet treat, stop by almost any street stall and you will find tasty Jalebi on sale. They are luscious deep-fried dough spirals soaked in saffron-infused syrup and are especially popular during Diwali.
15. Jellybeans
President Ronald Reagan had a well-known fondness for these chewy candies, and they were a staple in the Oval Office during his presidency. In fact, Jelly Belly created a blueberry-flavored jellybean just for him.
16. Jardinière
Gardener in French, the term reflects the use of an assortment of fresh vegetables in cooking. French chefs regularly make these recipes to complement proteins like chicken, fish, or lamb.
17. Jajangmyeon
One of the most popular takeout dishes in South Korea, this pairs wheat noodles with a rich black bean sauce, diced vegetables and pork or seafood. It is a symbolic dish for single people on Black Day (April 14th).
18. Jonagold apples
A cross between the Jonathan and Golden Delicious, this apple has a sweet-tart flavor, firm texture, and a beautiful red and gold blush. They are particularly juicy and commonly used for ciders.
19. Johnnycake
This is probably one of the oldest American food traditions, going back to the Indigenous peoples of North America who prepared flatbreads from cornmeal. It is similar to arepas in Latin America and cornbread in the Southern United States
20. Jaggery
Often perceived as a healthier alternative to refined sugar, jaggery has a distinctive and complex taste, characterized by rich caramel and molasses notes. It is minimally processed and relatively eco-friendly to produce.
21. Jelly
This wobbly, gelatin-based delight is available in a rainbow of flavors and has become an iconic part of American food culture. The mid-20th century saw a dessert mold craze, with various shapes and designs, especially for parties.
22. Japanese eggplant
Also known as nasu in Japan, this is a slender, elongated variety known for its tender, thin skin and sweet, mild flavor. Great for stir-fries, grilling, and roasting.
23. Jalfrezi
A spicy curry with Bollywood fame. It’s quick and easy to make, commonly using leftover meat or vegetables, and the vegetarian versions are just as flavorful. Serve with some basmati rice and naan.
24. Jing Leed
Don’t turn you nose up until you try it, or rather them. Jing leed is a unique and daring delicacy found in Thailand consisting of various edible insects such as crickets, grasshoppers, or bamboo worms, fried and seasoned.
25. Jujubes
Small, reddish-brown fruits with a sweet, date-like flavor, they have been cultivated in China for over 4,000 years. Jujube extract is sometimes used in cosmetics and skincare products due to its antioxidant properties and potential benefits for skin health.
26. Jeongol
This is a traditional Korean hot pot or stew known for its hearty and communal nature. As the ingredients cook in an aromatic broth right in front of you, take the time and engage in some casual conversation.
27. Jordan almonds
In this case, jordan does not refer to the country but to the French word jardin, meaning garden, hinting at a garden variety of almonds. You’ll likely see them gifted to wedding guests
28. Jibarito
This Puerto Rican-Chicagoan creation reimagines the sandwich with crispy, fried green plantains as bread. The classic jibarito typically includes marinated and grilled steak, though vegan options with grilled vegetables, black beans, or tofu are available.
29. Java plum
In some cultures, Java plum is considered a fruit that is good for overall health and well-being. It is often eaten during the summer months to combat heat-related issues.
30. Jam Roly-Poly
In the past, this was a common dessert served in British school cafeterias. A suet sponge is spread with jam (raspberry or strawberry), rolled up into a log shape, then steamed or baked.
31. Jenever
The precursor to modern gin, this has its roots in the late 16th century when Dutch distillers began experimenting with malt wine and juniper berries to create a medicinal spirit. Increasingly popular now with craft brewers.
32. Jerusalem kugel
This baked pudding is made from egg noodles, sugar, and sometimes raisins, cinnamon, vanilla, or even cottage cheese for added creaminess. It is part of the Ashkenazi Jewish culinary tradition.
33. Jimbu
Known for its strong and pungent aroma, jimbu is often described as a combination of onion, garlic, and chives. It is a key ingredient in Himalayan and Tibetan cuisines particularly for lentil-based soups, stews, and vegetable curries.
34. Jianbing
Crepes for breakfast are pretty common, but this Chinese version is something else. It is like a thin omelet filled with fried wonton wrappers, ham, pickles, scallions, and cilantro. Served with hoisin or soy sauce, it’s amazing.
35. Jellied eels
If you’re interested in curious dishes, check out some restaurants in the East End of London. These are basically chopped eels in a savory jelly made from their own cooking liquid. A historical staple of working-class diets in Britain.
For more information on cooking eels, check out this guide.
36. Jalea
This delightful Peruvian seafood dish features a crispy medley of battered and deep-fried fish or seafood, often served with yuca and a zesty salsa criolla. It is frequently served in seaside restaurants known as cevicherías.
37. Jerusalem mixed grill
As the name suggests, this is a tasty Israeli dish consisting of various grilled meats, and sometimes vegetables, seasoned with Middle Eastern spices. It is served with pita bread and accompanied by tahini sauce, salads, and pickles.
38. Jokbal
Jokbal is succulent braised pig’s trotters slow-cooked in an aromatic blend of soy sauce and spices for tender, savory slices. A simple Korean delicacy, it is believed to improve skin elasticity due to the high collagen content.
39. Jibneh Arabieh
This creamy, soft white cheese is popular in Middle Eastern cuisine and typically enjoyed with fresh bread, olives, and herbs. It is used in some common desserts, such as knafeh (layered phyllo treat) or qatayef (sweet stuffed dumpling).
40. Jangajji
Perhaps one of the most underrated foods in the world is jangajji, tangy and crunchy pickled vegetables (or fruits). They complement traditional Korean dishes such as bibimbap or samgyeopsal (Korean barbecue) exceptionally well.
41. Jagerschnitzel
Similar to the classic schnitzel, this one is made with veal or pork cutlets and served with a rich mushroom gravy. The name translates as hunter’s schnitzel, as it’s said to have been a favorite dish of German hunters.
42. Jollof spaghetti
This is a delicious fusion of African and Italian cuisines offering a unique twist on both. It merges the concept of jollof rice, a well-known West African rice dish, with spaghetti with great success.
43. Jarlsberg cheese
This Norwegian cheese is a mild, semi-soft cheese with a distinctive nutty and sweet flavor. It features large holes (or “eyes”) and a pale yellow interior, and is often likened to Swiss cheese.
44. Juniper
Juniper is what gives gin that particular piney, citrusy flavor. The plant has needle-like leaves and small, berry-like cones known as juniper berries. Juniper essential oil is regularly used in aromatherapy and massaging.
Juniper berries is also a key ingredient in Scandinavian cured salmon recipes.
45. Jambons
No, we’re not talking about hunks of cured meat, but rather savory pastries filled with cheese and ham. In Ireland, you can often find jambons in convenience stores, gas stations, and takeaway shops.
46. Jowl bacon
This is fatty bacon from pig cheeks, highly regarded in Italian cuisine. It infuses dishes with rich, savory notes, particularly pasta recipes such as carbonara. In Southern United States, it’s smoked and used in dishes such as Hoppin’ John.
47. Jinhua ham
This prized dry-cured ham is aged for several months to a few years. It enhances a range of Chinese dishes – soups, stir-fries, dumplings – by adding a nice savory dimension.
48. Japchae
This dish features cellophane (or glass) noodles, a type of translucent, chewy noodle made from sweet potato starch, stir-fried with a medley of vegetables and seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil. A colorful and delicious meal that’s a hugely popular traditional Korean New Year’s dish.
49. Jeera Bhaat
From Indian, this translates as cumin rice. It makes a simple and comforting dish that is sometimes offered as a home remedy for digestive discomfort or as part of a light meal during illness.
50. Jägersuppe
This is a traditional German dish that translates to “Hunter’s Soup” and includes a variety of mushrooms such as chanterelles, porcini, or morels. It’s pretty common to find Jägersuppe as the soup of the day in German restaurants, especially during the colder seasons.
51. Jambon-beurre
Ham, butter, and a fresh baguette combine for this iconic French sandwich. It pairs well with a variety of beverages, including coffee, tea, or a glass of French wine.
52. Jambu air
Also known as rose apple or water apple, this is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. It has a crisp texture, resembling a cross between an apple and a pear, and mildly sweet, floral notes.
53. Johnny Marzetti
This American classic was made famous by Johnny Marzetti, an Italian immigrant who ran a popular restaurant in Columbus, Ohio. It gained a following during the mid-20th century, aligning with the era’s fondness for casseroles and one-dish meals.
54. Japanese cucumber
This slender, mild cucumber variety is often used in Japanese cuisine. These cucumbers have thin, tender skin and are typically eaten fresh in salads, sushi rolls, or pickled.
55. Jersey tomato
Grown in New Jersey, USA, this tomato is celebrated for having exceptional taste, juiciness, and a vibrant red color. A favorite in salads, sandwiches, and sauces, it embodies the state’s agricultural tradition as the Garden State.
56. Jamaican patty
Typically featuring beef and fiery flavors from Scotch bonnet peppers, the Jamaican patty is a spiced meat-filled pastry with a flaky crust. They’re a common Jamaican food item at parties or gatherings.
57. Juk
Porridge is such a wonderful meal for breakfast. It offers much needed energy and it’s light, and easy to make. Make this Asian version either sweet or savory, depending on toppings: pumpkin/sweet potato, or seafood/chicken.
61. Jansson’s Temptation
This traditional Swedish potato casserole is made with thinly sliced potatoes, onions, and pickled sprats (or anchovies), all layered and baked in a creamy sauce until golden and bubbling.
It’s a popular Swedish comfort food, especially for Christmas.
62. Jamón Ibérico
This highly regarded cured ham is produced in Spain and Portugal. One key factor is allowing the pigs to roam freely in oak forests, feeding on a diet of acorns (bellota) and wild grasses.
63. Julekake
This festive treat is rich with candied fruit, raisins, and often cardamom. Baked in a wreath shape, it’s a cherished holiday tradition, symbolizing the warmth and flavors of Norwegian Christmas celebrations.
64. Jameed
Often referred to as the soul of Jordanian food, jameed is made by fermenting yogurt until it becomes thick and tangy, then shaping it into small balls and leaving it to dry in the sun.
65. Jelly slice
This delightful and colorful Australian dessert consists of multiple layers, including a biscuit or cookie crust, a creamy or custard-like layer, and a vibrant jelly (jello) layer on top.
66. Jal Jeera
This refreshing Indian beverage is known for its cooling properties. It’s made by mixing spices such as cumin, black salt, and mint with water, creating a tangy and zingy drink. It is often served as a summer treat.
67. Jota
There is nothing better to warm you up on a cold winter day than a Slovenian stew, which melds sauerkraut, beans, potatoes, and bacon or sausage, into a hearty dish. Enjoy with crusty bread or cornbread. It’s a must-try traditional Slovenian dish when visiting this beautiful country.
68. Jablkový závin
Similar to the apple strudel, this awesome Slovakian dessert has pastry layers encasing a sweet apple filling with sugar and cinnamon, creating a warm, flaky delight. It is finished with a generous dusting of powdered sugar.
69. Jordbærgrød
Strawberries, a symbol of Danish summer, are cooked along with sugar and water for a jam-like consistency. Served warm or over yoghurt, it a sweet seasonal culinary tradition.
70. Jagertee
This aromatic concoction of black tea with rum, spices, and citrus fruits has strong ties to Alpine regions, where it is consumed after outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, or hunting to help warm up and unwind.
71. Jesuítas
Originating in Portuguese convents, where nuns and monks developed intricate pastry recipes, these puff pastries are filled with sweet egg cream, and topped with almonds and powdered sugar.
72. Jókai bean soup
Jókai bean soup is named after the famous 19th century Hungarian novelist Mór Jókai. For this hearty dish, paprika plays a significant role providing both color and a mild spiciness.
73. Jamoncillo
With a smooth and creamy texture, similar to fudge or caramel, jamoncillo is firm enough to hold its shape but soft enough to easily melt in your mouth. This popular Mexican candy is made with milk, sugar, and flavorings such as vanilla or chocolate.
74. Jordgubbspaj
Sweden is known for its high-quality strawberries, which are famous for their sweetness and flavor. So it’s natural to have incredible desserts made with them. Jordgubbspaj actually translates as strawberry pie, a popular summer treat.
75. Jallab
Date syrup, rose water, and grape molasses are mixed with water to make this sweet, aromatic beverage. It is garnished with pine nuts and raisins, providing a refreshing and energizing option for breaking the fast during Ramadan.
76. Joffre cake
This Romanian dessert was made to honor visiting World War I French military general Joseph Joffre. It is traditionally made with layers of chocolate sponge cake sandwiched with coffee-flavored buttercream and coated with a glossy chocolate ganache.
77. Jenlain
This renowned French beer brand is particularly celebrated for its Bière de Garde. This traditional French farmhouse ale is characterized by its rich, malty products, often with notes of caramel and fruitiness.
78. Jagdwurst
This German cold cut is often found in deli counters. It’s a type of bologna sausage made from finely ground pork or veal, mixed with spices, and sometimes, garlic.
79. Jägermeister
Created from a blend of 56 herbs, fruits, and spices, Jägermeister is known to most party goers for having a bittersweet taste. Intended as a digestif, it’s now part of many cocktails.
80. Jhalmuri
India has plenty of amazing street foods, and jhalmuri is a prime example. Muri, or puffed rice, is combined with various ingredients such as peanuts, fried lentils, chopped vegetables, and a blend of spices and chutneys.
81. Jersey breakfast
This breakfast consists of a bagel or English muffin filled with eggs, bacon, pork roll (also known as Taylor ham), sausage, cheese, and sometimes hash browns. Great not only for breakfast.
82. Juane
This is common dish in the city of Tarapoto within the Amazon rainforest. It’s a type of tamale made with rice, chicken, olives, hard-boiled eggs, and various spices cooked in banana leaves.
83. Julep
Julep is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby since 1938. Only four ingredients are used to make this cocktail: bourbon, sugar, water, and mint. It is served in silver or pewter cups over ice.
84. Jataí honey
Produced by a specific species of stingless bees known as “Tetragonisca angustula” that are native to the Jataí region in Brazil. It’s described as having a mild, slightly tangy, and floral taste.
85. Jabuticaba
What makes this unusual exotic fruit distinctive is that it grows directly on the trunk of the jabuticabeira tree, giving the impression of a tree covered in grapes. It is sometimes made into wine or liqueur.
86. Jingisukan
Jingisukan, or Genghis Khan BBQ, is a popular Japanese grilled dish that features thinly sliced lamb or mutton and various vegetables cooked on a special tabletop grill that resembles a Mongolian warrior’s helmet.
87. Jeera Aloo
These cubed potatoes are sautéed with cumin seeds in ghee or oil, along with spices like turmeric, coriander, and chili powder for a classic Indian side dish.
88. Jangiri
Jangiri is an intricate spiral or flower-shaped treat made with black gram batter that is deep-fried until crispy. It’s then soaked in sugar syrup and garnished with chopped nuts. It is enjoyed during Indian festivals.
89. Jiuniang
This sweet and slightly alcoholic (1-2%) pudding is made from fermented rice. Like other fermented foods, jiuniang contains probiotics that can benefit gut health and help digestion.
90. Jersey Royals
This new type of potato is grown exclusively on the island of Jersey off the English Channel. The unique maritime environment contributes to this potato’s distinct taste, earthy, nutty, and slightly sweet.
91. Jellied veal
In Sweden, this would be part of the Christmas smorgasbord, though its popularity is waning. Essentially, it is veal aspic, commonly garnished with hard-boiled eggs, capers, gherkin pickles, and fresh parsley.
92. Jachnun
This is a flaky pastry served with fresh grated tomatoes and skhug (spicy condiment). It is enjoyed on Sabbath mornings, often accompanied by hard-boiled eggs, and a drizzle of hilbah (a fenugreek-based sauce).
93. Jingalov Hats
This traditional Armenian flatbread is stuffed with spinach, scallions, parsley, and other fresh seasonal herbs. Jingalov Hats has inspired folk stories in Armenian culture, being associated with tales of love and hospitality.
94. Joululimppu
Since the Middle Ages, no Christmas dinner in Finland is complete without joululimppu or Christmas bread. Baking at a lower temperature for a longer time allows the sugars in the syrup and malt to caramelize.
95. Jodekager
These thin round Danish Christmas cookies are made from a buttery dough flavored with cinnamon and sometimes cardamom. They are topped with chopped almonds or pearl sugar before baking for a delightful crunch.
96. Jacket Potato
The simple baked potato, usually Russet or Idaho variety, is cooked with the skin on and accompanies savory meals. The choice of toppings makes it special – butter, sour cream, grated cheese, chives, bacon bits, or even baked beans.
97. Jazz Apple
This modern apple variety has a crisp texture and sweet-tart flavor. It’s a hybrid of the Royal Gala and Braeburn apple varieties, developed in New Zealand. They are typically red with distinctive yellow streaks.
98. Jian Dui
Sesame balls are a Chinese treat with a crispy exterior and chewy, slightly sweet interior. In Chinese culture, the word for “round” sounds similar to the word for “reunion”, so Jian Dui is associated with family togetherness.
99. Japadog
This new street food sensation originated in Vancouver, Canada. It combines Japanese aromas and ingredients with the classic American hot dog. Try the terimayo (with teriyaki sauce, mayo, and seaweed) or oroshi (daikon radish and soy sauce).
100. Jerk chicken
This famous Jamaican dish is known for its bold and spicy flavors. The chicken is marinated along with jerk seasoning (scallions, thyme, Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, garlic, ginger), then grilled until smoky and slightly charred.
101. Jjigae
This is a category of Korean stews characterized by a delicious broth, fresh vegetables, and meats or seafood. Kimchi jjigae, doenjang jjigae, and budae jjigae are popular variations.
102. Jelly tots
“Chewy in the middle, fruity on the outside”. Jelly Tots are small, fruit-flavored jelly candies that originated in the United Kingdom. They are typically soft with a sugary coating.
103. Jocón
This vivid green Guatemalan dish is a stew (or soup) made with tomatillos, cilantro, green chilies, and sometimes pumpkin seeds. It’s a festive dish, commonly served with rice and warm corn tortillas.
104. Jerusalem artichoke
Jerusalem artichoke has a misleading name as it’s in fact a type of sunflower native to North America. Their high levels of inulin, a type of soluble fiber, acts as a natural thickening agent in soups and sauces.
105. John Dory
John Dory, or Saint Pierre fish, is a prized saltwater species known for its flat, round shape and distinctive dark spot. Its mild, sweet, and buttery flavor makes it a gourmet choice in European cuisine.
106. Japanese sweet potatoes
This popular variety of sweet potato has a reddish-purple skin and creamy, sweet flesh. They have a distinct taste, slightly chestnut-like, and are often roasted, steamed or used in desserts.
107. Jodhpuri Kachori
This popular Indian snack originates from Jodhpur, Rajasthan. They are deep-fried pastries with a spiced flour dough filled with lentils, herbs, and sometimes dry fruits. Served with chutney, they offer a delightful combination of aromas.
If you’ve enjoyed this list, remember to “jam” these tasty treats into your recipe book for future culinary “jubilations”!
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