From yogurt to yucca root, did you know that there are plenty of delicious and nutritious foods that start with Y? These surprising eats not only share the same first letter but represent some of the most flavorful and sought-after ingredients from around the world.
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Best Foods That Start With the Letter Y
If you’re looking to expand your food knowledge and become familiar with global cuisines, learning what starts with “y” is a great place to get started. Ready for a tasty journey? Read on for our comprehensive guide for all things edible beginning with Y!
Yams
Yam has reddish skin and is often ground up and used to make flour. This starchy vegetable has a mild, distinctive flavor, making it perfect for use in soups, stews, and curries.
Similar to sweet potatoes yams are grown in tropical regions and can be boiled, roasted, mashed, baked, and fried. They have a mildly sweet type of taste and can be found in Latin America as well as the Caribbean and South Pacific. They taste similar to sweet potatoes.
Yellow Bell Peppers
Yellow bell peppers are mild and sweet, with a slight crunch when raw. They are delicious in salads, salsas, and veggie fajitas.
Yogurt
Yogurt is one of the best foods that start with the letter Y. This dairy product is made from milk, and it can be enjoyed plain or flavored with a variety of ingredients for sweetness and texture.
Rich in protein, calcium, and probiotics, yogurt makes a nutritious addition to breakfast bowls, smoothies, and even baked goods.
How to Make Yogurt?
There are many ways to make yogurt. Try one of these recipes to get you started!
Yuca
Yuca is a tropical root vegetable also known as cassava with a flavor similar to potato or sweet potato. Grown in South America, the yucca or cassava plant is part of the tuber family.
Yuca can be boiled, fried, mashed, or even turned into starch. This edible tuber is an incredibly versatile food.
Yuca Chips
Looking for a tasty snack that’s also healthy? Yuca chips are a perfect choice! Made from yuca root yuca chips are a delicious treat that’s also gluten-free, vegan, and paleo-friendly.
Yellow Apple
Yellow apples are a popular type of apple with a delicious sweet flavor and bright yellow color. These crisp and juicy fruits are perfect for snacking fresh out of hand or storing in the refrigerator for later use.
Yellow Passion Fruit
Yellow passion fruit, also known as maracuja, is a tropical fruit with a sweet and tangy flavor. Grown in South America and Africa, the yellow passion fruit is used for juice or eaten fresh.
Yolk
Egg yolks are one of the most versatile foods that start with “Y”. Not only can it be used to make scrambled eggs for breakfast or deviled eggs as an appetizer, but eggs are also used to make cakes, quiches, meringue, and even custard.
The yolk is the part of the egg that contains fat and cholesterol – making it perfect for creating decadent baked goods that won’t break the diet! Learn how to freeze egg yolks here!
Yuzu Fruit
Looking for foods that start with Y? Why not try the citrus fruit Yuzu!
What Is Yuzu?
Yuzu is a tart, fragrant fruit commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It has a unique flavor that makes it perfect for use in sauces and marinades, as well as desserts like puddings and sorbets.
What Does Yuzu Taste Like?
With its distinct sour citrus flavor, yuzu is a fragrant and zesty addition to a variety of dishes and can also be eaten raw.
Yakitori
Yakitori is a Japanese dish made from grilled chicken on skewers. It can be prepared with either breast or thigh meat, and it is often flavored with a salty-sweet soy sauce glaze.
Yautia
Yautia, also known as tannier or manioc, is a root vegetable similar to sweet potato with an earthy flavor.
Grown in South america and other tropical regions such as the Pacific Islands, yautia can be boiled, fried or mashed just like potatoes to make delicious side dishes and soups.
Yautia is also known as Malanga or Taro.
Yeast
Yeast is a type of fungus that is used to leaven bread, brew beer, and create wine. This versatile food product can be added to baked goods or alcoholic beverages like kombucha for a natural source of probiotics and B vitamins.
Yellow Beans
Also known as wax beans, yellow beans have a pale yellow color and are used for both their flavor and their bright color in a variety of dishes. A versatile ingredient, yellow beans can be used to make soups, stews, salads, curries, and more!
Yakisoba
Yakisoba is a Japanese noodle dish that can be served either hot or cold. Made with flattened wheat noodles, yakisoba is commonly stir-fried in a flavorful sweet and salty sauce (sometimes Worcestershire sauce) and served alongside pan bread, red pickled ginger, mayonnaise and aonori.
Yakisoba has lots of ingredients from bean sprouts to cabbage to carrots and other colorful veggies. It’s a great low-fat, high-protein snack that is sure to satisfy your cravings for something savory and delicious!
Yuzu Kosho
Yuzu kosho is a spicy, salty condiment made from chili peppers, salt and citrus fruit paste. Often used as a dipping sauce or topping for rice, noodles or grilled meats, yuzu kosho can instantly add a bold flavor and kick to any dish.
Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire pudding is a traditional English dish typically served as part of the savory Sunday roast. Made from eggs, flour, milk and baking powder, Yorkshire pudding is a light and fluffy batter that is baked in the oven until golden brown.
What Does Yorkshire Pudding Taste Like?
Yorkshire pudding has a delicate, slightly eggy flavor that pairs well with rich, savory meats and lots of gravy. With its airy texture and satisfying flavor, Yorkshire Pudding is one of the ultimate comfort foods that start with Y.
Yam Croquettes
A popular vegetarian appetizer, yam croquettes are made from seasoned mashed yams that are shaped into balls and coated in breadcrumbs before being deep-fried.
With their crispy exterior and soft center, yam croquettes make a delicious snack or appetizer that is perfect for any occasion!
Yuca Con Mojo (Cuban Garlic-Cilantro Sauce)
A traditional Cuban dish, yuca con mojo is made from boiled cassava root that is then served with garlic-cilantro sauce. This simple and delicious dish has a rich flavor profile that makes it perfect for pairing with meaty main dishes or enjoying on its own.
Yellow Curry Paste
Looking for a flavorful way to add some spice to your next dish? Try using yellow curry paste! Made from a blend of fragrant and spicy ingredients like galangal, lemongrass, turmeric, cumin and more, this unique ingredient can be used to create a variety of mouthwatering curries.
Yellowfin Tuna Tartare
Yellowfin Tuna comes from the tropical and subtropical oceans. Yellowfin Tuna Tartare is made of raw tuna, salt, finely cut onion, and other spices.
With its firm texture and mild flavor, yellowfin tuna is a popular choice for dishes like tartare. Due to its many health benefits, including high levels of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, yellowfin tuna is often considered an “in” food among health-conscious eaters.
Yukon Gold Potatoes
With their distinctive buttery flavor and creamy texture, Yukon gold potatoes are a popular choice for many different dishes.
Yaya Burgers
Looking for a fun and unique twist on the classic hamburger? Yaya burgers are a delicious fusion of Latin American and Asian flavors, featuring ground chicken patties seasoned with cumin, soy sauce, and more.
Yellowtail Sashimi
Yellowtail sashimi is a classic Japanese delicacy made from raw, thinly sliced yellowtail fish. With its thick and juicy texture, yellowtail sashimi has a delicate flavor that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of wasabi and soy sauce.
Yellow Eye Bean
Yellow eye beans are a type of small, creamy white bean that is commonly used in Southern and soul food cooking. These delicious legumes are a great source of protein and fiber, making them an excellent addition to any meal.
Try adding yellow-eyed beans to your next salad or soup for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition! Yellow beans add depth to dishes and are a great way to add variety to your weekly meals.
Yellow eye beans are closely related to the kidney beans family and are a staple ingredient in Southern and soul food cooking.
Yogurt Bark
Looking for a fun and healthy dessert option? Try yogurt bark! Made by layering your favorite flavors of Greek or plain yogurt with fresh fruit, honey, seeds and more, yogurt bark is a delicious treat that you can feel good about eating.
Yiros
Yiros is a popular Greek dish made from marinated meat that is shaped like a skewer and cooked on an open flame. Typically served with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, shredded lettuce and salad ingredients, yiros make a satisfying meal or snack that can be enjoyed any time of the day.
Yokan
Yokan is a traditional Japanese dessert made from red bean paste, agar and sugar. This sweet treat has a soft, jelly-like texture and can be enjoyed on its own or served with other desserts like ice cream or cake.
Yokan can also be made from white bean paste and tastes just as delicious. With its rich, sweet flavor and satisfying texture, yokan is a favorite dessert for many food lovers and is often paired with green tea.
Yemeni Salta Soup
A popular dish from the Middle East, Yemeni salta soup is a hearty and flavorful stew made from meat and vegetables. This simple yet satisfying soup is often topped with freshly grated coconut for an added punch of flavor and nutrition.
Whether you are craving something savory or sweet, Yemeni salta soup is sure to satisfy any appetite!
Yarok (Israeli Fresh Herb Salad)
Yarok, or Israeli fresh herb salad, is a vibrant and flavor-packed dish made from tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, parsley and more. This simple yet satisfying side dish is the perfect way to add some bright flavors and fresh ingredients to your next meal.
Looking for a quick and easy way to jazz up your lunch or dinner? Give Yarok a try and see how delicious healthy eating can be!
Yangmei
Yangmei, also known as bayberry or red bayberry, is a small berry found in China and Japan. These tart fruits are often used to make jams, juices, teas, and more.
Yang Chow Fried Rice
A popular Chinese dish, Yang Chow fried rice is a hearty and flavorful stir-fried dish made from rice, eggs, vegetables, shrimp, chicken and more.
Yellow Watermelon
Yellow watermelon is a juicy and sweet fruit that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Whether you are slicing it up to eat on its own, or adding it to salads or smoothies, this delicious melon makes a healthy and refreshing addition to any meal.
Yong Tau Foo
Yong Tao Foo, or stuffed tofu, is a traditional Chinese dish made from bean curd and other ingredients like fish balls and eggplant. These tasty treats are fried until crispy on the outside but soft and tender on the inside.
Yang Rou Pao MO (Lamb Soup Bread)
Yong Rou Mo, or lamb soup bread, is a traditional dish from the town of Xi’an in China. This hearty and comforting soup features chunks of tender lamb stewed with spices, Chinese wheat buns, and fresh herbs.
Looking for a warm and satisfying meal to cozy up with on a cold winter night?
Yanaguana Bowl
Yanaguana Bowls are a delicious and healthy meal bowl that is packed with fresh vegetables, proteins like chicken or tofu, topped with an array of sauces and seasonings. These flavorful bowls make a great lunch or dinner option any time of year!
Yaourti (Turkish Yogurt Soup)
Yaourti, or Turkish yogurt soup, is a simple and satisfying dish that originates from Greece. This healthy soup is made from yogurt, chickpeas, eggs and more and is the perfect way to start your day or enjoy as an afternoon snack.
Yali Pears
Yali pears are a type of Asian pear that is known for its sweet, slightly tart juicy flavor and firm texture. These delicious fruits are high in vitamins A and C and make a great addition to any meal or snack time.
Yellow Squash
Yellow squash is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in many different ways. This summer squash is packed with nutrients like vitamin A, potassium and manganese and is a great ingredient to use in soups, stir-fries or simply roasted for a healthy side dish.
What Does Yellow Squash Taste Like?
Yellow squash has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that is versatile and goes well with a variety of seasonings and sauces. This summer vegetable can be enjoyed in many different ways, from stir-fries to roasted sides or soups.
Yao Tie Bing
Made from flour and yeast, Yao Tie Bing (or Phoenix rolls) are a delicious Chinese pastry that is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert. With their flaky and crispy outer crust and soft, sweet filling, Yao Tie Bing make the perfect treat any time of day.
Yakgwa (Korean Honey Cookies)
Yakgwa are traditional Korean honey cookies that are made from wheat flour and sesame oil. These light and crispy snacks have a signature sweet taste and pair well with a warm beverage.
Yemiser W’ET (Ethiopian Spiced Lentils)
Yemiser W’et is a delicious and hearty Ethiopian dish made from ground lentils and spices like garlic, ginger, cardamom and more. This filling stew is often served over rice or paired with injera, a spongy flatbread that soaks up all the delicious flavors.
Yellow Tail Sushi Roll
Yellow tail sushi roll is a popular Japanese dish that features fresh and flavorful ingredients like tuna, scallions, avocado, and more. This refreshing meal is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a snack!
Yeast Rolls
Yeast rolls are a popular bread that is popular in many different cultures. Whether you are making them from scratch or using a pre-made dough, these delicious rolls are the perfect addition to your next meal.
Yardlong Beans
Yardlong beans known as asparagus beans or the Chinese long bean are green beans that are typically used in Asian cuisine. They have an earthy flavor and a crisp texture, making them perfect for stir-fries, salads and braised dishes.
Yunnan Ham/Prosciutto
Looking for a rich and savory meat to add to your meal? Yunnan ham, also known as Chinese prosciutto, is the perfect choice. This delicious pork product has been traditionally made in southwestern China for generations, and it features a rich flavor and tender texture that is sure to please any palate.
Yankee (Fried Plantain Dessert)
Yankee, also known as fried plantain dessert, is a rich and decadent treat that originated in Ghana. This scrumptious dessert is made by frying ripe plantains until they are tender and delicious, and it makes the perfect ending to any meal.
YU Choy Sum Stir Fry
Looking for a versatile and delicious veggie dish? Yu choy sum stir fry is just what you need. This tasty dish features fresh ingredients like yu choy sum (a type of Chinese cabbage), mushrooms, ginger and more, and it can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Whether you are serving it as a main course or a side dish, this stir fry is sure to please.
Ying Yang Rice
Ying-yang rice is a classic Chinese dish that features a combination of rice and black beans. This delicious dish is packed with flavor and can be enjoyed as a side or main course. Its unique name, “ying-yang,” actually refers to the two different colors found in this tasty meal.
Enjoy These Foods That Start With Y
Enjoy these tasty foods that start with Y. How many foods beginning with Y have you tried?
