56 Foods that Start with F

Welcome to this fascinating culinary journey exploring foods that start with F. From the humble French fry to the exotic flavors of fufu, the letter ‘F’ graces the names of some of the world’s most loved foods. 

Whether it’s staple ingredients, hearty dishes, or delightful desserts, ‘F’ represents a wide range of cuisines and culinary traditions. So, let’s dig in and discover the versatility and flavor that foods starting with ‘F’ bring to our tables.

Fruits & Veggies that Start with F

Fennel

Fennel is a highly aromatic and flavorful herb used in Mediterranean cooking. The bulb, stalks, fronds, and seeds are all edible and bring different textures and flavors to a variety of dishes. Often seen in salads, braised side dishes, and soups, fennel is also known for its digestive benefits. Its unique anise-like flavor can elevate a dish, offering both crunch and a subtle sweetness.

Fiorentino Tomato

The Fiorentino Tomato is an heirloom variety originating from Italy, specifically the Tuscany region. Known for its rich, complex flavor profile that balances both sweetness and acidity, this tomato is a staple in Italian cooking. It offers a meaty, juicy texture that makes it versatile for a multitude of culinary applications, from sauces and stews to salads and sandwiches. The Fiorentino Tomato is especially prized for its performance in classic recipes like tomato basil sauce, adding an authentic taste that elevates the entire dish. In addition to its flavor, this tomato variety is packed with essential nutrients like lycopene, Vitamin C, and potassium, making it a healthy choice as well. At the end of the day, it’s a delcious red food you shouldn’t live without!delicious

Fioretto Cauliflower

Fioretto Cauliflower is a unique and visually striking variant of the conventional cauliflower. It features delicate, elongated florets and a sweeter, more floral taste compared to its standard counterpart. Originating from Japan, this variety is often called “flowering” or “stick” cauliflower due to its appearance resembling a bouquet of flowers. Fioretto Cauliflower is perfect for grilling, sautéing, or even enjoying raw in salads. Its gentle flavor and interesting texture make it a star ingredient in a variety of culinary applications, from simple side dishes to more elaborate main courses. Rich in vitamins and minerals, Fioretto Cauliflower not only delights the palate but also offers substantial health benefits.

Fennel

Fennel is a flavorful and aromatic vegetable that’s beloved for its versatility. With a flavor profile reminiscent of anise or licorice, fennel can elevate a wide range of dishes, both raw and cooked. The bulb is crisp and can be sliced thinly for salads or roasted for a more mellow and sweet flavor. The stalks and fronds can be used for garnishes or as aromatic additions to soups and stews. Fennel is also high in vitamin C and fiber, and its seeds are often used as a spice or brewed into a digestive tea. From Italian sausages to sophisticated seafood dishes, fennel is a culinary gem that adds a unique, gourmet flair.

Fiddlehead Fern

Fiddlehead ferns are the coiled, young shoots of certain fern varieties and are a foraged delicacy in the culinary world. With a taste somewhere between asparagus and young spinach, they offer a unique flavor that’s a welcome addition to various dishes. High in antioxidants and rich in fiber, they are a nutritious option, although they must be cooked properly to neutralize potential toxins. They’re often sautéed in butter or olive oil with garlic, or can be blanched and added to salads and stir-fries. Their limited seasonal availability makes them a much-anticipated ingredient, often appearing on the menus of fine dining establishments during the spring months.

Field Blewit

Field Blewit is a variety of edible mushroom that can be found growing in grassy meadows and fields. The mushroom is highly regarded for its rich, nutty flavor and meaty texture. Often used in a variety of culinary applications from stir-fries to soups, its taste is both versatile and distinctive. Field Blewits are a great source of protein and fiber, offering a nutritious alternative to more common mushroom varieties. It’s essential to properly identify and cook these mushrooms, as consuming them raw or mistaking them for poisonous look-alikes could be dangerous. Field Blewits are a seasonal delight, usually appearing in late summer to autumn, adding a foraged touch to seasonal dishes.

Figs

Figs are a culinary treasure, known for their sweet and nutty flavor profile. These fruits, which can be enjoyed fresh or dried, have a long history in both Western and Eastern cuisines. Figs are a natural sweetener, making them an excellent addition to salads, desserts, and even meat dishes. They are highly nutritious, offering a good dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Whether you’re slicing them into a Mediterranean-inspired salad or incorporating them into a luscious dessert, figs add a touch of natural sweetness and a layer of complexity that elevates any dish.

Feijoa

Feijoa, also known as pineapple guava, is a fruit native to South America but now grown in various parts of the world. Its unique flavor profile combines notes of pineapple, apple, and mint. The fruit is rich in Vitamin C and dietary fiber, making it a nutritious addition to any diet. Feijoas can be eaten raw, scooping out the jelly-like flesh from the skin, or they can be used in a variety of culinary applications such as smoothies, salads, and desserts. Their tart and aromatic quality can also enhance chutneys and sauces, providing a tropical twist to traditional recipes.

Fava Beans

Fava beans, also known as broad beans, are a springtime treat often associated with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. These green legumes are typically encased in a thick pod, which needs to be shelled before cooking. Whether boiled, sautéed, or mashed into dips, fava beans offer a nutty flavor and buttery texture that pairs well with a variety of ingredients. Like fava beans? Try our recipe for air fryer butter beans.

Fuji Apples

Fuji apples are a crisp and sweet variety of apple, known for their long shelf life. Originating in Japan, they’re perfect for both eating out of hand and cooking. Their sugary flavor profile makes them ideal for desserts like apple pies and crisps, but they can also balance out savory dishes, adding a refreshing crunch to salads or slaws.

French Beans

French beans, commonly known as haricots verts, are a thinner, shorter, and more tender variety of green beans. They’re a staple in French cuisine and are often simply steamed or quickly sautéed to maintain their vibrant color and delicate texture. Their mild flavor makes them a versatile ingredient, fitting for both simple and complex preparations.

Fox Grapes

Fox grapes are native to North America and are recognized for their distinctive, musky flavor. These grapes are often used to make jams, jellies, and some wines. They can be eaten fresh, but are most commonly processed due to their strong, unique taste. These grapes have a resilient skin and are typically found in the wild, as well as cultivated in vineyards. 

Field Peas

Field peas are a type of southern pea often associated with Southern and soul food cooking. They come in various forms, including black-eyed peas and crowder peas, and are usually dried before use. These legumes serve as a rich source of protein and fiber, and they have a natural earthiness that pairs well with smoky and savory flavors, often cooked with ham hocks or bacon.

Fruit Salad

Fruit salad is the epitome of a refreshing and nutritious side or dessert, especially during warm months. A medley of colorful fruits like strawberries, blueberries, oranges, and grapes, this dish can be as simple or as elaborate as you choose. Often dressed with light syrup, citrus juice, or even a dash of mint for extra flavor, fruit salads offer a natural sweetness and a wide range of textures. They are excellent for breakfast, picnics, or as a palate cleanser between courses, and they pair well with a variety of dishes, providing a balance of flavors and nutrients.

Dishes and Recipes that Start with F

Falafel

Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, commonly served in a pita or wrapped in a flatbread. A staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, these savory treats are seasoned with an array of herbs and spices like cumin, coriander, and garlic. The exterior is crisp, while the inside remains tender and flavorful, often accompanied by tahini, hummus, or a yogurt-based sauce.

Frittata

A frittata is an Italian egg-based dish that closely resembles an omelet or a crustless quiche. What sets it apart is the cooking technique; it starts on the stovetop and finishes under the broiler or in the oven. Frittatas are a versatile meal option, perfect for incorporating various vegetables, cheeses, and meats, making it an excellent choice for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Frittatas are a great way to use up extra eggs.

French Toast

French Toast is a beloved breakfast staple made by dipping slices of bread in a sweetened egg mixture and then frying them until golden brown. While it’s popularly topped with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh fruit, the dish itself is a beautiful interplay between the crispy edges and the soft, custard-like center.

French Onion Soup

French Onion Soup is a hearty dish originating from France, known for its deeply flavorful broth made from caramelized onions, beef stock, and often a splash of wine. Topped with a slice of toasted bread and a generous layer of melted cheese, this soup provides both comfort and sophistication in each spoonful. Like this soup? Try our recipe for Mulligan Stew.

Fritters

Fritters are versatile, deep-fried morsels that can be sweet or savory. The base is usually a batter or dough that’s filled with ingredients like fruits, vegetables, or meats. Whether it’s apple fritters dusted with powdered sugar or zucchini fritters served with a side of sour cream, these golden-brown delights are irresistible.

Farfalle

Farfalle, commonly known as “bow-tie pasta,” is a type of Italian pasta that pairs well with a variety of sauces and ingredients. Its unique shape allows it to hold onto both chunky and creamy sauces effectively, making it a versatile option for salads, casseroles, and traditional pasta dishes. Try making Farfalle and topping it with our Olive Garden creamy mushroom sauce.

Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic Italian-American dish that features flat, ribbon-like pasta enveloped in a rich and creamy sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. This dish is a comfort food favorite, bringing together the luxurious textures of creamy sauce and perfectly cooked fettuccine in a symphony of flavors.

Frankfurt

Frankfurt, also known as a “frankfurter,” is a smoked sausage made from pork, beef, or a blend of the two. Originating in Germany, this sausage is a popular staple at barbecues and sporting events, usually served in a bun and often accompanied by mustard, ketchup, onions, or sauerkraut. Try our recipe for air fryer Italian sausage.

Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a universally loved dish featuring chicken pieces that have been floured or battered and then deep-fried. The result is a crispy, golden exterior encasing juicy, tender meat. Whether enjoyed during a summer picnic or as comfort food during the colder months, fried chicken is a crowd-pleaser that spans across various cuisines and cooking traditions. Here’s how to use up leftover fried chicken.

French Fries

Ah, the iconic French fries—crispy golden batons that have conquered the hearts of people worldwide. Made from high-starch potatoes like russets, these fries are often double-fried to achieve the perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. While often served as a side, they can also stand alone as a snack, sprinkled with salt and accompanied by a variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, mayo, or even something fancier like boom boom sauce. Though not the healthiest option due to the deep frying, their addictive taste makes them a staple in fast-food joints, gourmet restaurants, and home kitchens alike. Try our recipe for air fryer waffles fries.

Proteins that Start with F

Flank Steak

Flank Steak is a lean, flavorful cut of beef that comes from the abdominal muscles of the cow. Known for its beefy flavor and fibrous texture, it’s often marinated to tenderize before being grilled or broiled. Flank steak is commonly used in fajitas and stir-fries due to its ability to soak up marinades and its quick cooking time. Curious to learn more? Here’s the difference between flank and skirt steak.

Foie Gras

Foie Gras is a luxury food item made from the liver of a duck or goose. It has a rich, buttery, and delicate flavor that is usually served as a pâté, mousse, or in its whole form, often on toasted bread or alongside fruits or preserves.

Frog Legs

Frog Legs are a delicacy primarily associated with French and Chinese cuisines. The legs are often pan-fried or deep-fried and have a texture and flavor somewhat similar to chicken but with a slightly more delicate taste.

Filet Mignon

Filet Mignon is a high-quality cut of beef from the smaller end of the tenderloin. Known for its tender texture and mild flavor, it is often grilled or pan-seared and served with a rich sauce to enhance its natural juices. 

Fish

Fish is a highly versatile protein source enjoyed across various cuisines globally. It comes in numerous varieties, each with its own unique flavor profile and texture. From the mild and flaky cod to the rich and oily salmon, fish can be prepared in countless ways—grilled, poached, fried, or even served raw as in sushi. Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and other nutrients, fish is not just a culinary delight but also a smart choice for a balanced diet.

Desserts that Start with F

Fig Tart

A Fig Tart is a delicate dessert that beautifully showcases the sweet and slightly chewy texture of figs. Often layered atop a crumbly pastry crust and brushed with a honey glaze, this dessert is the epitome of rustic elegance, offering both sweetness and subtle tartness in each bite. Love a tart? Try our blueberry cream tart.

Fruit Sorbet

Fruit Sorbet is a refreshing, dairy-free alternative to ice cream. Made from pureed fruits and sweetened with sugar or honey, it delivers an intense fruit flavor and a smooth, icy texture. Perfect for hot summer days or as a palate cleanser between courses. You can even make sorbet with dragon fruit or guava!

Fudge

Fudge is a rich, dense confection made primarily from sugar, butter, and milk. Often flavored with chocolate, vanilla, or nuts, it’s a sugary delight that melts in your mouth. Its texture can range from creamy to slightly crumbly, depending on the cooking process. 

French Macarons

French Macarons are elegant almond meringue cookies filled with buttercream or ganache. These little delights are characterized by their smooth, domed tops and ruffled “feet,” offering a wonderful contrast of textures from the crispy shell to the creamy center.

Flan

Flan is a caramel-topped, custard-based dessert that has roots in various cultures but is particularly popular in Latin America and Spain. It’s known for its creamy texture and rich, caramel flavor, usually enhanced with a touch of vanilla.

Fruitcake

Fruitcake is a dense cake loaded with dried fruits and nuts, often soaked in spirits like rum or brandy. Despite its sometimes controversial status, a well-made fruitcake can be a moist, flavorful treat, especially popular during the holiday season.

Fried Dough

Fried Dough, or “beignets” in French, is a simple yet indulgent dessert consisting of dough deep-fried until golden and often coated in sugar. Whether served with powdered sugar, cinnamon, or even a fruit compote, it’s a treat that appeals to both the young and young-at-heart.

Frozen Yogurt

Frozen Yogurt offers a lighter alternative to traditional ice cream but still delivers on flavor and creaminess. Often available with a variety of toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, and syrups, it allows for customization to suit any taste preference. 

Frangipane Tart

Frangipane Tart features a creamy almond filling often accompanied by fruits like pears or berries. The almond cream perfectly complements the tartness of the fruit, all nestled in a buttery crust, making it a beloved choice for many pastry lovers.

Fritters

Fruit Fritters are pieces of fruit, like apple or banana, coated in a batter and deep-fried until golden and crisp. Often sprinkled with powdered sugar or drizzled with syrup, they are a deliciously indulgent way to enjoy your favorite fruits.

Frosting

Frosting is more than just the sweet, creamy layer that tops cakes and cupcakes; it’s the finishing touch that can turn a simple dessert into a showstopper. This versatile mixture, usually made from a blend of sugar, butter, and sometimes milk or cream, serves both functional and decorative purposes in baking. From buttercream and cream cheese to fondant and ganache, the types of frosting are as varied as the flavors (such a chocolate, vanilla or peanut butter) they come in, each offering a different texture and taste to complement the baked goods they adorn. 

Cheeses that Start with F 

Feta Cheese

Feta Cheese is a crumbly, tangy cheese originally from Greece, made primarily from sheep’s milk or a blend of sheep and goat milk. Its briny and slightly acidic characteristics make it ideal for salads, pastas, and as a topping for grilled vegetables or meats. The cheese’s texture and flavor profile can elevate any dish, offering a touch of Mediterranean flair. Try our recipe for our tomato cucumber and feta salad.

Fontina

Fontina is an Italian cow’s milk cheese that is known for its creamy texture and nutty, mild flavor. It’s an excellent melting cheese, which makes it a popular choice for fondues, sauces, and casseroles. Its smooth and slightly earthy undertones also make it enjoyable when eaten on its own or as part of a cheese board.

Frico

Frico is an Italian dish made primarily from heated cheese, often Montasio, that is cooked until it becomes crisp and lacey. Hailing from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, frico can include other ingredients like potatoes or even small amounts of vegetables, and is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer.

Fromage Blanc

Fromage Blanc is a French fresh cheese that is similar to yogurt but firmer in texture. Made from cow’s milk, it is mild, creamy, and slightly tangy, making it perfect for both sweet and savory applications, like desserts or dips.

Fromage Frais

Fromage Frais is a soft, unaged French cheese made from the whey that’s left after the production of other cheeses. It has a creamy, smooth texture and a subtly tangy flavor, making it a popular choice for use in both sweet and savory dishes, including salads, dips, and desserts.

Fondue

Originating from Switzerland, Fondue is a social and interactive eating experience that has gained global popularity. Typically, a pot of melted cheese is placed at the center of the table, kept warm over a small flame. Diners use long-stemmed forks to dip pieces of bread, vegetables, or even meats into the communal pot. There are also variations that feature pots of hot oil for frying meats or pots of melted chocolate for dipping fruits and sweets. Fondue brings an element of communal joy to dining, allowing people to share food in a fun and informal setting. Its versatility extends to the types of cheeses and dippable ingredients that can be used, making it a customizable culinary adventure.

Fourme d’Ambert

Fourme d’Ambert is a French blue cheese made from cow’s milk. Known for its cylindrical shape and unique mold veins, this cheese offers a creamy texture with a gentle, fruity tang. Its balanced flavor makes it an excellent addition to salads, cheese boards, or even melted over a steak.

Fourme de Montbrison

Fourme de Montbrison is another French blue cheese, similar in many ways to Fourme d’Ambert but with subtle differences in flavor and texture. This cheese offers a robust, earthy flavor and slightly crumbly texture, making it an ideal addition to hearty dishes or enjoyed on its own with a glass of red wine.

Fiore Sardo

Fiore Sardo is a variety of pecorino cheese from Sardinia, Italy, made from sheep’s milk. It is a hard and crumbly cheese with a smoky, nutty flavor profile that pairs excellently with fruits, bread, and a variety of wines. Its robust nature makes it suitable for grating over pasta dishes or for enhancing the flavors in a cheese platter.

Miscellaneous Foods that Start with F

Fenugreek

Fenugreek is an aromatic herb commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African cuisines. Both the leaves and the seeds of the plant are edible and offer a bitter, slightly sweet taste. The seeds are often ground into powder and used as a spice in curry blends, while the fresh leaves—called ‘methi’—are used in a variety of dishes like parathas and curries. Known for its digestive and nutritional benefits, fenugreek is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Its unique flavor profile allows it to add complexity and depth to dishes, making it a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet recipes.

Flour Tortilla

Flour tortillas are a staple in many cuisines, especially in Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes. These flatbreads are made from wheat flour, water, fat, and sometimes baking powder, rolled out thinly, and cooked on a griddle or skillet. They serve as the foundation for a plethora of dishes such as tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. Compared to their corn counterparts, flour tortillas are softer and more pliable, which makes them easier to fold and wrap, but they also possess a distinct, comforting flavor. 

Fufu

Fufu is a staple food in many African countries, made by boiling and then pounding starchy vegetables like yams, plantains, or cassava. The resulting dough-like consistency is served as an accompaniment to various soups and stews. Eating fufu is a hands-on experience; you pinch off a bit of the fufu, make an indentation with your thumb, and use it to scoop up the soup or stew. Its subtle flavor makes it an excellent canvas for absorbing the flavors of whatever it is served with.

Farro

Farro is a versatile ancient grain that’s making a strong comeback in contemporary kitchens. With its nutty flavor and chewy texture, it serves as a wonderful base for various salads, soups, and grain bowls. It’s a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, often used as an alternative to rice or quinoa. Nutritionally, farro is a powerhouse, rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like magnesium and iron. Its hearty nature makes it ideal for robust salads, warm winter soups, or as an accompaniment to grilled meats and vegetables. No matter how you choose to use it, farro adds a gourmet touch and nutritional punch to your meals.

Fish Sticks

Fish sticks, also known as fish fingers in some regions, are a universally loved comfort food consisting of white fish fillets that have been breaded or battered and then deep-fried or baked. They’re often served as an easy dinner option or as a snack, commonly accompanied by tartar sauce or ketchup. Kids adore them, but adults can appreciate them as well—especially when they’re homemade with quality ingredients. The crispy, golden exterior encases tender, flaky fish inside, creating a delightful contrast of textures. Besides being delicious, fish fingers are a convenient way to introduce a source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids into a meal. Whether you’re serving them at a casual family dinner or a laid-back social gathering, fish fingers never fail to satisfy.

Flax

Flax is a versatile plant product known for its nutritional benefits and multiple uses in cooking. Most commonly encountered as flaxseeds or flaxseed oil, it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. The seeds can be ground into flax meal, which is often used as an egg substitute in vegan recipes or as a nutritional booster in smoothies and cereals. Even as a standalone ingredient, a tablespoon of flaxseeds can be a potent addition to your morning routine. Flaxseed oil, while not suitable for high-heat cooking, makes a flavorful finishing oil for salads and grains. Beyond its culinary uses, flax also contributes to the textile industry in the form of linen. However, it’s in the kitchen where flax truly shines, offering a blend of health benefits and functional versatility.

Flour

Flour is undeniably one of the most versatile ingredients in any kitchen. Produced by grinding grains, legumes, or other starchy foods, flour serves as the backbone for a wide array of recipes, from breads and pastries to sauces and coatings. Different types of flour, such as all-purpose, bread, cake, and whole wheat, offer unique properties suited for specific culinary applications. Its adaptability and indispensability have solidified its status as a pantry essential.

Foods that Start with F FAQS

What is a food that starts with F?

A food that starts with “F” is French fries, a universally loved snack or side dish made from potatoes that are deep-fried until crispy and golden.

What snack food starts with F?

A popular snack food that starts with “F” is Funyuns, which are onion-flavored corn snacks. Another option could be fruit leather, a chewy, dried fruit snack.

What starts with F in the grocery store?

In the grocery store, you can find a range of items starting with “F,” including fruits like figs and Fuji apples, flours of various types, and even frozen foods as a category.

What meat starts with F?

A meat that starts with “F” is flank steak, a beef cut that is often used for grilling or broiling and is popular in a variety of cuisines for its lean yet flavorful characteristics.

What fast food starts with F?

Five Guys is a fast-food chain that starts with “F”, known for their burgers and fries. Another option is Fuddruckers, a chain that specializes in customizable hamburgers.

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Have questions or suggestions about these foods that start with F? Leave them in the comments below.