37 Foods That Start With R

Welcome to an exploration of foods that start with R. From the myriad of cuisines that enrich our palates to the simple ingredients that become the backbone of so many dishes, the letter ‘R’ brings a fascinating range of foods to the table. 

Whether it’s a staple food like rice in many cultures, or exotic meats like rabbit that spark culinary curiosity, foods that start with the letter R offer a world of flavors, textures, and cooking possibilities. So, let’s dive right in and uncover the culinary gems that lie behind this seemingly ordinary letter.

Fruits and Vegetables that Start with R

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, turnips, and beets are underground plant parts that have been culinary staples across cultures. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, they are not only nutritious but also versatile, fitting comfortably in a range of dishes from stews to salads.

Radish

Radish brings a peppery kick and a vibrant red hue to salads and slaws. Beyond its common role as a crunchy, raw ingredient, it’s also great when pickled or even roasted. The root is rich in vitamins and can add not only flavors but also nutritional value to your meals.

Romaine Lettuce

Romaine lettuce is a staple green in salads, most famously in Caesar salads. Its long, sturdy leaves hold up well to a variety of dressings and its subtle bitterness can add complexity to a range of dishes. High in vitamins A and K, it’s not just a filler but a nutritious component of your meal.

Rosemary

Rosemary is a robust herb with a piney aroma and a complex flavor profile that includes hints of lemon and mint. It pairs beautifully with meats like lamb and chicken and is often used in Mediterranean cooking. Not just a culinary herb, rosemary is also known for its medicinal properties.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb is most commonly known for its role in sweet dishes, particularly pies and compotes, where its tartness is balanced by sugar or fruits like strawberries. However, it’s also used in savory applications and is rich in Vitamin K and fiber. Its distinct tartness can bring a unique twist to both desserts and main courses.

Radicchio

Radicchio, with its wine-red leaves and slightly bitter taste, brings both color and complexity to salads and grilled dishes. When cooked, its bitterness mellows, and it takes on a sweeter, softer character. It’s often paired with creamy dressings or blue cheese to balance its robust flavor.

Red Cabbage

Red cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable that brings a pop of color and a load of nutrients to the table. Whether enjoyed raw in slaws or cooked in stews, its earthy flavor and satisfying crunch make it a versatile ingredient. It’s also packed with antioxidants and vitamin C.

Raisins

Raisins are dried grapes that bring natural sweetness and chewiness to a wide variety of dishes. From oatmeal and cookies to pilafs and curries, raisins are more than just a snack. They’re also rich in fiber and antioxidants, providing a quick energy boost with a nutritional punch.

Red Bell Peppers

Red bell peppers are the sweet, ripened version of green bell peppers and they bring a vibrant color and a unique sweetness to a variety of dishes. They’re great raw in salads, roasted as a side, or stuffed with grains and proteins. Packed with Vitamin C, they add both flavor and nutritional value to your meals.

Proteins that Start with R

Rocky Mountain Oysters

Don’t be fooled by the name—Rocky Mountain Oysters are actually bull testicles, and they’re considered a delicacy in some parts of the United States. Typically deep-fried and served with a side of cocktail sauce, they have a taste and texture similar to calamari. It’s a dish that’s rich in protein and a conversation starter, to say the least.

Ribeye Steak

The ribeye steak is a favorite among meat lovers for its rich marbling and robust flavor. Sourced from the rib section of the cow, the meat is juicy and tender, making it ideal for grilling or pan-searing. A simple seasoning of salt and pepper is often all you need to let its natural flavors shine. Love steak? Here’s the difference between porterhouse and t-bone steaks.

Rabbit

Rabbit meat is lean and flavorful, often described as tasting like a cross between chicken and turkey but with its own unique notes. It’s a popular choice in European cuisines and can be prepared in a variety of ways including roasting, braising, or stewing. Rich in protein and low in fat, it offers a healthier alternative to red meat.

Rainbow Trout

Rainbow trout is a freshwater fish with a delicate flavor and flaky texture. It’s often grilled or baked and pairs well with a variety of herbs and citrus flavors. High in omega-3 fatty acids and low in mercury, it’s a healthy choice for those looking to add more fish to their diet.

Rack of Lamb

A rack of lamb is a show-stopping main course that’s often associated with celebrations and special occasions. The meat is tender and flavorful, commonly seasoned with rosemary and garlic before being roasted to perfection. Best served medium-rare, it provides a succulent, rich dining experience. Also, check out our post on the difference between lamb, sheep, mutton and goat and what do do with leftover lamb.

Rockfish

Rockfish is a versatile fish with a mild flavor and firm texture, making it suitable for a variety of cooking methods such as grilling, baking, and frying. Found mainly in the Pacific Ocean, it’s a sustainable seafood option that’s also rich in protein and low in fat.

Reindeer

Reindeer meat is lean, gamey, and rich in flavor. Popular in Nordic countries, it can be smoked, sautéed, or even dried. High in protein and low in fat, reindeer is a nutritious meat that provides a break from the usual beef or chicken.

Red Snapper

Red Snapper is a popular saltwater fish known for its firm texture and nutty flavor. It’s versatile and holds up well to a variety of cooking methods, including grilling and baking. Often served with tropical fruit salsas or simple lemon-garlic butter, it’s a crowd-pleaser and a nutritional powerhouse, rich in protein and vitamins.

Roast Beef

Roast beef is a classic main course, often the centerpiece of Sunday dinners and holiday meals. The meat is seasoned and slow-roasted until it’s tender and juicy, usually served with gravy and an array of side dishes. High in protein and iron, it’s a nutritious option that also delivers on flavor.

Red Drum Fish

Red Drum Fish, also known as Redfish, offers a mild, sweet flavor with a medium to firm texture. It’s often blackened or grilled and served with spicy or citrusy sauces. Abundant in the Atlantic and Gulf coasts, it’s not only delicious but also a sustainable choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Rotisserie Chicken

Rotisserie chicken is known for its juicy interior and crispy skin, achieved through slow cooking on a rotisserie. Seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, it’s a convenient and versatile protein source that can be enjoyed on its own or used as an ingredient in other recipes. It’s a time-saving option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Carbohydrates that Start with R

Risotto

Risotto is an Italian classic, a creamy rice dish that showcases the starchy arborio rice cooked slowly with broth. It is often flavored with garlic, onion, and Parmesan cheese, and can be adorned with a variety of proteins and vegetables. The end result is a rich, luscious dish that serves as both comfort food and an elegant centerpiece.

Rye Bread

Rye Bread is a type of bread made with a mixture of rye and wheat flours, resulting in a hearty, slightly tangy loaf. It has a dense, chewy texture and is often studded with caraway seeds for an added layer of flavor. Some people describe it as having a slightly sour taste. This bread is a staple in many European countries and works well for sandwiches, particularly those with strong flavors like corned beef or smoked salmon.

Ramen

Ramen is a beloved Japanese noodle soup dish that comes in various regional styles. At its core, ramen features a flavorful broth, Chinese-style wheat noodles, and toppings such as sliced pork, seaweed, and green onions. The complexity of the broth and the chewiness of the noodles make ramen a comforting yet sophisticated meal.

Russet Potatoes

Russet potatoes are the versatile workhorses of the kitchen, serving as the key ingredient in everything from fluffy mashed potatoes to crispy fries. High in starch and low in moisture, they have a mealy texture that makes them ideal for baking, frying, and mashing. Their neutral flavor acts as a canvas for various spices, herbs, and sauces.

Rice

Rice is a global staple food, versatile and essential in a multitude of cuisines, from Asian to Latin American. Whether it’s the aromatic Basmati rice used in Indian biryanis, the sticky rice of sushi, or the long-grain Jasmine rice often served with Thai dishes, each type offers a unique flavor and texture. Its adaptability makes it a fundamental ingredient, serving as a side or even the main event in dishes like risotto or paella. With its chameleon-like ability to take on flavors, rice provides an endless canvas for culinary creativity.

Ravioli

Ravioli are small pasta envelopes that encase a variety of fillings, from meats to cheeses to vegetables. Originating from Italy, these delightful pasta pockets are often served with a sauce that complements the filling. Whether it’s a rich meat sauce or a simple butter and sage drizzle, ravioli offers a perfect bite every time.

Rigatoni

Rigatoni are large, ridged pasta tubes that are a staple in Italian cuisine. Their substantial size and grooves make them excellent for holding onto robust sauces, from meaty Bolognese to creamy Alfredo. The pasta’s hearty texture and ability to hold sauce make it a popular choice for both simple family dinners and more elaborate culinary creations.

Desserts That Start with R

Red Velvet

Red Velvet is a luxurious dessert that’s a cross between a chocolate cake and a vanilla cake, tinted with a distinctive red hue. Often layered with rich cream cheese frosting, it’s a staple for celebrations like birthdays and weddings. The combination of cocoa and buttermilk gives it a unique, tangy flavor that’s unlike any other cake.

Rice Pudding

Rice Pudding is a creamy, comforting dessert made from rice, milk, and sugar. Often spiced with cinnamon or nutmeg, it can be served warm or chilled, making it a versatile option for any season. Its rich, velvety texture is balanced by the chewiness of the rice, offering a satisfying end to any meal.

Rolos

Rolos are bite-sized candies featuring a core of caramel encased in a chocolate shell. These confections are perfect for snacking or melting into baked goods for a gooey caramel-chocolate experience. They offer a delightful contrast of textures—crisp chocolate and soft, chewy caramel.

Russian Tea Cakes

Russian Tea Cakes are delicate, buttery cookies that melt in your mouth. Often made with nuts like almonds or pecans, these spherical treats are rolled in powdered sugar for a sweet finish. They are a staple in holiday cookie swaps and offer a subtly nutty flavor that complements the sugar coating.

Rainbow Sherbet

Rainbow Sherbet is a colorful, fruity dessert that’s lighter than ice cream but richer than sorbet. Often featuring a trio of flavors like raspberry, orange, and lime, it’s a refreshing palate cleanser or a stand-alone treat. Its bright colors and vibrant flavors make it appealing to both the eyes and the taste buds.

Rocky Road Ice Cream

Rocky Road is a classic ice cream flavor that combines chocolate ice cream, marshmallows, and almonds. It’s a textural playground in every bite, offering a mix of creamy, chewy, and crunchy elements. It’s the ultimate comfort food for those who want a bit of everything in their dessert.

Rum Raisin Ice Cream

Rum Raisin Ice Cream is a sophisticated flavor that pairs creamy vanilla ice cream with rum-soaked raisins. The rum adds a warming, complex note to the sweet ice cream, while the plump raisins provide a chewy contrast. It’s an adult twist on a classic dessert, perfect for those looking to try something different.

Drinks and Cocktails that Start with R

Rum

Rum is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane byproducts, such as molasses, or directly from sugarcane juice. It’s a versatile spirit used in a wide range of cocktails like Mojitos and Pina Coladas, and also enjoyed neat or on the rocks. It brings warmth and tropical flair to any drink, and its flavor profile ranges from sweet and fruity to dark and spiced.

Red Bull

Red Bull is an energy drink known for its stimulating effects, thanks to its high caffeine and taurine content. It’s often consumed on its own for a quick energy boost or used as a mixer in cocktails like the Jägerbomb. While not a traditional beverage for leisurely sipping, it holds a significant place in the realm of functional drinks.

Rosemary Gin Fizz

Rosemary Gin Fizz is a herbal cocktail that blends the botanical flavors of gin with the earthy aroma of rosemary. Topped with soda water for effervescence, it’s a refreshing and aromatic drink ideal for sipping on a warm day or as an elegant aperitif.

Rob Roy

Rob Roy is a classic cocktail similar to a Manhattan but made with Scotch whisky instead of bourbon. It’s a blend of Scotch, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters, often garnished with a maraschino cherry. This cocktail offers a harmonious balance of smoky, sweet, and bitter flavors.

Ristretto

Ristretto is a highly concentrated espresso that uses the same amount of coffee grounds but half the amount of water. This results in a stronger, richer coffee with a robust flavor and a velvety texture. It’s a coffee lover’s delight, perfect for those who appreciate a deep, intense shot of caffeine.

Root Beer Float

A Root Beer Float is a nostalgic treat that combines root beer with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The carbonation from the root beer creates a creamy, frothy top when it reacts with the ice cream, making it a playful and delicious beverage. This iconic drink is perfect for hot summer days or as a dessert substitute, offering both refreshment and indulgence in a single glass.

More Foods that Start with R

Relish

Relish is a tangy, often sweet, condiment made from finely chopped vegetables or fruits, usually pickled. It is versatile and can be added to a variety of dishes like hot dogs, sandwiches, or used as a dip. The sharpness and crunch of relish can elevate the flavors of a dish, making it a popular choice in many cuisines.

Reuben Sandwich

A Reuben Sandwich is a grilled sandwich that typically consists of corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian dressing, sandwiched between slices of rye bread. This sandwich is a symphony of flavors and textures, offering the salty and savory from the meat, creaminess from the cheese, tanginess from the sauerkraut, and the rich, spiciness from the Russian dressing.

Russian Dressing

Russian Dressing is a piquant sauce made from a base of mayonnaise and ketchup, usually spiced with horseradish, pimento, or chives. It’s a creamy, tangy dressing often used in salads or as a condiment in sandwiches like the Reuben. Its versatility and zest make it a staple in many American households.

Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta Cheese is a soft, creamy Italian cheese made from whey, a byproduct of cheese-making. It’s a staple in dishes like lasagna, cannoli, and a wide range of pastas and desserts. The mild and slightly sweet flavor of ricotta makes it incredibly adaptable, enriching both sweet and savory recipes.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a classic French Provençal stewed vegetable dish featuring ingredients like tomatoes, zucchini, and eggplants. It’s often flavored with herbs like thyme and basil. This dish is not just hearty and nourishing but also a celebration of vegetables, bringing out their natural flavors in a wonderful melange.

Ranch Dressing

Ranch Dressing is an American favorite made from a blend of buttermilk, garlic, onion, and herbs like dill. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor make it a versatile condiment, excellent for salads, dipping sauces, or even as a marinade. The combination of herbal notes and creaminess has cemented its place in culinary applications far beyond the salad bowl.

Roux

Roux is a simple yet fundamental element in French cooking, serving as the base for many sauces and gravies. Comprising equal parts fat and flour, this mixture is cooked together to various degrees of darkness, depending on its intended use. Whether it’s a blonde roux for a delicate béchamel or a darker version for a rich gumbo, the roux acts as a thickening agent, adding both texture and depth to dishes. It’s a cornerstone technique that has transcended its French origins to become a staple in kitchens around the world.

Red Pepper Flakes

Red Pepper Flakes are crushed dried red chili peppers, often including the seeds, adding a smoky, spicy kick to dishes. They are a pantry essential for those who love to add a bit of heat to their cooking. From pasta to pizzas, soups to stews, a pinch of red pepper flakes can dramatically enhance the flavor profile of a wide range of recipes.

Foods that Start with “R” FAQs

What are Foods that start with R?

Foods that start with “R” range from russet potatoes and radishes in the vegetable aisle to rabbit and ribeye steak in the meat section. You’ll also find rye bread and ramen in the grains and pasta categories.

What snack food starts with R?

A snack food that starts with “R” is Rice Krispies Treats, a popular marshmallow cereal bar. Raisins are also a handy and healthy snack option.

What starts with R at the grocery store?

At the grocery store, you can find various items that start with “R,” such as red cabbage, ravioli, and raspberries. You might also find ricotta cheese in the dairy section or rosemary in the herbs and spices aisle.

What breakfast foods start with R?

Breakfast foods that start with “R” include raspberry jam, which is often spread on toast, and ricotta pancakes, a fluffy alternative to the classic pancake. Rye toast and rolled oats for oatmeal are other breakfast options that start with “R.”

More Food Inspiration

Foods that Start With F

83 Foods that Start with P

Foods that Start with U

Foods That Start with T

Foods That Start With D

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