Note- This post may contain affiliate links, we earn from qualifying purchases made on our website. If you make a purchase through links from this website, we may get a small share of the sale from Amazon and other similar affiliate programs.

I bet you have been waiting for a long time for an article on foods that start with A. While there are endless words that start with A, it is truly amazing to find out how many tasty, delicious and nutritious foods are out there that begin with our supreme and humble alphabet A.

Some of the foods that start with A are apricot, apple, aloe vera, acai berry, acorn squash, antipasto, American cheese, ackee, adai, applesauce, Asian noodles, artichoke, asparagus, arborio rice, alfalfa sprouts, anchovies, apple pie, and angel food cake. 

You might be thinking that you are already familiar with most of the foods, and is there any need to read the article further? You got it wrong. I have more in store for you. So, why don’t you keep reading and let us explore together the list of foods that start with A?

Let us start the article with the list of fruits and vegetables that start with A:

Let us kick off the food list that starts with A with a familiar fruit – the apricot. The apricot is a member of the rose family and is a close relative to peaches, almonds, plums, and cherries. It is a small fruit that is a drupe that comes in yellow and orange colors. It has a smooth, grainy texture and a sweet, tart taste.

Apricots can be baked, boiled, or sauteed for an excellent side dish. They are also used to make salads, parfaits, smoothies, bars, jams, canapes, granola, scones, sauces, and preserves. They are sufficiently rich in nutrients and antioxidants and low in calories.

Consumption of apricots can help improve eye, skin, and gut health. They also help in aiding digestion and in treating inflammation and diabetes. 

Achacha is a small fruit that is accurately known as garcinia humilis. It is a tropical fruit native to the Amazon forest that looks like a mango. It has a round, oval shape, thick skin with a protective rind, and edible white pulp. It has a sweet taste with a subtle sourness – no wonder the name achacha is translated to honeykiss in English!

Achacha is usually eaten raw when plucked from the tree. It can also be pureed and used in juices, desserts, salads, cocktails, beverages, tarts, sorbet, or gelato. It is rich in vitamin C, vitamin B, potassium, and antioxidants. Eating achacha can help in preventing the risk of heart diseases, heart attacks, and stroke. Achacha also helps in digestion and regulates blood sugar levels.

Acerola cherry goes by the names Guarani cherry, Barbados cherry, West Indian cherry, and wild crepe myrtle. Acerola cherry is a small tree native to the tropical region of the Western Hemisphere. 

The fruit from the acerola plant, called acerola cherry, is a bright red-colored drupe that comprises triangular seeds (these are not cherries, per se). It has a pleasant, sweet taste with a fragrant, astringent quality as well. Acerola berries have been used in modern and traditional medicine. Due to its health benefits, acerola is available as a supplement, such as liquid extracts and powders.

Time to talk about one of the most consumed fruits in the world in the list of foods that start with A. It is none other than apples!

Apple is an edible fruit that has around 7,500 cultivars. It is a fleshy fruit that comprises ripened ovary and surrounding tissues, which become edible. It is available in red, green, and yellow colors and varies depending on the shape, acidity, and size. 

There are wide varieties of apples, but I can give you the three broad classes under which they are categorized. Cider, cooking, and dessert varieties are the most commonly used apple varieties. Apple has a sweet-tart taste and a crispy, crunchy texture. It is rich in fiber and helps protect the body against blood vessels and heart damage. 

Acai berry is a reddish-purple fruit belonging to the acai palm tree, native to central and south America. It looks similar to a grape in shape and color. It is defined as a superfood that is rich in antioxidants with immense health benefits. It has a tart taste with a subtle earthy flavor that can be deemed as a cross between a blackberry or raspberry and dark chocolate.

Acai berry can be eaten raw and also as juice or concentrate. It has a rich purple color and hence can be used as a natural color additive in foods such as ice creams, jellies, and drinks. It is rich in fiber which helps in better digestion. It is also a good source of healthy fatty acids and amino acids. 

Let us talk about another nutrient-dense fruit in the list of foods that start with A. Avocado is a green-colored fruit with a big pit and leathery skin. It is native to America and comprises a large berry with a single seed. It comes in varying colors and sizes – the color can be green, brown, purple, or black, and the shape can be similar to an egg, pear, or sphere. 

Avocado has a nutty, buttery taste that varies based on the variety. It has a distinctive smooth and creamy texture making it ideal for use as a complementing ingredient in recipes. It contains vitamins C, E, K, and B6, riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and potassium. It can be used to treat high cholesterol and obesity and to improve thinking and memory skills.

Coming from the land of West Africa, ackee is a fruit that belongs to the family such as lychee and longan. It is also known as ankye, achee, akee, ackee apple, or ayee. It is a medium-sized fruit that has a curvy, bulbous appearance. It can be ivory or yellow in color with a firm consistency. It has a sweet, tannic flavor similar to avocado and almonds.

The taste of ackee can be fully relished when it is boiled or fried. Ackee is the major ingredient in Jamaica’s national dish known as ackee and saltfish. It is rich in vitamin C, and its consumption can boost your immune system and reduce inflammation. Being a good source of fiber, it can also improve the functioning of the digestive system.

Amanatsu is a citrus fruit that is native to Japan. It is also known as Natsudaidai, and Natsumikan. The word ‘amanatsu’ translates to sweet summer in Japan. It is an oblate-shaped fruit similar to a navel orange or grapefruit. It has an orange rind with soft flesh and numerous tiny seeds. It has a sweet and sour flavor with a rich aroma. 

Amanatsu is eaten fresh, and its juice and zest are also used as flavoring agents in cooking applications. It can be used to make beverages, cocktails, wines, and other fruit juices. It is a good source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, niacin, magnesium, and vitamin B1.

Amarena cherry is an Italian fruit that is grown in Bologna and Modena. The cherry is known for its rich color, tender, firm flesh, and mild, acidic, sweet-bitter taste. It is usually presented as candied fruit but also finds applications in other ways. It is used for making pastries, cocktails, desserts, and ice creams – the amaretto ice cream is unmissable!

Amarena cherry blends perfectly with spirits such as rum, vodka, and bourbon whiskey. It is considered a super fruit since it is rich in vitamin C, potassium, fiber, folate, magnesium, and iron and is devoid of fat, sodium, and cholesterol. It has a higher concentration of antioxidants than grapes, oranges, and plums. 

Asparagus bean is a type of legume known as the yardlong bean, pea bean, long-podded cowpea, Chinese long bean, snake bean, bodi, and bora. The legume comprises edible green pods with seeds similar to green beans. It is a variety of cowpea legumes and has visibly lengthy pods.

Asparagus beans have a flavor similar to green beans with a slightly nutty taste. These beans are popularly used in stir-fries in Chinese, Thai, and Kerala cuisines. These are rich in vitamin C, folate, magnesium, and manganese. Consumption of asparagus beans helps build better immune systems, boosts skin complexion, and enhances night vision.

Artichoke is a vegetable that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is an immature flower bud of a thistle plant considered a vegetable. The flower head comprises many flowers which stand on an edible base. Beneath the base lies the meaty portion of the vegetable, called the artichoke heart. 

Artichoke hearts have a distinctive nutty, earthy flavor with a soft texture. It can be baked, boiled, braised, grilled, microwaved, or roasted. It contains nutrients, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It helps in regulating blood pressure and improves liver and digestive health. 

Arugula is a leafy green vegetable initially used as a medicinal herb. It is also known as rocket, roquette, or rucola. It is now a major part of Italian cuisine. Arugula belongs to the brassica family as that cabbage and mustard greens. Arugula leaves have a rich green color, deep notches, and full, round, and pointy ends. 

Arugula leaves have a peppery, spicy flavor with a mild tart taste. The leaves are known for their unique freshness and are used in salads. When cooked, arugula leaves have a texture similar to spinach.

Cooked arugula leaves have a mellow flavor unlike raw arugula leaves. These leaves are high in antioxidants and glucosinolates. Glucosinolates help in protecting the body against certain types of cancer, such as the colon, prostate, and lungs.

Let us talk about a squash variety in the list of foods that start with A. Acorn squash is a variety of winter squash, also known as pepper squash. It belongs to the Cucurbitaceae or gourd family, which consists of pumpkin and butternut squash. It has distinctive lengthwise ridges with yellow or orange colored flesh.

Acorn squash has a sweet, nutty flavor with a watery, moist flesh. It can be sauteed, steamed, baked, or microwaved. It can be stuffed with rice, vegetables, or meat in savory dishes. Like other squash varieties, it is filled with antioxidants. Eating acorn squash can improve your heart health, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, and boost your skin complexion.

Arrowroot is a plant that belongs to the Marantaceae family. It is also known as Maranta arundinacea, maranta, West Indian arrowroot, obedience plant, and Bermuda arrowroot. The root and rhizome of this plant extract starch that is grain-free, gluten-free, vegan, and paleo-friendly. 

Arrowroot starch has a bland flavor and thus finds incredible use as a thickening agent instead of cornstarch. It is also a great source of protein and minerals. It helps in assisting weight loss, fighting diarrhea, and boosting the immune system. It is a perfect addition to a gluten-free diet.

Apart from culinary uses, arrowroot powder is used to make deodorant and dry shampoo. It is also used as a substitute for talcum and baby powder.  

Arracacha is a root vegetable coming to us all the way from the Andes, South America. It is a major crop in South America, and its starchy taproot is a famous food item. It can be found in curved, elongated, tapered, or gnarled shapes. It has a semi-smooth skin with starchy, firm flesh. It is available in off-white, purple, and yellow colors.

Arracacha root has a mild, sweet, nutty flavor similar to roasted chestnuts, celery, and cabbage. The root can be best enjoyed if boiled, roasted, or fried. It has a dense, firm texture, making it an excellent substitute for potato cooking. It is a good source of vitamin C, iron, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. 

Don’t be bewildered by the name aubergine – it is nothing but the eggplant we are familiar with. But, the article is on the list of foods that start with A. So, shall we talk about aubergine?

Aubergine is more commonly known as eggplant or brinjal. It is most commonly found in purple color with an oval shape and a bulbous flat bottom. It has a smooth, shining exterior and cream-colored flesh. It has a firm texture with a tender, mildly bitter taste. 

Aubergine tastes best when grilled, pan-fried, baked, broiled, sauteed, and roasted. It is also used as a meat substitute in pasta dishes, stir-fries, and burgers. It is rich in nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is high in antioxidants and low in calories. Adding aubergine to the diet will reduce the risk of heart diseases and control blood sugar levels.

Alfalfa sprouts are tiny shoots that emerge from the brown-colored seeds of the alfalfa plant. They belong to the pea family and have a nutty, mildly sweet flavor with a crispy texture. They are not to be confused with bean sprouts which are the sprouts of mung beans. 

Alfalfa sprouts are used for a crispy texture and moisture in various recipes. They can be used in sandwiches, toasts, salads, coleslaws, spring rolls, smoothies, and omelets. They are also used as a substitute for lettuce in recipes. They are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. They are also a source of phytoestrogens which help in preventing heart diseases. 

Time to talk about some of the exciting dishes, beverages, and seafood that start with A:

Antipasto is an Italian dish served as the first course of an Italian meal. The word antipasto means ‘before meal.’ It comprises cured meats, olives, peperoncini, mushrooms, anchovies, artichoke hearts, cheeses, pickled meats, and vegetables. It is considered an appetizer or a starter. 

The contents of antipasto can vary depending on the region. It is considered similar to French hors d’oeuvres and Spanish tapas. It has an intense flavor made of contrasting colors, flavors, and textures. Although a classic antipasto comprises many ingredients, a simple version of antipasto can just be about a few seasoned nuts or thin slices of prosciutto ham.

Asida is a dish that is a major part of Arabic cuisine but is now widely enjoyed in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The dish comprises a dough that is usually made of wheat, but that can also be made of sorghum, red millet, or corn. The dough is served as an accompaniment to meats, stews, fish, or vegetables.

Asida has a texture similar to fufu. The dish has variations depending on the region. In Sudan, asida is served with a savory tomato sauce, while in Libya, it is served with sweet syrup. Foods like asida are rich in fiber which can help you with cholesterol issues. 

Do you need an introduction to this food that starts with A, a favorite ingredient in grilled cheeses, cheeseburgers, and omelets? Let us talk about American cheese, foodies!

American cheese is a type of processed cheese that is not real cheese. It is made by blending cheddar and Colby cheeses with ingredients such as extra whey, milk proteins, vitamins, and emulsifying and coloring agents. The cheese that meets these requirements is American cheese – the most popular brand is Kraft Singles.

American cheese has a salty, creamy flavor with a slightly firm consistency and a low melting point. It has a smooth, creamy texture. The cheese is usually yellow or white. American cheese is the preferred option in recipes requiring the melting of the cheese. It is used to prepare cheeseburgers, grilled cheese sandwiches, cheese omelets, and quesadillas.  

Ever been to southern Asia and found yourself relishing something called dosa? We will talk about a variety of dosa in the list of foods that start with A.

Adai is a variety of crepe made using a batter made of rice and lentils such as toor dal, chana dal, urad dal, and moong dal. To the batter are added chilies and jaggery for a sweet-spicy flavor. Adai is a classic breakfast in Tamil Nadu cuisine, a state in India. 

Adai is a nutrient-dense, healthy, protein-rich food with a mellow flavor and crispy texture. It is usually served with aviyal, coconut stew, tomato chutney, or peanut chutney. Since it is made of various types of dals, it can offer you fiber and folic acid, help you with constipation, and regulate high blood pressure.

Applesauce is a puree made of either peeled or unpeeled apples. It is available in both sweetened, unsweetened and spicy versions. Apples are cooked with water, apple juice, or apple cider to create a smooth, chunky blend. Apple puree is the base for preparing apple butter.

Applesauce can be used to prepare cakes, muffins, oatmeal, cookies, donuts, pancakes, and quick bread. It works as a good substitute for oil and melted butter in baking recipes. Consumption of applesauce helps in boosting digestion.

Care to know a fun fact about applesauce? Astronaut John Glenn took tubes of applesauce, the first American to orbit the earth, due to its effect on the digestive system. 

The next food in the list of foods that start with A is appam, a classic breakfast item in South Indian cuisine. Appam is a type of pancake made of fermented rice batter mixed with coconut milk. Although appam usually refers to the plain appam or Vella appam, there are many variations – vattayappam, kuzhalappam, neyyappam, egg appam, idiyappam, and achappam are a few of them.

Appam has a subtly sweet flavor with a fluffy center and a crispy texture. It is served with coconut stew and vegetable, meat, or chickpea curries. Appam is a healthy food item rich in proteins and low in calories. Being a fermented food, it is a good source of vitamin B12. Consuming appam can help in treating acidity, gastric problems, and constipation. 

Asian noodles are more than food to Asians – they are also a part of their culture. Asian noodles refer to the varieties of noodles that are popular in Asia. Each of these noodles has varying lengths, representing longevity on celebratory occasions. They are broadly classified into wheat noodles, rice noodles, and glass or cellophane noodles.

Some famous Asian noodles are Ramen noodles, Udon noodles, Lo Mein noodles, Soba noodles, Chow Mein noodles, Vermicelli noodles, and Somen noodles. These noodles have a bland flavor mostly and absorb the flavor of the ingredients they are used with. These are used in stir-fries, hot pots, certain rolls, and soups. 

Ambuyat is a dish from Brunei cuisine made using a sago palm’s interior trunk. What is sago, you ask? Sago refers to the spongy core tissues or white solids of the rumbia tree. Ambuyat looks similar to tapioca starch and is the national dish of Brunei. 

Ambuyat has a bland taste and is usually eaten with side dishes, dips, and sauces. It is eaten using a chopstick, known as Chandan, and by rolling the starch and dipping it in the sauce. Since ambuyat is mainly derived from sago, it is indeed nutritious. It contains antioxidants and a good amount of resistant starch. 

Arborio rice is a type of short-grain rice that is named after Arborio, an Italian town. The rice is short, fat, and oval in shape with a pearlish-white color exterior. Once cooked, arborio rice grains are firm and creamy with a chewy texture. This rice is replete with natural starch content due to the presence of amylopectin.

Arborio rice is most commonly used in the preparation of risotto, a very famous Italian dish. It has a starchy taste and easily blends well with the flavors of other ingredients used along with it. It can be used to prepare risottos, puddings, arancini, soup balls, and paella. 

Aloo gobi is an extremely popular dish from the Indian subcontinent that is primarily made of potatoes, cauliflower, and spices. The words aloo and gobi mean potatoes and cauliflower, respectively.

Additional ingredients include turmeric, which is responsible for the vibrant yellow color, black cumin, curry leaves, garlic, ginger, onion, coriander stalks, tomato, peas, black pepper, asafoetida, and cumin.

Aloo gobi has a spicy, savory flavor and is eaten as a side dish to parathas, naan, bread, and rotis. The dish gets its flavor from the use of spices since no other liquid is used in the making. It can be garnished with coriander leaves or drizzled with lime juice.

Alphabet soup in an article on foods that start with A? Sounds fun, right? Let us see what this dish has to offer us.

Alphabet soup is a wholesome soup made of alphabet-shaped pasta, tomatoes, olive oil, white onion, garlic, salt, and chicken or vegetable broth. Vegetables and meats can also be added depending on the preference. The soup is a great accompaniment to bread or crackers.

Alphabet soup has a spicy, savory flavor. Since it is made of vegetables, meat, and other seasonings, it is incredibly easy to prepare and healthy. This soup is one way to ensure that your family members are eating their veggies without fail!

Seafood lovers, here I come with the first seafood in the list of foods that start with A. Ahi tuna is a type of tuna fish that is actually yellowfin tuna. It is one of the largest tuna species found in tropical and subtropical oceans. It has a dark metallic blue color with a silver-colored belly.

Ahi tuna has a mild, sweet flavor with a firm, dense texture. It is deemed less flavorful when compared to other tuna varieties. It is used in raw fish dishes such as sashimi. It is either cooked by grilling or searing.

The fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower the cholesterol accumulated in the body. Some recipes comprising ahi tuna are sesame-crusted ahi tuna, ahi tuna cakes, ahi tuna poke, and ahi tuna tacos.

Aligot is a French dish that is made using cheese and potatoes. It is traditionally made with Tomme fraîche cheese. But nowadays, Cantal,  mozzarella, and Laguiole cheeses are used. The cheese is blended with mashed potatoes, butter, cream, and garlic to create a fondue-like dish that is aligot. 

The use and texture of cheese determine the overall taste and quality of aligot. It has a cheesy flavor, for sure, with a stretchy consistency. Many deem aligot as a comfort food due to its rich, warm flavor and creamy texture. 

Amok trey is Cambodia’s national dish, also known as fish amok or trey amok. It is made of fish marinated with spice paste mixed with coconut cream, coconut milk, or eggs. Usually, the fish used to make amok trey is goby fish, snakehead fish, or catfish. But it can be replaced with cod, snapper, barramundi, salmon, whiting, or perch.

The mixture is then placed in a banana leaf container with the bottom containing morinda leaves, which is then steamed for some time. Amok trey has a rich flavor with subtle notes of coconut. The dish is mainly enjoyed during Cambodia’s Water Festival, which celebrates the flow of Tonle Sap Lake. 

Abalone is a marine gastropod mollusk that is found in the waters of New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Japan, and the west coast of North America. It is a large mollusk considered endangered and highly valued for its meat. It is deemed a delicacy due to its high cost of flavorful meat. 

Abalone is also known as ear shells or sea ears due to their flat and spiral-shaped shell shape. Overfishing has led to the extinction of this seafood, and thus there have been strict regulations with regard to its harvesting. Abalone has a salty, buttery flavor and a chewy texture. Before cooking, abalone has to be shucked, trimmed, and tenderized. 

Anchovies are a group of small forage fishes found in marine and brackish waters. These are saltwater fishes that are small in size and silver in color. They are a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine. These are easily recognizable due to their large mouths with upper jaws extending behind their eyes and pig-like snout extending behind their lower jaws. 

Anchovies are considered oily fish and have a rich, salty, fishy flavor and a pungent taste. They also have umami flavor due to the presence of amino acid glutamates. Anchovies are used to decorate pizzas, salads, sandwiches, sauces, rubs, dressings, and rubs. Consumption of anchovies rich in omega-3 fatty acids reduces blood pressure and the risk of blood clotting.

Have you heard of Angus beef before, and did you think it referred to a particular quality or grade of beef? Allow me to correct you.

Angus beef refers to the beef of a cattle named Angus, bred from indigenous cattle from Scotland by a man named Hugh Watson. There are two varieties of Angus – red and black Angus. Red Angus is not recognized well in America and is considered a rare breed. Black Angus is more commonly known as Angus.

Angus beef has a tender, juicy, meaty flavor due to marbling. Better marbling yields better-tasting beef with more flavor, moisture, and tenderness. It is a good source of iron and zinc, which helps in boosting metabolism. It also contains vitamin B 12, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein.

Abgoosht is a type of stew that is a part of Iranian cuisine. It is also called dizi, which refers to the stoneware crocks in which the stew is served. It is made of lamb, chickpeas, white beans, onion, potatoes, tomatoes, turmeric, and dried lime. Kidney beans and black-eyed peas are also used in place of white beans. 

Abgoosht is a one-pot stew that literally means meat broth. It has a rich flavor coming from lamb meat and potatoes. Assyrian abgoosht, Armenian abgoosht, and pity are some variations of abgoosht.

There is a specific way of serving abgoosht.The broth of abgoosht is first served in a bowl with small pieces of bread, called tileet. The other ingredients, such as potatoes, beans, chickpeas, and lamb, are mashed to a thick consistency and served along with the broth. 

Avgolemono is a broad term for soups and sauces in Greek, Arab, Sephardic, Jewish, Turkish, Balkan, and Jewish-Italian cuisine. The name avgolemono comes from two Greek words – avgo, meaning egg, and lemoni, meaning lemon. 

Avgolemono soup is a delicious soup that is made using avgolemono sauce. Avgolemono sauce is a blend of eggs and lemon juice. Avgolemono soup gets its authentic taste from the use of this sauce.

Apart from avgolemono sauce, long grain rice, onions, celery, broth, chicken, and celery can also be added to prepare avgolemono soup. Avgolemono soup has a creamy, lemony flavor and a thick consistency. The soup is used as a sauce and as an accompaniment to rice and meat.

Aguachile is Mexican for ‘little water.’ It is a Mexican dish made of shrimp, chili peppers, lime juice, salt, cilantro, and onion. It can also include raw vegetables such as cucumber. In this dish, shrimp is submerged in a liquid made of these ingredients. It is prepared in a molcajete, which is basically mortar and pestle.

Aguachile has a rich, spicy flavor. This raw seafood dish is usually served as an appetizer but can also be eaten as a snack and a dip for tortilla chips or tacos. It is often confused with ceviche, but both are different. In the case of ceviche, the seafood, which can be shrimp, lobster, or conch, is marinated with lime juice for several hours. 

Arroz a la Cubana is a rice dish popular in Hispanic cuisine. This Cuban-style rice dish is made of rice and fried egg. The modern recipe of Arroz a la Cubana consists of ground beef and onions, garlic, tomato sauce, diced potatoes, raisins, and diced carrots. 

Arroz la Cubana has many variations – in Spain, the dish consists of only rice, fried egg, and tomato sauce, along with fried bananas or plantains. It has a sweet, savory flavor with a rich, crunchy texture. 

Albondigas is a classic Spanish soup made of meatballs, green beans, onions, and chicken stock. Although the word ‘albondigas’ translates to meatballs in Spanish, the word ‘albondigas’ is inspired by the Arabic ‘al bunduq,’ which means hazelnut, which refers to their shape. 

Albondigas have a sweet, savory taste. Its flavor is more intensified with the addition of chopped mint. The soup base is created using sauteed onions, garlic, tomatoes, and broth. Meatballs made of ground beef or turkey and rice are put in the soup. Additional ingredients can be carrots, peas, and green beans.

The next food we will discuss in the list of foods that start with A is the name of the food and a village. Let us skip the ‘village’ part and move on.

Apaki is a Cretan delicacy made using cured pork loin and smoked with wood and a blend of herbs. It is said that this delicacy has a long history – people in Byzantine times used a similar method of preparation to preserve meat. 

In this delicacy, lean pork meat is marinated first with a mix of herbs such as oregano, thyme, rosemary, and sage. The meat is then smoked very slowly, which brings out the aromas of wood. Apaki is usually cut into thin strips and enjoyed as a meze dish. But, apart from that, it can also be used in salads and omelets paired with pasta or rice. 

Ready to talk about the national dish of Puerto Rico? It is none other than asopao. 

Asopao is a type of stew made using chicken, pork, beef, shrimp, other seafood, and vegetables. There are many variations to this stew. In the Caribbean locales, small bits of fried chicken, chicken skin, or coconut milk is added to prepare asopao.

Asopao can be best described as a cross between soup and stew. In a version of asopao, chicken and rabbit are cooked in sherry wine. This is a holiday dish, especially during Christmas. It is served along with plantain dumplings.

Axoa is a tasty dish coming to us from Basque cuisine. It is made of mashed veal, tomatoes, onions, and red Espelette pepper. The dish is also known as veal axoa. The origin of this dish, as well as the exact recipe, is unknown. However, word out there is that axoa was prepared and consumed during the market days in Espelette village, France. 

We are back to dealing with tuna fish once again. Albacore is a type of tuna that is also known as longfin tuna. It has a bullet shape with long pectoral fins. It can live for around 12 years. Albacore is a significant fish in terms of economy and is used for commercial and recreational activities.

Albacore has a mild flavor and a firm, meaty texture. The texture can be compared to that of a steak. Compared to other tuna varieties, albacore has a non-metallic and non-fishy taste. Like other tuna fishes, albacore is rich in protein, selenium, and vitamin B-12.

Alewife is a variety of herring found in the North Atlantic ocean and freshwater habitats. It is notorious for its invasion of the Great Lakes, becoming a threat to many native species. Being a river herring, it is a close relative of blueback herring and American shad. 

Alewife has a rich, umami flavor and a subtle sweetness. The taste of alewife is comparable to the taste of mackerel. There have been several threats to the survival of alewife, and hence it is a US National Marine Fisheries Service Species of Concern. It is a good source of proteins and omega-3 fatty acids. 

Amberjack is a game fish found in the Atlantic and the Pacific. There are many types of amberjack fishes – greater amberjack, lesser amberjack, Almaco jack, yellowtail,banded rudderfish, yellowtail amberjack, Almaco jack, and Japanese amberjack. It is a highly demanded fish for gaming and as a top quality fish food. 

Amberjack has a bold, buttery flavor which can be described as a blend of mahi-mahi and tuna. The texture of amberjack is comparable to that of swordfish. It can be boiled, baked, grilled, pan-fried, and smoked. It is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which helps in boosting cardiovascular health. It also contains vitamin A which is important for better eyesight and developing strong bones and teeth. 

Atlantic oyster, also known as American oyster, or East Coast oyster, is a fish found along eastern North America. It is cited as a filter feeder since it helps filter the water. It has an oval-shaped shell with smooth edges. This shell has a cup shape and is also known as an American cupped oyster. 

Atlantic oyster has a unique, salty, briny taste with a meaty texture. It is low in fat and high in protein. It is also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins D and B12. It is also a good source of minerals such as iron, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium, manganese, and copper.

Did you think I forgot to mention beverages in the foods that start with A? You bet not! I have amaretto for you!

Amaretto is an Italian liqueur made of apricot kernels, bitter almonds, and peach stones or almonds. It forms an integral part of many cocktails and shooters. The name amaretto comes from the words amaro which means bitter, and etto, which means litter. Thus, amaretto translates to ‘little bitter.’

Amaretto has a sweet-bitter taste that can vary depending on the brand. In some brands of amaretto, you can also notice the taste of herbs and spices. It can be served on its own or paired with vodka, whiskey, and other liqueurs. It can also be added to baked goods and desserts. 

Atole is a Mexican drink made of masa harina, piloncillo, cinnamon, and vanilla. Sometimes, fruits are also added. It is a traditional drink that is served during several Mexican celebrations. Often, atole is served with tamales, another Mexican dish. 

Earlier, atole was made with water, but other ingredients were added over time. Champurrado is often confused with atole – there is nothing wrong with that. Champurrado is just the chocolate version of atole. There are different tastes of atole – it can be sweet, salty, spicy, or sour.

Avena is a non-alcoholic beverage made of stewed oatmeal, milk, water, cinnamon, clove, and sugar. Avena means oats in Spanish. Additional ingredients such as allspice, vanilla, nutmeg, ginger, and citrus peel are also used for extra flavor. 

Avena is a drink that is popularly consumed in Latin America and the Caribbean. A mix of water and milk is heated to a boil. To this mixture is added sugar and oatmeal. Once the oatmeal is cooked, it is strained out. Avena has a sweet taste with flavors of cinnamon. 

Now, we will talk about the names of snacks, condiments, and spices that start with A.

Agave syrup is also called agave nectar or maguey syrup. It is the syrup obtained from the agave plant, native to Mexico. The syrup consists of fructose and small amounts of glucose and water. It has a high concentration of fructose and hence is sweeter than table sugar.

Agave syrup comes in both light and dark varieties. Light agave syrup has a mild, neutral flavor and dark agave syrup has a rich, caramel flavor. It is labeled an added sugar because of the calories it contributes, although it is extracted naturally from agave plants. It is used as a sweetener in iced teas, cocktails, or baking recipes since it has a sweet flavor and can dissolve quickly.

Adzuki beans are commonly known as red mung beans. These beans are harvested throughout east Asia. Although red mung beans are the often noticed variety, these are also available in white, gray, and black colors. These beans have a nutty, sweet flavor and can be used in sweet and savory dishes.

Adzuki beans and kidney beans are often confused with each other, but both are different. Although they look similar, adzuki beans are sweeter than kidney beans and hence are used in desserts. Kidney beans are larger than adzuki beans and taste less sweet hence are used in savory dishes. Adzuki beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, potassium, folate, magnesium and B vitamins.

Ajwain seed is a fruit part of Indian spices and cooking. It also goes by the names ajowan caraway, omam, thymol seeds, bishop’s weed, or carom. Ajwain seeds resemble cumin and fennel seeds in appearance and taste, similar to oregano and anise. They have a fragrant aroma, rich flavor, and mild, bitter-tasting notes.

Ajwain seeds are available both as seeds and in powdered form, although they are mostly used as seeds in cooking. Since it has a bold flavor, it is used sparingly in recipes. Consumption of ajwain seeds can boost your digestive system, prevent the risk of infections, reduce blood pressure and provide relief from cough and congestion. 

Anise seeds, as the name indicates, are the seeds of the anise plant. It is one of the prominently used spices in Middle Eastern, Italian, German, Indian, and Mexican cuisines. It can be used as both ground and whole. The seeds are small in size with a slightly curved shape. They are brownish-gray in color and emit the aroma of licorice.

Anise seeds are not related to star anise even though they sound similar. Anise seed is also not the same as fennel seed, although they resemble each other in appearance. Anise seed has a mildly spicy taste with an aromatic flavor. The presence of the organic compound named anethole which is insoluble in water, gives a cloudy appearance when anise liqueur is used. 

Ash cake is a variety of cakes originating in Arabian cuisine. Also known as fire cake, this cake is baked over a layer of heated sand or stones. The cake comprises simple ingredients such as butter, flour, salt, baking powder, and water. But in North America, ash cake is made using cornmeal. 

In Europe, wheat and rye are also added in the preparation of ash cake. You can enjoy the ash cake alone or top it deliciously with butter, jam, honey, or maple syrup. It has a rich smoky taste due to the baking process involved. 

Alfredo sauce is a creamy sauce made of butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. These three ingredients are melted together to create the classic Alfredo sauce enjoyed generously with pasta dishes. 

The highlight of Alfredo sauce is that it totally omits vegetables and relies on dairy products for its enriching flavor. It has a rich, creamy flavor and a thick texture. To further enhance the taste, many chefs add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and garlic to the sauce. Alfredo sauce is best paired with fettuccine noodles.

The next sauce in the list of foods that start with A is agrodolce. Agrodolce is an Italian sauce made of sugar, vinegar, pine nuts, a blend of dried fruits such as golden raisins, and currant with vegetables like red onion. In place of sugar, reduced honey can also be added. Agrodolce is the Italian version of the sweet and sour sauce.

The type of vinegar that you add determines the overall taste of agrodolce. Red wine vinegar is mostly used to prepare agrodolce, although white wine vinegar works well too. Agrodolce has a sweet, tart, and tangy flavor and can be used as a condiment, sandwich spread, and topping. 

Allemande sauce or sauce parisienne is a condiment that is prepared using veal velouté, egg yolks and heavy cream. It is also known as German sauce. The French call this sauce the daughter of veloute, one of the five mother sauces. The sauce is seasoned with lemon juice. 

Allemande sauce has a creamy flavor with subtle hints of lemon and mushroom. It takes a lot of care and attention to prepare this sauce. The sauce perfectly accompanies chicken, veal, beef, vegetables, or eggs. It can be drizzled on grilled asparagus, chicken roulade, salmon, roasted Brussel sprouts, bacon-wrapped pork, and roast beef.

Do I need to introduce apple pie? The job demands me to do so, so let us talk about the famous fruit pie dessert in the list of foods that start with A.

Simply put, apple pie is a pie made of apples with its origin in England. Apples are mixed with sugar, butter, cinnamon, lemon juice, or nutmeg. It is one of the signature foods of the USA. Braeburn, Gala, Cortland, Bramley, Empire, Northern Spy, Granny Smith, and McIn.

Tart apples are usually used to prepare apple pie since the presence of pectin in these apples helps give a strong texture to the pie. Tosh is the usually preferred choice of apples for making apple pies. 

Fresh, canned, or dried apples can make apple pies. Apple pie is usually served with a topping of ice cream. Sometimes, cheddar cheese is also considered a topping for apple pie. It has a rich flavor of apples with subtle hints of cinnamon. 

Amygdalopita is a type of cake in Greek cuisine. It is made of ground almonds, flour, butter, eggs, and pastry cream. It is one of the desserts in Greek cuisine, similar to galaktoboureko, karydopita, and kadaifi.

To prepare amygdalopita, ground almonds and flour are mixed. To this mixture, creamed butter, sugar, and eggs are added. After the cake is baked, it is soaked in simple syrup before serving. There are many variations of amygdalopita – one of the versions includes no flour. In such a version, usually, citrus flavors are added for taste. 

Andagi or Sata andagi is a type of fried bun made of dough that is native to China. Santa andagi is simply known as andagi in Hawaii. It is similar to donuts and is made of cake flour, eggs, and sugar. These ingredients are mixed, shaped into a ball, and then fried.

Andagi is an Okinawan donut with a sweet taste and a crispy, golden-colored texture. It is a sweet treat that is enjoyed during many Hawaiian festivals. Cake flour can be replaced with all-purpose flour. 

An American variety of sponge cake, angel food cake is made using egg whites, flour, and sugar. To these ingredients is added a whipping agent such as cream of tartar. In the UK and Australia, it is simply known as sponge cake. 

Angel food cake is different from other cakes because it lacks butter and eggs. This makes it healthier than other cakes with high-fat content. It has an aerated texture due to the use of whipped egg whites. It has a sweet taste with subtle hints of almonds and vanilla with a crumbly texture. 

Anmitsu is a Japanese dessert made of agar jelly, red beans or Anko, and water or fruit juices. Additional ingredients include boiled peas and fruits such as peach, pineapples, and cherries.

Anmitsu is usually eaten after a spoon of sweetened black syrup is poured into it. It has a neutral flavor or very little taste. There are a few variations to this dessert. For instance, mitsumame is another Japanese dessert that is served without the use of red beans. Anmitsu uses ice cream or dumplings called shiratama dango as toppings. 

Aloco is an African snack that is basically fried, ripe plantains. It is also known as kelewele. Other ingredients include onion, tomatoes, and chili peppers. The ripe plantains are fried in palm oil. Aloco is popular street food on Ivory Coast.

Spices such as anise, cloves, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg can also be used for additional and enhanced flavor. Also has a sweet and spicy flavor and is usually enjoyed as a starter or side dish. Roasted peanuts are an excellent accompaniment to aloco. 

Akara is a kind of fritter that is popular in Yoruba. It is called akla in Ghana, kosai in Cameroon, or bean Akara in Sierra Leone. It is primarily made of black-eyed peas mixed with various seasoning agents. 

Beans are peeled and blended with peppers, crayfish, salt, and bouillon powder. The mixture is whisked until it becomes fluffy and airy. Diced onions are added to this mix and fried till golden brown in oil. Akara has a spicy, savory flavor with a fluffy, crunchy texture.

While serving, Akara is cut into two halves and stuffed with spicy mixes made of shrimp, ground cashews, palm oil, and other ingredients. Vegetarians enjoy Akara with tomatoes and hot peppers.

Aranygaluska is a classic Hungarian dessert that comprises balls of yeast dough. The words arany mean gold, and Galuska means dumplings, respectively. These are also known as golden dumplings or monkey bread. Balls of yeast dough rolled in melted butter first and then rolled in a mixture of sugar and nuts. 

Usually, aranygaluska has a sweet taste and is served with vanilla custard. Walnuts can be sprinkled, or butter can be used for glazing these dumplings. For a savory version of Arany Galuska, the balls of yeast dough can be seasoned with salt, olive oil, and pepper. 

Whew….was that an exhaustive read on the foods that start with A? I am positive that you learned many names of new dishes, snacks, and condiments that start with A, and I bet you are waiting to try them all some time. 

I have tried my best to get you the names of the most popular foods that start with A. That said, the list of foods that start with A is never-ending. So, why don’t you tell me the names of the foods I missed? See you soon with another article!

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

TheFoodXP is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. We also participate in other affiliate programs which compensate us for referring traffic.