When you think about foods that start with the letter V, how many can you list off your head? Not up to 10, right?
Not to worry, in this guide, I’ll walk you through some of the top “V” foods that can become your new favorites, whether you’re a seasoned vegan, a vegetarian, or just trying to incorporate some new foods into your diet.
List of foods that start with V
1. Verjuice
This is a juice made from unripe grapes or sour apples. It’s often used in cooking as a mild alternative to vinegar or lemon juice, adding a gentle, tart flavor to sauces, marinades, or dressings.
2. Vermicelli
These are thin noodles made from rice or wheat, and are staples in many Asian and Italian dishes. In Vietnam, rice vermicelli makes a key component in dishes like Bun Thit Nuong (grilled pork over noodles). Alternatively, try it in an Italian setting with a light tomato sauce and fresh herbs.
3. Vidalia onions
Known for their mild and sweet flavor, Vidalia onions are a type of sweet onion grown in Georgia, USA. Packed with vitamin C and fiber, they’re perfect for caramelizing or adding a sweet, crunchy bite to salads. See why you crave onions often.
4. Vacherin
This soft, rich cheese comes in two varieties: French and Swiss. French Vacherin is perfect for baking; just pop it in the oven until it’s molten and then dip crusty bread directly into the cheese. It’s a winter delicacy that warms you from the inside out.
5. Vindaloo
Originating from Goa, India, Vindaloo is a type of curry that’s known for its fiery heat and vibrant flavors, typically made with pork, beef or chicken. It combines vinegar, sugar, fresh ginger, and spices, offering a complex taste that’s both sharp and satisfying.
6. Virgin olive oil
A staple in Mediterranean cooking, virgin olive oil is made from the first pressing of olives, without the use of heat or chemicals. It has a more pronounced flavor than regular olive oil and is excellent for dressings, dips, and to finish dishes.
7. Velouté
One of the five mother sauces in French cuisine, velouté is made from a light stock (like chicken or fish) thickened with a roux. This sauce forms the base for many recipes and can be customized with various herbs, spices, or cream.
8. Veal piccata
Veal piccata is an Italian dish consisting of sliced veal, dredged in flour, and pan-fried. It’s typically served with a sauce made from lemon juice, butter, capers, and stock or white wine. The result is a tender dish with a bright, tangy flavor.
9. Velvet beans
Also known as Mucuna pruriens, velvet beans are a tropical legume that is not only rich in protein but also in L-dopa, a precursor to the neurotransmitter dopamine. Like black beans, you can incorporate them into curries or use them as a meat substitute in various dishes. However, it’s important to cook them properly to reduce their levels of L-dopa, which can be toxic in large amounts.
10. Vine spinach
Vine spinach, also known as Malabar spinach, is a fast-growing, edible vine that’s perfect for hot climates. Its leaves are thick and fleshy, ideal for stir-fries or soups. They’re packed with vitamins A, C, as well as iron and calcium.
11. Vietnamese cinnamon
Also known as Saigon cinnamon, this variety is known for its exceptionally high oil content, which gives it a richer, more intense flavor than other types of cinnamon. It’s ideal for baking and is commonly used in pho and other Vietnamese dishes to add a warm, spicy undertone.
12. Vla
Vla is a traditional Dutch dessert, a type of custard that’s thicker than its French counterpart but more fluid than pudding. It comes in various flavors, such as vanilla, chocolate, and fruit, and is typically enjoyed cold as a comforting treat.
13. Verde sauce
This vibrant green sauce made from tomatillos, green chili peppers, and herbs is a staple in Mexican cuisine. Verde sauce can be used as a dip, a marinade, or a condiment to add zest to tacos, enchiladas, or burritos.
14. Vendakkai
Vendakkai, or okra, is widely used in Indian and Southern U.S. cooking. It can be fried, stewed, or added to gumbo. Known for its gooey texture and grassy flavor, okra is rich in vitamins and fiber.
15. Veggie chips
Made from various vegetables like sweet potatoes, beets, and kale, veggie chips are a crunchy, healthier alternative to traditional potato chips. They can be baked or fried and seasoned with herbs and spices for a tasty snack.
16. Valencia oranges
Valencia oranges are prized for their sweet and juicy flavor, making them a perfect choice for juicing. They are typically available in spring and summer, providing a refreshing citrus burst that can be enjoyed on its own or in various recipes, from salads to smoothies
17. Vodka penne
Vodka penne is a creamy pasta dish that blends tomato sauce with heavy cream and a splash of vodka. The alcohol enhances the sauce’s flavor, making it richer and more robust. This dish is a favorite in Italian-American cuisine for its delightful flavors.
18. Vatrushka
A delightful treat from Eastern European cuisine, vatrushka is a small pie or tart made with yeast dough and filled with cottage cheese, fruit, or jam. It’s typically enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, offering a sweet or savory filling encased in a soft, fluffy dough.
19. Velvet apple
Also known as mabolo, the velvet apple is a tropical fruit with a fuzzy skin similar to a peach and a creamy, mildly sweet flesh. It can be eaten raw, juiced, or used in desserts, bringing a unique flavor to exotic fruit salads.
20. Vitello tonnato
Vitello tonnato is an Italian dish that consists of thinly sliced veal covered with a creamy, tuna-based sauce. It’s often served chilled as an antipasto and is celebrated for its unique blend of flavors.
21. Vietnamese coffee
Vietnamese coffee is a strong, dark roast coffee brewed with a small metal drip filter and mixed with sweetened condensed milk. This method gives it a uniquely sweet and potent flavor, enjoyed both hot and iced, making it a refreshing beverage option.
22. Vlaai
Originating from the Limburg region of the Netherlands, vlaai is a pie or tart filled with fruit like cherries, apricots, or plums or other sweet fillings like rice or custard. It’s known for its thin crust and substantial filling, popular in celebrations and gatherings.
23. Vori vori
Vori Vori is a traditional Paraguayan soup with small, cornmeal dumplings in a rich, flavorful broth, usually accompanied by chicken or beef. The dumplings add a unique texture and taste to the soup, making it a filling meal.
24. Vatapá
This spicy Brazilian dish is made from bread, shrimp, coconut milk, finely ground peanuts, and palm oil. Vatapá is commonly served over rice or with acarajé, black-eyed pea fritters, making it a flavorful and hearty meal.
25. Vichyssoise
This French soup is made from pureed leeks, onions, potatoes, cream, and chicken stock. Traditionally served cold, vichyssoise is smooth, creamy, and perfect for a hot day or as an elegant starter.
26. Velvet tamarind
Velvet tamarind is a fruit encased in a fuzzy shell, revealing a tangy, sticky pulp inside. It is often eaten as a snack or used to flavor beverages and desserts in West African cuisine.
27. Valerian salad
Valerian, also known as lamb’s lettuce or mâche, is a small, tender green leafy vegetable. It has a nutty flavor and is often used in salads for its delicate texture and taste. It pairs beautifully with vinaigrette and soft cheeses.
28. Vermont cheddar
Vermont cheddar is a cheddar cheese originating from Vermont, USA. It is known for its sharp flavor and firm texture, ranging from mild to extra sharp. It’s excellent for sandwiches, cheese boards, or as a flavorful addition to recipes. Read about the how long these cheese can sit out.
29. Vegetable korma
Vegetable korma is a creamy, rich curry made with mixed vegetables, nuts, and spices, simmered in a yogurt or coconut milk base. This dish is a staple in Indian cuisine, known for its mild, sweet flavor, making it a perfect introduction to curries for those who prefer less spicy foods.
30. Veggie burgers
Veggie burgers offer a versatile and plant-based alternative to traditional meat burgers. Made from ingredients like beans, lentils, tofu, or vegetables, they can be seasoned in countless ways to suit any taste, making them a popular choice for vegetarians and health-conscious eaters.
31. Vol-au-vent
This is a small, hollow case of puff pastry. Vol-au-vent can be filled with various ingredients, such as chicken, fish, or mushrooms, in a creamy sauce, making it a versatile choice for elegant appetizers or entrees.
32. Vaca frita
‘Vaca Frita’ or ‘fried cow’ is a Cuban specialty that deserves a mention. It’s made from marinated, boiled, and then fried shredded beef, usually flank steak. The meat is crisp on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside, typically served with lime, onions, and a side of fried plantains.
33. Vacherin fribourgeois
This is a creamy, semi-soft Swiss cheese made from cow’s milk. Vacherin Fribourgeois is ideal for fondue, adding a smooth texture and a slightly floral and nutty flavor to the dish.
34. Valencia Rice
This type of rice, from Valencia, Spain, is traditionally used to make paella. It absorbs liquids well without becoming mushy, capturing the flavors of the broth and spices used in cooking, resulting in a firm, flavorful dish.
35. Vollkornbrot
Vollkornbrot is a German whole-grain bread that is both hearty and dense. Made primarily from whole rye grains, it is rich in fiber and has a distinctive, slightly sour taste that pairs well with robust cheeses and cured meats.
Final thoughts
From verjuice to vollkornbrot, each of these foods starting with ‘V,’ offers something unique for your palate. Experiment with these ingredients to introduce new textures and flavors to your meals. Who knows, you might discover some culinary favorites that will inspire your cooking for years to come!
