For many people around the world, eating delicious food is what gives them life. Some great foods and dishes start with the letter “J,” and knowing which foods begin with these letters can open a world of possibilities for new flavors and experiences.
Initially, it can be challenging to think of foods that start with “J”, but this article will show some lesser-known options. Here are some of the best foods and dishes that start with “J” and where to find them.
Table of Contents
Jabuticaba
Jabuticaba is one of the most popular fruits from South America, enjoyed by the people of Peru, Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Jabuticaba is a versatile fruit with different uses ranging from jams, juices, wines, or enjoyed fresh. It is a sweet fruit with high water content, making it great for the summer months. Jabuticaba also has a short shelf-life, which means that it is unfit for global markets, and most are eaten or prepared within three to four days of harvesting. The Jabuticaba tree is a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts due to how slow it grows, and once it is fully grown, it will offer fresh fruits to those who plant it in their backyards.
Jackfruit
The humble jackfruit is a mystery to many people who don’t consume it normally or know it exists. Jackfruits are native to Southeast Asia and India but grow as far north as southern parts of China and as far south as Indonesia. Jackfruits have high water content and are perfect for those looking to hydrate themselves during the warm summer months.
Jackfruits are eaten fresh, like most other fruits, but have a wide range of culinary uses. It’s popular in curry dishes, salads, and it is even deep-fried. The jackfruit has the same consistency and texture as pulled pork when cooked, and it can be a meat substitute for those with dietary restrictions.
Jack Mackerel
One of the mackerel family members, the jack mackerel, is a smaller fish native to the Pacific Ocean. Due to its size, the jack mackerel can substitute sardines or other recipes that call for small fish. It does not lack flavor, which makes it a fantastic choice for replacing tuna and salmon. It is a safer substitute for those wary of mercury consumption because it’s lower on the aquatic food chain than larger fish with higher concentrations.
The Jack Mackerel is eaten across the Pacific Ocean and is prepared in the same way as other fish. Baking, frying, grilling, in sushi or sashimi, or stews. There are as many options for the Jack Mackerel as there are fish in the sea.
Jaffles
A jaffle is a South African pressed sandwich with savory fillings, similar to the Italian panini. Jaffles combine the pressed sandwich with many different varieties and offer a unique round shape uncommon in many sandwiches. This sandwich is popular with children due to how simple it is to create and eat.
Jaffles also come in the form of soft and buttery bread filled with fruits, chocolate, nuts, and cream. Jaffles are simple to make at home or served at restaurants in South Africa.
Jalapeno
Arguably the world’s most popular chili pepper, the jalapeno is as delicious as it is famous. It originated in Mexico and spread across the world as the star of spicy peppers. Jalapenos are especially popular in the United States and Latin America. Many dishes utilize jalapenos in these regions, and they are an excellent addition for anyone looking to add a kick to their meal.
Jalapenos have a wide range of uses, from sauces to fresh salads, and are edible fresh. Mexico’s iconic tacos and burritos use the iconic chili pepper, but they are also popular as garnishes for barbecued meats, soups and stews, and cocktails.
Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a dish from New Orleans, Louisiana, in the United States. New Orleans is a city known for its unique and world-renowned Cajun cuisine, and Jambalaya is one of the star dishes. The main ingredients of Jambalaya are rice, meat, vegetables, and stock, making it similar to the Spanish dish paella. The most popular meat in Jambalaya is Andouille sausage, which has a spicy flavor, and it’s accompanied by pork or chicken in the dish. Seafood is also popular in Jambalaya, usually consisting of crayfish or shrimp. The vegetables in this dish include the “holy trinity” of Cajun cuisine, which are bell peppers, onions, and celery, but other vegetables and garnishes, such as garlic or shallots, are common.
Jambon Pastries
Jambon pastries are an Irish pastry filled with ham and cheese. This dish features puff pastries filled with ham and assorted cheese, making it a simple recipe to prepare at home. Jambon is arguably the newest dish featured on this list, as it originated in the 1990s to have portable food for busy workers. The preferred cheese is cheddar, but variations on the ham and different cheeses in the pastry are possible with how simple it is to make this dish.
Jams and Jellies
Japanese Curry
Java Plum
Jerk
Jerky
