Foods That Start With K

These foods that start with K include common ingredients and recipes beginning with K, as well as unique foods that might be new to you! It's a great reference for cooking through the alphabet, trivia, or any other fun food challenges! Everything is organized into categories to make it super easy to navigate, too!

Foods That Start With The Letter K

Maybe you're attending Trivia night, or perhaps you're taking part in cooking through the alphabet or another food challenge. No matter the reason, thinking about what foods start with K is what brought you here!

I thought of kiwis, of course, and then kumquats, but couldn't come up with much else off the top of my head. However, after some research, I dug up tons of tasty foods that start with K!

Jump to:

• Foods That Start With The Letter K
• 🍉 Fruits, Nuts, & Beans That Start With K
• 1. Kaffir Lime
• 2. Kalamata Olives
• 3. Kidney Bean
• 4. Kiwi
• 5. Kumquat
• 🥕 Vegetables That Start With K
• 6. Kabocha Squash
• 7. Kale
• 8. Kelp
• 9. Kohlrabi
• 10. Kombu
• 11. Kalettes
• 12. Kangkong
• 🍞 Bread That Starts With K
• 13. Kaiser Roll
• 14. Katlama
• 15. Keema Naan
• 16. Knackebrod
• 🥛 Dairy That Starts With K
• 17. Kasseri
• 18. Kopanisti
• 🌾 Grains That Start With K
• 19. Kasha
• 20. Koshihikari
• 🧂 Condiments, Herbs, & Spices That Start With K
• 21. Katsuobushi
• 22. Kecap Manis
• 23. Ketchup
• 🍹 Drinks That Start With K
• 24. Kefir
• 25. Kombucha
• 26. Kummel
• 27. Kvass
• 🍽️ Appetizers & Side Dishes That Start With K
• 28. Kenkey
• 29. Kimchi (or Kimchee)
• 30. Kongbap
• 31. Korokke
• 32. Kreplach
• 33. Kugel
• 🍟 Snacks That Start With K
• 34. Kaki-No-Tane
• 35. Kirara
• 36. Knishes
• 37. Kuli-Kuli
• 38. Kundol
• 🥬 Vegetarian Dishes That Start With K
• 39. Kadai Paneer
• 40. Kosa
• 41. Kanji
• 🥩 Proteins & Main Courses That Start With K
• 42. Kabob (or Kebab)
• 43. Kafta
• 44. Katsu Sando
• 45. Kedgeree
• 46. Keftedes
• 47. Kidney pie
• 48. Kielbasa
• 49. Knackwurst
• 50. Korma
• 51. Kung Pao Chicken
• 52. Kya Zan Hinga
• 53. Kyeema
• 54. Kabuli Palaw
• 55. Kafta
• 56. Kapuska
• 57. Kare-Kare
• 🐟 Seafood That Starts With K
• 58. King crab
• 59. Kingfish
• 60. Kipper
• 🍰 Desserts That Start With K
• 61. Kaiserschmarren
• 62. Kakigori
• 63. Kalburabasma
• 64. Kesari
• 65. Key Lime Pie
• 66. Kheer
• 67. Knack
• 68. Knicker Bocker Glory
• 69. Kolachi
• 70. Kos Halva
• 71. Kossuth cakes
• 72. Kouign-Amann
• 73. Koulourakia
• 74. Kourabiedes
• 75. Kransekake
• 76. Kringla
• 77. Kuchen
• 78. Kulfi
• 79. Kunefe
• 80. Kusamochi
• 📖 Recipe Card
• Foods That Start With K: Kecap Manis (+More Foods Beginning With The Letter K!)
• 💬 Comments & Reviews

🍉 Fruits, Nuts, & Beans That Start With K

1. Kaffir Lime

Kaffir limes, also known as 'makrut limes,' are a type of citrus fruit native to Southeast Asia, including countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. The zest and leaves are also highly sought-after for their citrusy, floral, and slightly spicy flavor.

Kaffir limes also have a distinctive appearance that differentiates them from traditional limes. They are more round, with dark green skin that is very rough and bumpy.

2. Kalamata Olives

Kalamata olives are native to Greece and are often used in Mediterranean and Greek cuisine. These olives have a distinctive olive shape and dark purple-to-black color.

Kalamata olives are highly regarded for their firm texture and robust flavor that is salty and somewhat fruity.

3. Kidney Bean

Kidney beans are a variety of common legume that is a very good source of dietary fiber and a good source of essential nutrients. They come in various colors like red, white, cream, black, spotted, and mottled.

Their name is in reference to their shape, which is similar to that of a human kidney.

4. Kiwi

Kiwi is a sweet and tangy fruit native to China but named after the kiwi bird in New Zealand! Alternative names for kiwi include 'kiwifruit' and 'Chinese gooseberry.'

Kiwis are small, round, and fuzzy, with juicy green flesh and tiny black seeds that are completely edible.

5. Kumquat

A kumquat is a small citrus fruit that is unique compared to most citrus because it is typically eaten whole, including the peel. The name "kumquat" is derived from two Cantonese words meaning "gold" and "orange."

The name accurately describes this small fruit that looks like an orange but is the size of a grape.

🥕 Vegetables That Start With K

6. Kabocha Squash

Kabocha squash is a type of winter squash that is popular in Japanese and other Asian cuisines and is often called 'Japanese pumpkin.' It has a sweet and slightly nutty flavor that is often compared to sweet potatoes or pumpkin.

7. Kale

Kale is a leafy green vegetable in the same family as vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. It is known for its nutrient-rich leaves and has gained popularity as a superfood due to its exceptional nutritional value.

8. Kelp

Kelp is a type of large, brown seaweed that is commonly consumed in several Asian cuisines, particularly in Japan, China, and Korea. It's a versatile ingredient known for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits.

9. Kohlrabi

Kohlrabi is a variety of German turnip that also belongs to the same family as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. Appearance-wise, kohlrabi looks like a cross between cabbage and traditional turnips.

Generally, only the bulb-like stem is used, which is savored for its sweet flavor and crisp texture.

10. Kombu

Kombu is a type of edible kelp or seaweed that is frequently used in Japanese, Korean, and Chinese cuisine. It is an essential ingredient in making dashi, a flavorful stock that is the foundation of many Japanese dishes.

Kombu is known for its unique umami flavor and its ability to give depth and richness to various dishes.

11. Kalettes

Kalettes are a relatively new hybrid of kale and Brussels sprouts. They are sometimes called 'flower sprouts' or 'lollipop kale.'

Kalettes have a mild, sweet, and nutty flavor with hints of kale and brussel sprouts.

>>>>See all of my recipes here<<<<

12. Kangkong

Kangkong, also known as water spinach, is a leafy green vegetable that is grown and enjoyed in various parts of Asia, particularly the Southeastern countries. The tender stems and leaves have a slightly earthy, mildly sweet flavor.

🍞 Bread That Starts With K

13. Kaiser Roll

Kaiser rolls, also known as Vienna rolls or simply "Kaisers, are a type of bread roll from Austria. These rolls are characterized by their round shape, slightly crisp crust, soft and fluffy interior, and a distinctive pattern of five curved score marks on top.

14. Katlama

Katlama is a traditional Turkish flatbread. It is a type of unleavened bread that is known for its simplicity and versatility.

Katlama is typically thin and can be made quickly, making it a convenient choice for various meals!

15. Keema Naan

Keema naan is an Indian flatbread stuffed with spiced minced meat, usually lamb or goat (keema). It can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, side dish, or even as the main course!

16. Knackebrod

Knäckebröd, often spelled like 'knackebrod' in English, is a crisp, dry Scandinavian flatbread. It is known for its distinctive texture, which is crunchy and usually quite thin.

Knäckebröd is made primarily from whole-grain rye flour and water, although some variations may include wheat flour, oatmeal, or other grains.

🥛 Dairy That Starts With K

17. Kasseri

Kasseri is a type of Greek cheese that is known for its smooth, semi-soft-to-firm texture and rich, buttery flavor. It is made from sheep's milk, goat's milk, or sometimes a combination of both.

18. Kopanisti

Kopanisti is a Greek cheese known for its strong and pungent flavor. It is often called a 'spicy' or 'fiery' cheese due to its intense taste.

Kopanisti cheese is typically made from cow's, sheep's, or goat's milk or a combination of these kinds of milk.

🌾 Grains That Start With K

19. Kasha

Kasha is a Russian/Eastern European porridge made from buckwheat groats that have been toasted or roasted. Making kasha typically involves toasting the buckwheat groats in a dry skillet or pan before cooking them.

This toasting step helps enhance the nutty flavor of the groats and gives them a slightly golden brown color.

20. Koshihikari

Koshihikari is a high-quality and highly sought-after variety of Japanese short-grain rice. It is known for its exceptional taste, texture, and appearance, and it is considered one of the best types of rice for sushi and other traditional dishes.

🧂 Condiments, Herbs, & Spices That Start With K

21. Katsuobushi

Katsuobushi, also called bonito flakes, is a traditional Japanese ingredient made from dried, fermented, and smoked bonito fish, which is a type of tuna. It is important in Japanese cuisine, particularly in preparing dashi (a commonly used broth).

22. Kecap Manis

Kecap manis, or 'ketjap manis,' is a dark, thick, and syrupy Indonesian soy sauce that combines sweet and savory flavors. The sauce undergoes a fermentation process to develop its unique taste and dark color.

It is typically sweetened with palm sugar or molasses, which gives it its signature sweetness.

23. Ketchup

A popular American condiment made from tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and spices. Most notably served with french fries, ketchup is also often used as a burger topping, hot dog topping, or as an ingredient in soups, stews, marinades, or sauces.

🍹 Drinks That Start With K

24. Kefir

Kefir is a fermented dairy drink that is similar to yogurt but with a thinner consistency and distinct tangy flavor. It is made by fermenting milk with kefir grains and is beneficial for gut health.

25. Kombucha

Kombucha is a drink made from sweetened tea that has been fermented with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. This culture is often called a 'kombucha mother.'

The fermentation process converts the sugar and tea into a tangy and slightly fizzy beverage. Different fruits, herbs, and spices are often added for flavor.

26. Kummel

Kümmel, pronounced "koo-mel," is a traditional liqueur or schnapp that originated in Germany but is also popular in other parts of Europe. The primary flavoring agent in kümmel is caraway seed, which gives the liqueur its distinctive smooth and savory taste.

27. Kvass

Kvass is a traditional fermented beverage that originates from Eastern Europe, particularly Russia and Ukraine. It is an alcoholic drink made from the fermentation of rye bread, along with water and sugar or fruit for added flavor.

🍽️ Appetizers & Side Dishes That Start With K

28. Kenkey

Kenkey, also called 'komi' or 'kokoe,' is a popular traditional West African dish made from fermented maize (corn) dough. It is similar to a sourdough dumpling and is often served with soups, stews, grilled fish, and fried or grilled meats.

29. Kimchi (or Kimchee)

Kimchi (also called kimchee) is a traditional Korean dish made from fermented vegetables, usually cabbage and radishes. It can be served as a side dish or used as a condiment to add spicy fermented flavor to any meal!

30. Kongbap

Kongbap, or 'kongbap rice,' is a traditional Korean dish made primarily of rice and beans. In Korean, the word 'kong" means beans, and 'bap' means rice. It is a simple and nutritious meal that has been consumed in Korea for centuries.

31. Korokke

Korokke is a popular Japanese dish that consists of breaded and deep-fried patties, usually made with mashed potatoes or ground meat.

The word "korokke' comes from the French word 'croquette.' That's because the dish was introduced to Japan during the Meiji era when Western cuisine had a large influence on Japanese cooking.

32. Kreplach

Kreplach are small triangular or square-shaped pockets of dough filled with a savory filling. The filling usually consists of ground meat (beef, chicken, or sometimes even fish) mixed with onions and seasonings.

They are popular in Jewish cuisine (especially during holidays and special occasions) and are sometimes associated with the Jewish holiday of Purim.

33. Kugel

A Jewish baked casserole that is most commonly made with egg noodles or potatoes and is often served on Jewish holidays. There are savory and sweet (dessert) variations of kugel, but a cheesy baked kugel is one of the most popular.

🍟 Snacks That Start With K

34. Kaki-No-Tane

Kaki-no-tane is a popular Japanese snack that consists of small crescent-shaped rice crackers mixed with small, spicy peanuts. The name translates to 'persimmon seeds' in English because the snack is named for its shape, which is reminiscent of persimmon seeds.

35. Kirara

Kirara are Japanese rice crackers that are typically enjoyed as a quick snack. The crispy crackers come in various flavors like cheese, lemon, soy sauce, truffle, nori seaweed, and more.

36. Knishes

Knishes are a type of savory pastry that originated in European Jewish communities. They are made from dough that is filled with various ingredients, such as mashed potatoes, seasoned ground meat, onions, vegetables, or even cheese.

The filled dough is then baked or deep-fried until it becomes golden brown and crispy.

37. Kuli-Kuli

Kuli-kuli is a popular West African snack made from ground peanuts (also known as groundnuts) that are roasted, crushed, and mixed with various spices and seasonings. The mixture is then shaped into small, bite-sized balls or patties and deep-fried until they become crispy and golden brown.

38. Kundol

Kundol, also known as 'kundong' in some regions of the Philippines, is a traditional Filipino rice cake. It is flavored with coconut and sugar, giving it a creamy and slightly sweet taste that makes it a beloved sweet snack or dessert.

🥬 Vegetarian Dishes That Start With K

39. Kadai Paneer

An Indian dish made with Indian cottage cheese (paneer), bell peppers, and spices that are cooked in a wok-like pan called a kadai. Everything is tossed in a tomato-based masala that is usually a bit spicy.

40. Kosa

Kosa is a flavorful and nutritious vegetarian dish that is enjoyed as a side dish or accompaniment to rice or Indian bread (like roti or naan). It showcases the versatility of zucchini in Indian cuisine and is often prepared to make the most of the seasonal availability of this vegetable.

41. Kanji

Kanji is a type of rice porridge or gruel that originated in Southeast India. It's made by cooking rice with water until it reaches a thick, soupy consistency. Kanji is often served as a simple and comforting dish, especially when someone is feeling unwell or fasting.

🥩 Proteins & Main Courses That Start With K

42. Kabob (or Kebab)

Kabobs (or kebabs) are skewered and grilled meats, usually with vegetables, that are popular in Middle Eastern cuisine. Typically, the meat, seafood, and/or vegetables are marinated before being grilled or roasted over an open flame.

43. Kafta

Kafta, also called 'kofte' or 'kefta,' is a popular Middle Eastern dish made from ground meat (usually beef, lamb, or a combination of both). The ground meat is mixed with various seasonings, spices, and herbs, then formed into small patties and cooked.

44. Katsu Sando

A katsu sando is a popular Japanese sandwich made with breaded and deep-fried pork or chicken cutlets (aka tonkatsu or chicken katsu) placed between two slices of white bread. The term 'sando' is an abbreviation for 'sandwich' in Japanese.

45. Kedgeree

Kedgeree is a classic British dish with roots in Indian cuisine. It's made with flaked, smoked fish (such as haddock or cod), rice, hard-boiled eggs, and a blend of spices.

Kedgeree is often served as breakfast or brunch but can also be enjoyed at other times of the day.

46. Keftedes

Keftedes, also known as Greek meatballs, are a popular dish in Greek cuisine. They are made from ground meat (usually a combination of beef and lamb) mixed with various herbs, spices, and other ingredients.

Keftedes are then shaped into patties and either fried or baked until they are cooked through and have a crispy exterior.

47. Kidney pie

Kidney pie, or steak and kidney pie, is a classic British savory pie made with diced beef or steak and beef kidneys. The meat is first cooked in a rich gravy-like sauce before being enclosed in a flaky pie crust.

While steak and kidney pie is the most common version, some variations use lamb or other meats as well.

48. Kielbasa

Kielbasa is a type of sausage that originates from Poland and is also typically associated with Polish cuisine. It is a versatile and popular sausage variety known for its savory, smoky flavor and has grown in popularity worldwide!

49. Knackwurst

Knackwurst, also called 'knockwurst,' is a type of German sausage that is known for having a snap or 'knack' when you bite into it. It is well-known for its savory flavor and is a popular addition to German sausage and sauerkraut platters.

50. Korma

Korma is a popular dish in Indian cuisine that is characterized by its rich, creamy sauce made with yogurt, cream, or a mixture of both. It can be made with various proteins, including chicken, lamb, beef, or vegetables, and is known for its mild and slightly sweet flavor.

51. Kung Pao Chicken

Kung Pao Chicken is a popular Chinese stir-fry dish originating in the Sichuan province of China. It is known for its bold and spicy flavor, combining tender chunks of chicken with roasted peanuts and a savory sauce, and is a popular Chinese takeout recipe!

52. Kya Zan Hinga

Kya zan hinga or 'Kya zan hin gar' is a traditional Burmese dish, often called 'Burmese chicken curry with noodles' or 'Burmese chicken coconut noodle soup.' It's a flavorful and hearty dish that combines chicken curry with coconut milk and rice noodles, making a rich and comforting soup.

53. Kyeema

Keema, or qeema, is a South Asian and Middle Eastern dish of cooked and seasoned ground meat. It is usually lamb or beef but can also be made with chicken, turkey, or other meats.

54. Kabuli Palaw

Kabuli Palaw, also called Kabuli Pulao or Qabili Palaw, is a popular Afghan rice dish. It's one of Afghanistan's national dishes and is often served at special occasions, celebrations, and gatherings.

This dish features long-grain Basmati rice cooked with tender chunks of meat, typically lamb or chicken. What sets Kabuli Palaw apart is its use of caramelized carrots and raisins as toppings.

55. Kafta

Kafta, also known as 'kofte' or 'kofta,' is a popular Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dish made from ground beef, lamb, or both. It is shaped into small patties before being grilled, broiled, or pan-fried until it has a deliciously charred exterior.

56. Kapuska

Kapuska is a traditional Turkish cabbage stew or casserole. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that consists of cabbage cooked with ground beef or lamb, tomatoes, onions, and spices.

57. Kare-Kare

Kare-Kare is a traditional Filipino stew known for its rich and savory peanut sauce. It's a popular and iconic dish in Filipino cuisine and is often served during special occasions and celebrations.

🐟 Seafood That Starts With K

58. King crab

King crab, also known as Alaskan king crab, is a type of large cold-water crab species known for its delicious and tender meat. It is considered a delicacy in many parts of the world and is highly sought-after for its sweet and flavorful flesh.

59. Kingfish

Kingfish, also known as king mackerel, is a type of saltwater fish that is prized for its mild flavor and firm texture. It is a popular fish in many parts of the world and is often sought after by anglers and seafood enthusiasts.

60. Kipper

A kipper is a type of preserved herring that has been split down the middle, gutted, salted, and then cold-smoked. The smoking process gives kippers their distinct smokey flavor and reddish-brown color.

Kippers are a traditional British and Irish breakfast dish and have been enjoyed for centuries.

🍰 Desserts That Start With K

61. Kaiserschmarren

Kaiserschmarren, or 'Emperor's Mess,' is a traditional Austrian dessert that can also be enjoyed as a sweet breakfast or brunch. It consists of light and fluffy pieces of pancake that are torn or cut while cooking and then topped with powdered sugar, fruit, or preserves.

62. Kakigori

Kakigori is a popular Japanese shaved ice that is flavored with different syrups and toppings. It is similar to other shaved ice desserts found in various cultures worldwide, like snow cones or shaved ice in Hawaii.

63. Kalburabasma

Kalburabasma is a Turkish dessert made of thin pastry layers filled with nuts and syrup and is known for its unique lattice-like appearance. It has a sweet and slightly buttery taste with a crispy pastry base and a syrup-soaked top layer.

64. Kesari

A popular Indian dessert made with semolina, sugar, ghee (clarified butter), saffron, and cardamom. It has a signature vibrant yellow or orange color from using saffron threads.

65. Key Lime Pie

Key lime pie is a classic American dessert that originates from the Florida Keys in the United States. It has a sweet and tart citrus flavor, a creamy texture, and a pale green color.

Key lime juice is the signature ingredient, which comes from the key lime fruits that are native to Florida.

66. Kheer

A creamy rice pudding made by simmering rice, milk, and sugar, along with aromatic such as cardamom, saffron, and sometimes nuts like almonds and pistachios. Ingredients like rose water, kewra essence, or grated coconut can also be added based on region and personal preferences.

67. Knack

A popular Belgian candy known for its rich, buttery, and sweet flavor. Many people call it 'Belgian toffee'.

Typically, sugar and butter are cooked until they reach a golden-brown caramelized consistency. Sometimes, it includes cream or condensed milk for added creaminess.

68. Knicker Bocker Glory

A British ice cream dessert traditionally served in a tall glass or sundae dish. Different ice cream flavors, sauces, fruits, and toppings are layered to create a visually appealing and tasty ice cream sundae.

The name 'Knicker Bocker Glory' is of unknown origin, though there are many conflicting theories.

69. Kolachi

Kolachis are sweet or savory European pastries that can be filled with various ingredients. Sweet kolaches might contain fruit or sweetened cheese, while savory versions could contain ingredients like sausage, cheese, or vegetables.

70. Kos Halva

Kos halva is a traditional Indian dessert made primarily from milk, sugar, and ghee (clarified butter). It has a rich and creamy texture and is often associated with festivals, special occasions, and celebrations in North India.

71. Kossuth cakes

Kossuth cakes are a type of Hungarian pastry named after Lajos Kossuth, a prominent Hungarian politician from the 19th century. These cakes are traditional Hungarian desserts that are popular for special occasions and celebrations.

72. Kouign-Amann

A pastry with layers of buttery, flaky goodness and a sweet, caramelized exterior. Kouign-Amann is often served as a dessert or a sweet treat, but it can also be enjoyed as a breakfast pastry or with a cup of coffee or tea.

73. Koulourakia

Koulourakia are Greek cookies that are twisted or braided into various shapes and can range from simple to intricate. They are known for their buttery, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of vanilla or citrus.

74. Kourabiedes

Kourabiedes are traditional Greek shortbread cookies that are especially popular during festive occasions like Christmas or weddings. These delicate, crumbly cookies are known for their buttery texture and are coated in powdered sugar.

75. Kransekake

A traditional Norwegian and Danish cake that is often used as a centerpiece for special occasions and celebrations, like weddings, birthdays, and holidays. It's made with almond paste, sugar, and egg whites and is shaped like a beautiful tower of rings.

76. Kringla

Kringla is a sweet, twisted, or pretzel-shaped Scandinavian pastry with a soft and tender texture. The flavors, fillings, and/or toppings can vary based on personal preference.

77. Kuchen

'Kuchen' is the German word for 'cake' and refers to a wide variety of cakes and pastries that are enjoyed in German-speaking countries. The word encompasses a range of sweet baked goods, each with its own unique ingredients, flavors, and variations.

78. Kulfi

Kulfi is a popular frozen dessert originating from India. It's described as 'Indian ice cream,' although it has a denser and creamier texture than Western-style ice cream.

79. Kunefe

A traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry that is soaked in sweet syrup and layered with cheese. Kunefe dough is made from wheat and water that is kneaded to achieve a thin, shredded texture, similar to shredded wheat.

80. Kusamochi

A Japanese dessert made from glutinous rice flour (mochiko) flavored with kinako (roasted soybean flour) or anko (sweet red bean paste). It is a simple yet delicious sweet treat that is often served as a dessert or snack.

Foods A-Z	Foods A-Z	Foods A-Z
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Foods That Start With J	Foods That Start With K	Foods That Start With L
Foods That Start With M	Foods That Start With N	Foods That Start With O
Foods That Start With P	Foods That Start With Q	Foods That Start With R
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Foods That Start With Y	Foods That Start With Z	Foods That Start With A-Z

Did I miss any must-try foods that start with the letter K? Let me know in the comment section below so I can add them to the list!

📖 Recipe Card