80+ All Time Favorite Food Items that Start with Y

When it comes to food, there are endless options to choose from. From fruits and vegetables to meats and grains, there is something for everyone. However, have you ever thought about trying food items that start with the letter Y? Here’s a list of the top 80 food items that start with Y, along with their brief description, facts, and benefits.

1. Yam

Yams are edible tubers that have a starchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor. They are often used in soups, stews, and casseroles. Yams are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and manganese. Moreover, they are packed with dietary fiber, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.

2. Yellow Squash

Yellow squash is a type of summer squash that has a long, cylindrical shape and a bright yellow color. It is low in calories and high in nutrients, such as vitamin C, potassium, and beta-carotene. Yellow squash can be enjoyed grilled, baked, or sautéed and is a delicious addition to any meal.

3. Yogurt

Yogurt is a creamy dairy product that is made by fermenting milk with live cultures. It is a great source of protein, calcium, and probiotics, which are beneficial for gut health. Yogurt also contains nutrients like vitamin B12, magnesium, and potassium. It is a versatile food that can be enjoyed as a snack, used in cooking, or added to smoothies.

4. Yucca

Yucca root, also known as cassava, is a starchy tuber that is commonly used in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine. It has a mild flavor and can be boiled, fried, or mashed. Yucca is high in carbohydrates and a good source of vitamin C, folate, and potassium.

5. Yellowfin Tuna

Yellowfin tuna is a type of fish that is popular for its firm texture and mild flavor. It is rich in protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health. Yellowfin tuna is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, selenium, and magnesium.

6. Yuzu

Yuzu is a citrus fruit that originated in East Asia. It has a distinct tart and aromatic flavor and is often used in cooking and as a seasoning. Yuzu is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, making it beneficial for boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin.

7. Yellow Bell Pepper

Yellow bell peppers are a type of sweet pepper that have a vibrant yellow color and a crisp texture. They are low in calories and high in nutrients, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium. Yellow bell peppers can be enjoyed raw in salads or cooked in various dishes.

8. Yams

Yams are a root vegetable that is similar in appearance to sweet potatoes. They have a creamy texture and a mildly sweet flavor, making them a versatile ingredient for both savory and sweet dishes. Yams are rich in dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamins A and C.

9. Yellowtail

Yellowtail, also known as kingfish or amberjack, is a popular fish in Japanese cuisine. It has a firm texture and a rich, buttery flavor. Yellowtail is an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it beneficial for heart health.

10. Yellow Watermelon

Yellow watermelon is a type of fruit that has a yellow flesh instead of the traditional pink or red flesh. It is sweeter and more aromatic than other types of watermelon. Yellow watermelon is low in calories and high in nutrients, such as vitamins A and C, potassium, and lycopene.

11. Yerba Mate

Yerba mate is a type of herbal tea that is popular in South American countries. It is made from the leaves of the yerba mate plant and has a slightly bitter flavor. Yerba mate is rich in antioxidants, caffeine, and nutrients like vitamin B6 and vitamin C.

12. Yuca

Yuca, also known as cassava or manioc, is a starchy root vegetable that is commonly used in Latin American cuisine. It has a mild flavor and can be cooked in various ways, including boiling, frying, or baking. Yuca is a good source of carbohydrates, vitamin C, and potassium.

13. Yabbies

Yabbies are freshwater crustaceans that are similar to small lobsters. They have a sweet flavor and can be enjoyed grilled, boiled, or fried. Yabbies are low in fat and calories but high in protein, making them a healthy alternative to other seafood options.

14. Yellowfin Sole

Yellowfin sole is a type of flatfish that is popular for its delicate and mild flavor. It is low in calories and fat but rich in nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and phosphorus. Yellowfin sole can be baked, broiled, or pan-fried and is a great addition to any seafood dish.

15. Yellow Lentils

Yellow lentils are one of the most commonly consumed types of lentils. They have a mild flavor and cook quickly, making them an easy addition to soups, curries, and stews. Yellow lentils are rich in fiber, protein, iron, and other essential nutrients.

16. Yellow Raisins

Yellow raisins are made from dried yellow grapes and have a slightly sweeter flavor than their darker counterparts. They are a great source of energy, thanks to their high sugar content. Yellow raisins are also rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals like potassium and iron.

17. Yum Cha

Yum cha, also known as dim sum, is a type of Chinese cuisine that is characterized by small portions of savory and sweet dishes served in bamboo steamer baskets. It includes a variety of items such as dumplings, buns, and desserts. Yum cha offers a unique dining experience and allows you to try different flavors and textures.

18. Yellow Oyster Mushroom

Yellow oyster mushrooms are a type of edible mushroom that has a mild, nutty flavor and a delicate texture. They can be enjoyed raw or cooked and add a unique twist to any dish. Yellow oyster mushrooms are low in calories but rich in nutrients like protein, fiber, and essential minerals.

19. Yerushalmi Kugel

Yerushalmi kugel is a type of noodle-based pudding that originated in Jerusalem, Israel. It is made with thin noodles, caramelized sugar, and black pepper, resulting in a unique sweet and savory flavor combination. Yerushalmi kugel is a popular dish for Jewish holidays and celebrations.

20. Yellow Eye Beans

Yellow eye beans, also known as Maine yellow eyes, are a type of white bean with a distinctive yellow spot on its inner curve. They have a creamy texture and mild flavor and can be used in soups, stews, or salads. Yellow eye beans are high in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

21. Yorkshire Pudding

Yorkshire pudding is a traditional English dish that consists of a baked pudding made from eggs, flour, and milk. It has a crisp exterior and a soft, airy interior and is often served with roast beef or gravy. Despite its name, Yorkshire pudding is not actually a dessert but rather a savory side dish.

22. Yummy Mummies

Yummy mummies, also known as mummified sausages, are a popular Halloween dish in the United Kingdom. They are made by wrapping sausages in pastry and adding edible eyes to create a spooky effect. Yummy mummies are a fun and delicious treat for both kids and adults.

23. Yellow Mustard

Yellow mustard is a type of condiment that is made from ground mustard seeds, vinegar, and spices. It has a tangy and slightly spicy flavor and is often used as a topping for hot dogs, burgers, or sandwiches. Yellow mustard is low in calories but rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.

24. Yuzu

Yuzu is a type of citrus fruit that is native to East Asia. It has a distinctive sour and tart flavor and is often used as a seasoning or garnish in Japanese cuisine. Yuzu is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and essential oils that give it a unique aroma.

25. Yellow Squash

Yellow squash, also known as summer squash, is a type of vegetable that belongs to the same family as zucchini. It has a mild and slightly sweet flavor and can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, roasting, or stir-frying. Yellow squash is rich in nutrients like vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.

26. Yak Butter

Yak butter is made from the milk of yaks, which are large domesticated animals found in the Himalayan region. It has a rich and creamy texture and is often used in traditional Tibetan cuisine. Yak butter is high in fat and calories but also contains beneficial fatty acids and vitamins.

27. Yellowtail

Yellowtail, also known as Japanese amberjack, is a type of fish that is popular in Asian cuisine. It has a mild flavor and firm texture, making it suitable for a variety of cooking methods, such as grilling, broiling, or sashimi. Yellowtail is rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like calcium and iron.

28. Yerba Buena

Yerba buena is a type of mint plant that is commonly used in traditional medicine and herbal teas. It has a refreshing and slightly spicy flavor and is often used to relieve digestive issues or cold symptoms. Yerba buena also contains beneficial compounds like antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

29. Yogurt

Yogurt is a dairy product that is made by fermenting milk with live bacteria cultures. It has a creamy texture and a tangy flavor and can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for sauces, dips, and marinades. Yogurt is high in protein, calcium, and probiotics that promote gut health.

30. Yacon

Yacon is a root vegetable that is native to South America and is becoming increasingly popular as a natural sweetener. It has a crisp texture and a mildly sweet flavor similar to apples or pears. Yacon is low in calories but high in fiber and fructooligosaccharides, a type of prebiotic that supports digestive health.

List of More Food Items with Letter Y

S.No	Food Name	Description
1	Yams	A starchy root vegetable similar to a sweet potato, commonly used in Caribbean and African cooking.
2	Yogurt	A dairy product produced by bacterial fermentation of milk.
3	Yuca/Yucca	A starchy root vegetable also known as cassava, used in Latin American cuisine.
4	Yeast	A type of fungus used in baking and brewing to ferment sugars and produce carbon dioxide and alcohol.
5	Yorkshire Pudding	A British side dish made from a simple batter of eggs, flour, and milk or water.
6	Yautia	A tropical root vegetable also known as taro root or malanga.
7	Yellow Beans	A variety of beans that are yellow in color, often used in salads and soups.
8	Yali Pear	Also known as the Chinese white pear, it’s a hybrid pear native to North China.
9	Yuzu	A citrus fruit from East Asia that tastes like a cross between a lime and a grapefruit.
10	Yellowfin Tuna	A species of tuna prized for its size and culinary uses.
11	Yolk	The yellow part of an egg, rich in protein and fat.
12	Yangmei	Also known as Chinese bayberry, a fruit native to China with a sweet-tart flavor.
13	Yakisoba	A Japanese noodle stir-fry dish typically made with pork and vegetables.
14	Yankee Pot Roast	A traditional American dish made from slow-cooked beef, potatoes, and carrots.
15	Yellow Dragon Fruit	A type of dragon fruit with yellow skin and white flesh, known for its sweet taste.
16	Yarrow	An herb often used in teas and as a spice.
17	Yellow Apples	A variety of apples that are yellow in color, such as Golden Delicious.
18	Yellow Eye Beans	A type of beans with a distinctive yellow “eye” or spot.
19	Yellow Layer Cake	A classic American dessert made with layers of yellow cake and frosting.
20	Yogurt Muffins	Muffins made with yogurt, which gives them a moist and tender texture.
21	Youngberry	A hybrid berry that’s a cross between a blackberry and a raspberry.
22	Yakitori	A Japanese dish consisting of skewered, grilled chicken.
23	Yellow Pea Soup	A hearty soup made from yellow split peas.
24	Yuzu Juice	The juice of the yuzu fruit, often used in Japanese and Korean cooking.
25	Yeast Rolls	Bread rolls made with yeast, which gives them a light and fluffy texture.
26	Yogurt Cheese	A type of cheese made by straining yogurt to remove the whey.
27	Yogurt Smoothie	A smoothie made with yogurt, fruit, and often some kind of sweetener.
28	Yam Noodles	Noodles made from the starch of the konjac yam, also known as shirataki noodles.
29	Yellow Squash	A type of summer squash with yellow skin.
30	Yogurt Dip	A dip made with yogurt and various seasonings, often served with vegetables or bread.
31	Yellow Curry	A Thai curry made with yellow curry paste, coconut milk, meat, and vegetables.
32	Yogurt Parfait	A dessert or breakfast dish made with layers of yogurt, fruit, and granola.
33	Yeast Doughnuts	Doughnuts made with a yeast dough, which gives them a light and airy texture.
34	Yogurt Dressing	A salad dressing made with yogurt and various seasonings.
35	Yellow Cake	A classic American cake made with vanilla and egg yolks, which give it a yellow color.
36	Yogurt-covered Raisins	Raisins that have been coated in a sweetened yogurt mixture.
37	Yeast Bread	Any bread that uses yeast as a leavening agent.
38	Yogurt-covered Pretzels	Pretzels that have been coated in a sweetened yogurt mixture.
39	Yogurt Ice Cream	Ice cream made with yogurt, often lower in fat than traditional ice cream.
40	Yogurt Popsicles	Popsicles made with yogurt and fruit, often sweetened with honey or sugar.
41	Yellow Rice	Rice that has been colored yellow with saffron or turmeric.
42	Yogurt Soup	A soup made with yogurt, often found in Middle Eastern and Eastern European cuisines.
43	Yogurt Sauce	A sauce made with yogurt and various seasonings, often served with grilled meats.
44	Yogurt Fruit Salad	A fruit salad dressed with a yogurt-based dressing.
45	Yeast Pancakes	Pancakes made with a yeast batter, giving them a light and fluffy texture.
46	Yogurt Oatmeal	Oatmeal made with yogurt, often eaten for breakfast.
47	Yeast Pizza Dough	Pizza dough made with yeast, which gives it a light and chewy texture.
48	Yogurt Pound Cake	A pound cake made with yogurt, which gives it a moist and tender texture.
49	Yogurt Scones	Scones made with yogurt, which gives them a moist and tender texture.
50	Yogurt Granola Bars	Granola bars made with yogurt, oats, nuts, and often some kind of sweetener.

Overall, incorporating these diverse and delicious food items into your diet can provide you with essential nutrients, unique flavors, and enjoyable dining experiences. So the next time you come across a food item that starts with the letter Y, be sure to give it a try and expand your culinary horizons.