116 Foods Starting with P
Welcome to our P Foods journey! This article presents a list of tasty dishes that start with the letter “P”. Take a look at our selection and start planning your next food exploration. Get ready to satisfy your cravings with these delicious options!
1. Packham Pear
Packham pears are sweet and juicy with smooth skin and a pleasant crunch. They are great eaten fresh, and can be used in desserts and salads.
2. Pad Thai
Pad Thai is a popular Thai dish made with stir-fried rice noodles, eggs, and a mix of ingredients such as shrimp, chicken, or tofu. It’s seasoned with a balanced combination of flavors including sweet and salty.
3. Paella
This Valencian dish is known for its flavorful saffron-infused rice, combined with various ingredients such as chicken, seafood, and vegetables. It’s an aromatic one-pan dish that can be shared with family and friends.
4. Pak Choi
Also known as bok choy, this leafy green vegetable is used in Asian cuisine. It has a mild taste and can be stir-fried, sautéed, or added to soups for a healthy addition.
5. Pakora
Pakora is a popular Indian snack made by deep-frying vegetables or meat coated in a chickpea flour batter. It results in crispy and flavorful bites, often served with chutneys.
6. Pancakes
These flat and fluffy breakfast treats are made from a batter that’s cooked on a griddle. They can be sweet or savory and are often topped with syrup, fruits, or other toppings.
7. Pancetta
Pancetta is an Italian cured pork belly that is used to add a rich and savory flavor to dishes. It’s similar to bacon but not smoked.
8. Pandanus Leaves
Used in Asian cuisine, pandanus leaves add a fragrant and unique flavor to dishes. They’re often wrapped around ingredients before cooking to infuse their aroma.
9. Pandoro
Pandoro is an Italian Christmas cake that’s rich and buttery and often dusted with powdered sugar to resemble a snowy mountain.
10. Paneer
This fresh Indian cheese has a mild and creamy taste. It’s often used in curries, snacks, and various vegetarian dishes.
11. Panettone
Panettone is a sweet Italian bread typically enjoyed during the holidays. It’s often studded with candied fruits and raisins.
12. Panfish
Panfish, also known as sunfish, are small freshwater fish that are often caught for recreational fishing and are enjoyed for their tender and mild-flavored meat.
13. Panini
A panini is a type of grilled sandwich made with Italian bread and filled with various ingredients such as meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
14. Papaya
This tropical fruit with orange flesh has a sweet taste. It’s often enjoyed fresh or used in smoothies and salads.
15. Pappardelle Pasta
Pappardelle pasta is a wide and flat ribbon-like pasta that’s often served with rich sauces, creating a satisfying combination of textures.
16. Pappu
This South Indian lentil dish is seasoned with spices and herbs, creating a flavorful and comforting meal.
17. Paprika
Paprika is a spice made from dried and ground peppers, adding color and a mild pepper flavor to dishes.
18. Paradise Pears
These pears have a sweet and juicy taste and are often enjoyed as a snack or used in desserts.
19. Parfait
A parfait is a dessert made by layering ingredients like yogurt, fruits, and granola, creating a visually appealing and delicious treat.
20. Parma Ham
Also known as prosciutto, Parma ham is dry-cured and has a rich and savory taste. It’s often enjoyed sliced thinly as an appetizer or as an ingredient in dishes.
21. Parmesan
Parmesan is a hard and aged cheese with a nutty flavor, commonly used for grating over dishes like pasta or salads to add a savory element.
22. Parrotfish
Parrotfish is found in tropical waters and recognized by its colorful appearance. It’s enjoyed for its mild and versatile taste in various cuisines.
23. Parsley
Parsley is an herb used to enhance the flavor of dishes and provide a fresh touch. It’s commonly used as a garnish or incorporated into recipes for its herbal essence.
24. Parsnip
A root vegetable, parsnip has a subtly sweet taste and a texture similar to carrots. It’s often used in cooking, either roasted, mashed, or added to soups.
25. Partridge
Partridge is a type of game bird known for its lean and flavorful meat. It’s often prepared by roasting or braising for a satisfying meal.
26. Passata
Passata is a tomato puree used as a base for sauces and soups. It provides a concentrated tomato flavor to dishes.
27. Passion Fruit
Passion fruit is a tropical fruit with a unique appearance and a sweet and tangy taste. It’s enjoyed by scooping out the juicy pulp and is a fantastic ingredient in many desserts.
28. Pasta
Pasta is a hugely popular Italian food product typically made from wheat and water (though it can also be made with other grains or legumes). The dough is typically kneaded and then rolled thin, cut into various shapes, and cooked by boiling or baking. The most common shapes of pasta include spaghetti, penne, fusilli, and lasagna, but there are numerous other varieties available.
29. Pastrami
Pastrami is a seasoned and smoked cured meat often used in sandwiches. It has a distinct flavor and can be enjoyed hot or cold. It’s hugely popular in New York and a must-try when visiting the city.
30. Pastry
Pastry is a dough used to create a variety of baked goods, from pies to pastries. It can be flaky or tender, depending on the recipe.
31. Pâté
Pâté is a spreadable mixture of meat, liver, and other ingredients. It’s often enjoyed as an appetizer with bread or crackers.
32. Patty
A patty is a portion of ground meat or ingredients, often shaped into a round, flattened form and cooked. It’s commonly used in burgers and sandwiches.
33. Pavlova
This dessert is made with a crispy meringue base topped with whipped cream and fruits. Pavlova is the ultimate light, sweet treat.
34. Pawpaw
Pawpaw is a tropical fruit with a custard-like texture and a mild, fruity flavor. It’s enjoyed by scooping out the soft flesh.
35. PayDay
PayDay is a candy bar known for its combination of salty peanuts and sweet caramel. This snack offers a satisfying contrast of flavors and textures, making it a popular choice for those seeking a mix of sweet and savory.
36. Pea and Ham Soup
This hearty soup is made with green peas and ham, often with added vegetables and seasonings. It has an earthy flavor profile, making it a comforting choice, especially during colder seasons.
37. Peas
These vibrant green legumes are commonly used in cooking and enjoyed for their slightly sweet taste and tender texture. They can be served as a side dish, added to salads, or incorporated into various recipes to provide a burst of color and flavor.
38. Pea Shoots
Pea shoots are the young and tender leaves and tendrils of pea plants. These delicate greens have a mild flavor, often used in salads, sandwiches, and stir-fries to add a fresh and crunchy element.
39. Peach
This juicy, fragrant fruit has a sweet and subtly tangy taste. They are often enjoyed fresh as a refreshing snack or used in desserts, smoothies, and jams.
40. Peach Cobbler
Peach cobbler is a classic dessert made by baking ripe peaches with a biscuit-like topping. The dessert offers a warm and comforting combination of juicy peaches and a slightly crunchy crust.
41. Peach Pie
Peach pie is a traditional dessert made with a flaky pastry crust and a filling of sliced peaches. The pie is baked until golden and bubbling, resulting in a delectable blend of sweet and fruity flavors.
42. Peanut Brittle
Brittle in name and brittle in nature. This confection is made by caramelizing sugar and mixing it with roasted peanuts. The mixture is then cooled and broken into brittle pieces, creating a satisfying snack with a sweet and nutty taste.
43. Peanut Butter
Ground peanuts are pretty much the only ingredient in peanut butter. This creamy spread can be enjoyed on its own, in sandwiches, cakes, cookies, or as an ingredient in various recipes, adding a rich and nutty flavor.
44. Peanut Noodles
Peanut noodles are a dish made by tossing cooked noodles in a peanut-based sauce. The sauce, often made with peanut butter and seasonings, lends a creamy and nutty flavor to the noodles.
45. Peanut Sauce
Peanut sauce is a savory and nutty condiment made from peanuts and various seasonings. It’s used to enhance the flavors of dishes like stir-fries, satays, and salads.
46. Peanuts
These crunchy legumes are known for their rich and nutty taste. They are often enjoyed as a snack or used in cooking to add a satisfying crunch and flavor to various recipes.
47. Pear
Pears are juicy and sweet and have a soft texture. They can be enjoyed fresh, added to salads, or used in desserts to provide a natural sweetness.
48. Pear Salad
This classic dish is made by combining sliced pears with greens and often other ingredients such as cheese, nuts, and vinaigrette. The combination of flavors creates a harmonious blend of sweetness and freshness.
49. Pear Tart
Pear tart is a dessert made with a flaky pastry crust and sliced pears arranged on top. The tart is baked until the pears become tender and caramelized, resulting in a delightful treat with a fruity essence.
50. Pecan Nut
These nuts are known for their rich and buttery taste. They can be eaten on their own, used as toppings, or incorporated into various dishes for added flavor and texture.
51. Pecan Pie
Pecan pie is a classic American dessert made with a flaky crust and a filling of sugared pecans. The pie is baked until the filling sets, creating a sweet and nutty delicacy enjoyed especially during holidays.
52. Pecorino
This Italian cheese is made from sheep’s milk. It has a distinct and slightly tangy taste and is often used in cooking or as a garnish for various dishes.
53. Peking Duck
Peking duck is a famous Chinese dish known for its crispy skin and succulent meat. The duck is typically roasted and served with thin pancakes, scallions, and hoisin sauce for wrapping.
54. Pemmican
Pemmican is a concentrated and dried meat preparation, often mixed with berries and fat. It was traditionally used by Indigenous peoples as a lightweight and nutrient-dense source of sustenance.
55. Penne
This type of Italian pasta has a tubular shape and is often used in dishes with sauces that can cling to its surface, creating a satisfying bite. Check out our spicy salami pasta recipe with penne.
56. Pepitas
Roasted and salted pumpkin seeds are great for snacking. Pepitas have a crunchy texture and a mild, nutty flavor.
57. Pepperberry
Pepperberry is a type of berry known for its bold and peppery taste. It’s often used as a spice to add a distinctive kick to dishes.
58. Peppercorns
These dried berries are used as a spice to season dishes. They come in various colors and flavors, from mild and aromatic to bold and spicy.
59. Peppermint
Peppermint is a herb with a refreshing flavor often used to make tea or add a minty essence to desserts and dishes.
60. Pepperoni
A spicy, cured sausage, pepperoni goes well on pizzas, adding a zesty kick to the flavor.
61. Peppers
Peppers come in various colors and flavors, from sweet to mildly spicy. They’re used in cooking and salads for their vibrant appearance and taste.
62. Perch
This freshwater fish has a mild taste. It can be grilled or fried to maintain its delicate flavors. It’s also great for tacos.
63. Periwinkle
Periwinkles are seafood with a tender texture. Their unique taste makes them ideal as a snack or as an addition to various dishes.
64. Persian Melon
Persian melon is a sweet and aromatic fruit with juicy flesh. It is often eaten fresh as a refreshing treat.
65. Persimmon
This sweet and mildly tangy fruit is usually enjoyed when fully ripe and soft.
66. Peshwari Naan
Naan is an Indian flatbread and the peshwari naan is filled with a mixture of nuts, coconut, and dried fruits, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors.
67. Pesto
Pesto is a sauce made from basil, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. It’s often used to add a vibrant and herbal flavor to pasta and other dishes.
68. Phaletshe
Phaletshe is a traditional dish from Botswana made from sorghum or maize meal. It is a staple food cooked to a porridge-like consistency.
69. Pheasant
The meat of a pheasant is lean and gamey and goes well in comforting dishes. With its distinct flavor, it’s the choice for special occasions, cooked in ways that bring out its unique taste.
70. Pho (Vietnamese Noodle Soup)
Pho is a beloved Vietnamese noodle soup with a flavorful broth, thin rice noodles, and an array of toppings such as tender meat and fresh herbs. A staple in Vietnamese cuisine, it’s cherished for being a comforting, satisfying meal that warms the soul.
71. Piccalilli
This zesty, spicy relish is made with pickled vegetables and adds a burst of flavor to various dishes. Its vibrant flavors make it a versatile condiment, perfect for enhancing sandwiches, burgers, and even cold cuts.
72. Pickles
Pickles are vegetables preserved in brine, vinegar, or other solutions, offering a crisp and refreshing addition to meals and sandwiches. With their briny and refreshing taste, pickles provide a tangy contrast that elevates the overall flavor.
73. Pierogi
Pierogi are dumplings filled with ingredients like potatoes, cheese, or meat, often boiled and then sautéed to create a satisfying and wholesome dish.
74. Pigeon
The meat of a pigeon is lean and dark and has a mild taste. It can be cooked in various ways and its tender texture and unique flavor profile make it quite a delicacy – a delightful departure from more common meats.
75. Pigeon Pea
Not a pigeon but a pea. This legume has a mild and nutty flavor that goes well in various cuisines, usually in stews or curries. These small and nutritious peas bring a wholesome quality to dishes, making them a staple in many cultures.
76. Pike
Pike is a freshwater fish with tender white flesh, often enjoyed for its delicate taste and used in cooking and fish dishes.
77. Pilaf
Pilaf is a famous Middle Eastern and Central Asian rice dish. Rice is cooked with various vegetables, spices and meat. It is a flavorful, satisfying, and fragrant one-pot meal that can be enjoyed as a main course or side dish.
78. Pilchards
These small fish are often canned in oil or sauce, offering a convenient way to enjoy the rich taste and nutritional benefits. They provide a source of omega-3 fatty acids and are frequently used in a variety of recipes, from spreads to pasta dishes.
79. Pimento
Pimento, also known as allspice, is a spice with a warm and aromatic flavor. It can be used to season a variety of dishes and sauces, both sweet and savory. Its distinctive taste adds depth to recipes.
80. Pimm’s
Pimm’s is a British cocktail. It is made with Pimm’s No. 1, a fruity and herbal liqueur, lemonade, and fresh fruits and herbs – very refreshing.
81. Pine Nuts
These small, creamy nuts have a delicate taste and are often used as toppings or ingredients in various dishes, from salads to pesto. They bring a pleasant crunch and a mild, nutty flavor to dishes, enhancing both texture and taste.
82. Pine mushrooms
These wild mushrooms have a distinctive flavor and texture. Pine mushrooms can be sautéed or used in various culinary applications. Known for their earthy taste, they add a rustic, natural element to dishes, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
83. Pineapple
Pineapple is a tropical fruit with a sweet and juicy taste, enjoyed fresh, in desserts, or as a component in savory dishes. Its tropical essence and vibrant flavor make it a versatile ingredient, whether added to salsas, smoothies, or grilled for a delightful contrast of flavors.
84. Pistachio
In Iran this is sometimes referred to as the “smiling nut” while in China they can be called the “happy nut”. Why? Because when the nut becomes ripe, the shell partially splits open, creating a distinctive “smile”.
85. Pita bread
Used for wraps, sandwiches, or dipping, pita is a foodie favorite worldwide. As it bakes, it puffs up leaving a hollow interior that’s just asking to be filled with the most delicious mixes, such as hummus and vegetables, falafel, Sabich, doner and salad, and much more.
86. Pizza
There’s one for every palate, from the classic Margherita to eccentric creations topped with lobster, caviar, or even gold leaf there are now countless types of pizzas. The first modern pizza was baked in Naples, Italy in the 18th century, but records dating back to the 6th century show soldiers using shields to cook flatbreads with cheese and dates on top.
87. Plantain
A close relative of the humble banana, this tropical fruit looks and tastes somewhat similar. Though, because of its higher starch content, it’s better when it’s cooked. As tostones, maduros or in soup, plantains are thoroughly amazing.
88. Plum
Plums are a great choice when you’re looking for something that’s both sweet and slightly tart. They come in various colors, from dark purple to light yellow and sometimes greenish, and are commonly made into jams and pie fillings.
89. Poached egg
Don’t be intimidated. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare poached eggs. With a gentle simmer in seasoned water, the egg white embraces the runny yolk, creating a delicious little cloud. Place one over avocado on toast or with fresh mozzarella, and you’re golden. For more information, here’s a great guide on how to poach an egg.
90. Poi
On your next visit to Hawaii, make sure to try the local delicacy poi. Taro root is left to ferment then pounded into a creamy paste that is slightly sweet and tangy, similar to yogurt. For the islanders, it represents sustenance and connection to the land.
91. Polenta
This is so simple to make: simmer cornmeal in water or stock until it reaches a creamy consistency. Polenta can be served soft as a porridge or allowed to set and then sliced or grilled. It goes well with cheeses and sauces, and it’s considered a comfort food.
92. Pollock
Pollock is a mild-flavored white fish found in both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. It is a popular and affordable seafood choice with particularly flaky flesh that often gets turned into fish sticks, fish fillets, and surimi.
93. Pomegranate
Juices, salads, sauces, desserts, the pomegranate can do pretty much anything. It can be a tad annoying to open, but once you’ve freed the seeds, your effort will be rewarded.
94. Pomelo
The largest of citrus fruit, pomelo has a thick green or yellow rind and a juicy, sweet or slightly tangy flesh. In some Asian cultures, pomelo is a symbol of good luck and prosperity and is often exchanged as gifts during the Lunar New Year celebrations.
95. Poppy seeds
Both sweet and savory dishes can be improved with a few poppy seeds, from pastries and desserts, to noodle and vegetable dishes. In fact, you can even make a remarkable salad dressing with just a few spoonfuls of poppy seeds, some vinegar, mustard, and honey.
96. Porcini mushrooms
Prized for their rich, earthy flavor, porcini mushrooms often find their way into pasta and risotto dishes. It’s their robust taste that pairs so well with creamy sauces, infusing a distinct and savory aroma.
97. Pork
If you’re a meat eater, pork is likely in your top 3 choices. There are so many dishes of note, but even a simple Pulled Pork Sandwich or a couple of Carnitas Tacos can completely make your day. Next time you need a pick-me-up, how about some pork?
98. Porridge
Porridge has been a staple food for centuries, going back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and China. Today, it’s just as popular because there are so many ways of customizing it.
99. Port wine
The “port” in port wine is not an aquatic reference, it’s just an abbreviation of Portugal, where it is made. Because of the added spirits, generally brandy, it goes well with sweet desserts and strong cheeses.
100. Portobello mushrooms
Known for their meaty texture and taste, the Portobello are a popular option for vegetarian dishes. They hold up well when grilled or roasted and confer a delicious umami flavor to pastas or risottos.
101. Potato
With so much versatility, potatoes have earned themselves the title of the world’s most beloved carb. From comforting mashed dishes to crispy fries, their universal appeal transcends cultures, making them familiar on dinner tables across the globe.
102. Potato salad
Potato salads come in various styles, but always bring people together. The Classic American version suits barbecues, while German Kartoffelsalat accompanies hearty meals. French potato salads, with Dijon mustard, add flair, while Japanese versions feature seaweed and egg.
103. Potato soup
This modest dish comes with many twists: Peruvian chupe de papas is enriched with cheese, eggs, and regional spices; in Portugal, caldo verde blends potatoes with kale, chorizo, and garlic for a vibrant green soup; Japan adds ingredients such as seaweed and tofu. Here’s one of our favorite potato soup recipes.
104. Pound cake
The original English pound cake earned its name from the straightforward formula: a pound each of butter, sugar, eggs, and flour. Over time, creative bakers have come up with modern, and more enticing, recipes such as lemon drizzle and chocolate marble cake.
105. Praline
This quintessential Southern treat was adopted from French cuisine. The magic lies in the caramelization process, where pecans are folded into a rich, sugary mixture, forming a symphony of crunchy nuts enveloped in velvety sweetness.
106. Prawns
These ocean critters have a tender, sweet flesh that lend itself to various cooking methods. Going beyond just seafood platters, prawns are key in recipes such as paella, gumbo, and ceviche.
107. Profiterole
Beginning in France as delicate choux pastry spheres, profiteroles embarked on an international journey. As it travelled, it was transformed into new creations, such as zeppole in Italy, shu cream in Japan, Bola de Berlim in Portugal, and cream puffs in the U.S.
108. Prosciutto
Making fine prosciutto is an art. The process begins with salting ham, followed by air-drying, and meticulous aging, sometimes spanning years. This careful craftsmanship enhances the flavors, yielding thin, translucent slices of savory delight.
109. Prosecco
For your next party or celebration, might we recommend a bottle of delightful Prosecco? This Italian sparkling wine is crisp, fruity, and playfully bubbly, making it a perfect companion for toasts and joyful moments. La Marca is quite popular, while Ruffino is rather zingy.
110. Provolone
If you like gooey cheeses, you’ll love Provolone. Its awesome melting properties make it a perfect choice for sandwiches, burgers, and pizzas. Charcuterie enthusiasts will likely enjoy the smoked version, as it pairs nicely with meats and fruit.
111. Puff pastry
By repeatedly folding and rolling dough with butter, thin and delicate sheets of pastry are formed. When baked, these layers rise, resulting in an incredibly light and airy texture. This is the secret behind Danish pastries and Napoleons.
112. Pumpkin
Pumpkin spice lattes are undeniably divine, but other pumpkin recipes can be equally satisfying, if not better. How about a slice of a beautiful pumpkin pie, with its rich, spiced filling and flaky crust? Perhaps some creamy pumpkin soup?
113. Pumpkin seeds
Pepitas are a common addition to trail mixes, but have you ever tried sprinkling roasted pumpkin seeds over salads, soups, or oatmeal? They give a nutty crunch and nutritional boost.
114. Pumpkin pie
In the United States, pumpkin pie is synonymous with fall and Thanksgiving celebrations. This connection is so strong, that even the astronauts aboard the International Space Station got the chance to savor some freeze-dried pumpkin pie as a treat.
115. Punch
A refreshing bowl of punch is a sure way of getting the party started. The communal nature of this drink, where guests gather around to ladle a serving, always helps spark conversations and create an atmosphere of shared enjoyment.
116. Purée
This culinary technique transforms ingredients into a smooth, velvety consistency, be it fruits or vegetable. Tomato purée forms the base of classic marinara, while roasted red pepper purée adds depth to creamy pasta sauces.
In summary, these P Foods present a diverse range of flavors for you to enjoy. From savory to sweet, there’s something for everyone to try. Whether you’re a food lover or just curious, this list is a great way to start your culinary exploration.
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