Embark on a gastronomic journey with us as we explore the exciting world of food that starts with the letter ‘E’. From everyday essentials to exotic delicacies, the realm of ‘E’ foods is surprisingly diverse and flavorful. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast, a student of gastronomy, or simply looking to expand your food vocabulary, this guide will take you through a delectable assortment of dishes, fruits, vegetables, and more, all beginning with the fifth letter of the alphabet. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer variety and richness of the ‘E’ food universe!
Exciting Dishes Starting With E
Dishes that start with ‘E’ span a wide spectrum of global cuisines, offering a tantalizing glimpse into different cultures and culinary traditions. From comforting classics to adventurous eats, let’s explore some must-try ‘E’ dishes.
Escargot: A French Delicacy
Escargot, a famed French appetizer, features land snails that are cooked and typically served in their shells. Prepared with a rich garlic butter sauce, often infused with parsley and herbs, escargot offers a unique and sophisticated flavor profile. The texture is surprisingly tender, making it an adventurous yet delightful culinary experience. Often enjoyed in fine dining settings, escargot represents a true taste of French gastronomy.
Enchiladas: A Mexican Fiesta of Flavors
Enchiladas are a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, consisting of corn tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients. Common fillings include meat (chicken, beef, or pork), cheese, beans, and vegetables. Once filled, the tortillas are rolled and generously smothered in a chili-based sauce, which can range from mild to spicy, and then baked to perfection. Enchiladas are a versatile and satisfying dish, perfect for family dinners or festive occasions.
Empanadas: Savory Pastries from Spain and Latin America
Empanadas are delightful pastries popular in Spain and throughout Latin America. These savory pockets of dough are filled with diverse ingredients, such as seasoned meat, cheese, vegetables, or even fruits for a sweeter variation. Empanadas can be baked or fried, resulting in a golden, crispy crust that encases a flavorful filling. They are incredibly versatile, serving as excellent snacks, appetizers, or light meals, and are perfect for on-the-go eating.
Egg Salad: A Classic Comfort Food
Egg salad is a timeless and versatile dish made primarily from chopped hard-boiled eggs. The eggs are mixed with mayonnaise, mustard, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and sometimes celery or onion for added texture and flavor. Egg salad is incredibly adaptable; it can be enjoyed as a sandwich filling, served on crackers, or presented on a bed of crisp lettuce for a lighter meal. It’s a protein-rich and satisfying option, beloved for its simplicity and comforting taste.
Egg Rolls: Crispy Chinese-American Appetizers
Egg rolls are a popular Chinese-American appetizer, characterized by their crispy, deep-fried wrappers filled with shredded vegetables and often meat like pork or shrimp. These cylindrical rolls are deep-fried to a golden brown and served hot, typically with a side of soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, or duck sauce for dipping. Egg rolls are a staple in Chinese restaurants and are enjoyed for their satisfying crunch and savory filling.
Eggplant Parmesan: An Italian Vegetarian Delight
Eggplant Parmesan, or Parmigiana di Melanzane, is a classic Italian baked dish. Slices of eggplant are breaded, fried or baked, and then layered with rich tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and fresh basil. This layering process is repeated, and the dish is baked until bubbly and golden brown. Eggplant Parmesan is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian option, celebrated for its rich, cheesy, and savory taste.
Eggs Benedict: An Elegant Brunch Staple
Eggs Benedict is an iconic American breakfast or brunch dish. It consists of poached eggs served atop toasted English muffins and Canadian bacon or ham. The dish is generously drizzled with Hollandaise sauce, a rich and buttery emulsion of egg yolks, butter, and lemon juice. Eggs Benedict is a decadent and indulgent dish, perfect for special occasions or a luxurious weekend brunch.
Egg-Fried Rice: A Versatile Asian Staple
Egg-fried rice is a ubiquitous and beloved dish in many Asian cuisines, particularly Chinese. Cooked rice is stir-fried with scrambled eggs, along with a medley of vegetables such as peas, carrots, and onions. Soy sauce and other seasonings are added to enhance the flavor. Egg-fried rice is incredibly versatile, serving as a side dish or a complete meal when protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu is added. It’s also a fantastic way to utilize leftover rice.
Ebi Tempura: Japanese Seafood Perfection
Ebi tempura is a quintessential Japanese dish featuring shrimp (ebi in Japanese) that are lightly battered and deep-fried. The batter, made from flour, water, and sometimes egg, is crucial for achieving a light and crispy texture. Ebi tempura is typically served hot with a tentsuyu dipping sauce made from dashi, soy sauce, and mirin, often with grated daikon radish and ginger. It’s a delicate and delightful seafood dish, showcasing the Japanese art of tempura.
Escabeche: Tangy Flavors from the Mediterranean and Latin America
Escabeche is a dish found in both Mediterranean and Latin American cuisines, involving cooked fish or meat that is marinated in a tangy, vinegar-based sauce. The marinade often includes onions, carrots, and various spices, imparting a complex and flavorful profile to the main ingredient. Escabeche can be served hot or cold and is appreciated for its bold, tangy, and slightly sour taste, making it a refreshing and flavorful dish.
Egg-Fried Noodles: A Quick and Satisfying Asian Meal
Egg-fried noodles are a popular and convenient dish in various Asian cuisines. Cooked noodles, often egg noodles, are stir-fried with eggs, vegetables like bok choy, bean sprouts, and scallions, and a flavorful sauce composed of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Egg-fried noodles are a quick, easy, and satisfying meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Escalope: European Thin-Cut Meat
Escalope refers to a thin, boneless cut of meat, most commonly veal, but also chicken or pork. The meat is pounded thin to tenderize it and ensure quick cooking. Escalope is often breaded and then pan-fried or sautéed until golden brown and cooked through. It’s a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sauces, such as mushroom sauce or lemon butter sauce, and accompanied by side dishes like potatoes or vegetables.
Exotic and Everyday Fruits Starting With E
The world of fruits that start with ‘E’ is a blend of the familiar and the exotic, each offering unique flavors and nutritional benefits.
Elderberry
Elderberries are small, dark purple berries known for their medicinal properties, particularly their immune-boosting qualities. They have a tart and slightly earthy flavor and are often used in jams, jellies, syrups, and wines. Elderberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them a popular natural remedy for colds and flu.
Emu Apple
Emu apples, native to Australia, are small, green to reddish fruits with a crisp, apple-like texture and a slightly tart, refreshing flavor. They are a traditional food source for Indigenous Australians and are becoming increasingly recognized for their culinary and potential health benefits.
Eureka Lemon
Eureka lemons are a common variety of lemon, known for their year-round availability and high juice content. They are characterized by their bright, acidic flavor and are widely used in cooking, baking, and beverages. Eureka lemons are a staple in kitchens worldwide for their versatility and refreshing zest and juice.
Entawak
Entawak, also known as bangkong or terap, is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, related to jackfruit and breadfruit. It has a spiky rind and a creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy flesh with a distinctive aroma. Entawak is enjoyed fresh or used in desserts in its native region.
Edward Mango
Edward Mangoes are a popular variety of mango, especially in Florida. They are known for their sweet, rich, and slightly spicy flavor with hints of peach and apricot. Edward mangoes have a smooth, fiberless flesh and are prized for eating fresh, as well as for use in desserts and smoothies.
Emu Berry Fruit
Emu Berry fruits are small, purplish-black berries native to Australia. They have a sweet and slightly tangy flavor and were traditionally consumed by Indigenous Australians. They are also attracting attention for their potential antioxidant properties.
European Pear
European pears, including varieties like Bartlett and D’Anjou, are classic pear varieties known for their bell shape, smooth skin, and sweet, juicy flesh. They are enjoyed fresh, baked, poached, or canned, and are a versatile fruit for both sweet and savory dishes.
Emblica fruit (Amla)
Emblica fruit, also known as Amla or Indian Gooseberry, is a small, greenish-yellow fruit revered in Ayurvedic medicine. It is known for its extremely high Vitamin C content and antioxidant properties. Amla has a tart, sour, and slightly bitter taste and is used in pickles, jams, and health supplements.
Elephant Apple Fruit
Elephant Apple fruit, native to Southeast Asia, is a large, round fruit with a thick rind. The flesh is fibrous and sour, and it’s typically used in pickles, chutneys, and curries. Despite its name, it’s not related to apples but is named for its popularity as a food source for elephants.
Eastern Hawthorn Fruit
Eastern Hawthorn fruits are small, red berries produced by the Eastern Hawthorn tree. They have a slightly tart and mildly sweet flavor and are used in jams, jellies, and traditional herbal remedies. Hawthorn berries are known for their potential cardiovascular benefits.
Evergreen Huckleberry
Evergreen Huckleberries are small, dark blue berries found in the Pacific Northwest of North America. They have a tart-sweet flavor, similar to blueberries, and are used in jams, pies, and eaten fresh. They are a wild-harvested berry prized for their unique flavor and antioxidant content.
Essential Vegetables Starting With E
Vegetables that start with ‘E’ offer a range of textures and flavors, from leafy greens to root vegetables, enriching our diets with vital nutrients.
Eggplant (Aubergine)
Eggplant, also known as aubergine, is a versatile vegetable with a spongy texture and mild flavor that readily absorbs other flavors. It comes in various shapes and colors, from the common purple globe eggplant to long, slender Japanese eggplants. Eggplant is used in diverse dishes, from Mediterranean moussaka and Italian eggplant parmesan to Asian stir-fries and curries.
Endive
Endive is a slightly bitter, leafy green vegetable with pale, tightly packed leaves. It’s often used in salads for its crisp texture and slightly nutty flavor that adds depth to mixed greens. Endive can also be braised, grilled, or used as scoops for appetizers.
Edamame
Edamame are young soybeans harvested before they ripen. They are typically steamed or boiled and served in their pods, often sprinkled with salt. Edamame has a mild, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor and is a popular appetizer or snack, rich in protein and fiber.
Escarole
Escarole is a leafy green vegetable belonging to the chicory family. It has broad, slightly curly leaves with a slightly bitter flavor, milder than endive. Escarole is used in salads, soups, and stews, and its bitterness mellows when cooked.
Enoki Mushroom
Enoki mushrooms are long, thin, white mushrooms with small caps, often sold in clusters. They have a mild, delicate flavor and a slightly crunchy texture when raw, becoming more tender when cooked. Enoki mushrooms are used in salads, soups, stir-fries, and hot pots, adding a subtle flavor and unique texture.
Earthnut Pea (Arachis hypogaea)
Earthnut Pea, also known as the peanut, is technically a legume that grows underground. While often referred to as a nut, the peanut pod develops beneath the soil. Peanuts are eaten roasted, boiled, or used to make peanut butter and peanut oil. They are a rich source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamins.
Elephant Garlic
Elephant garlic is not a true garlic but a type of leek that resembles garlic in appearance, with very large cloves. It has a milder and sweeter flavor than garlic, with a hint of onion. Elephant garlic can be roasted, sautéed, or used raw in salads and dips, offering a gentler garlic flavor.
Eddo (Taro Root)
Eddo, also known as taro root, is a starchy root vegetable with a brown, hairy skin and white to purplish flesh. It has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor and a texture similar to potatoes. Eddo needs to be cooked before eating and can be boiled, baked, fried, or mashed, used in soups, stews, and chips.
Elephant Foot Yam
Elephant Foot Yam is a large, starchy tuber with a rough, dark brown exterior and a white to pale yellow interior. It has a mild, earthy flavor and a slightly sticky texture when cooked. Elephant Foot Yam is popular in Indian cuisine, used in curries, pickles, and fried dishes after being properly cooked to remove potential irritants.
Seasonings and Soups Starting With E
‘E’ also marks the beginning of flavorful soups, aromatic herbs, and essential condiments that elevate culinary creations.
Epazote
Epazote is an herb with a strong, pungent aroma and flavor, often described as citrusy, minty, and slightly medicinal. It is commonly used in Mexican cuisine, particularly with black beans, as it is believed to reduce their gas-inducing effects. Epazote is also used to flavor soups, stews, and quesadillas.
English Mustard Powder
English Mustard Powder is a bright yellow powder made from ground mustard seeds, turmeric, and wheat flour. It has a very strong, pungent, and hot flavor. When mixed with water, it creates a potent English mustard condiment, used to add a fiery kick to sandwiches, meats, and sauces.
Ethiopian Berbere Spice Blend
Ethiopian Berbere is a complex and flavorful spice blend central to Ethiopian cuisine. It typically includes chili peppers, garlic, ginger, basil, korarima, rue, ajwain, and black cumin, among other spices. Berbere has a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor profile and is used to season stews (wats), lentils, and various Ethiopian dishes.
Elaichi (Cardamom)
Elaichi, or Cardamom, is a fragrant spice used in both sweet and savory dishes. Green cardamom pods have a warm, aromatic, and slightly citrusy flavor, while black cardamom has a smoky, more intense aroma. Cardamom is used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Scandinavian cuisines, flavoring curries, rice dishes, desserts, and beverages like chai tea.
Elderflower
Elderflower comes from the flowers of the elder tree. It has a delicate, floral, and slightly sweet aroma and flavor. Elderflower is used to make cordials, syrups, teas, and liqueurs, and it adds a refreshing floral note to drinks and desserts.
English Mustard
English Mustard is a prepared mustard known for its intense heat and bright yellow color. Made from mustard powder, vinegar, and sometimes turmeric, it delivers a powerful, pungent flavor. English mustard is a classic condiment for roast beef, sausages, and sandwiches, prized for its strong kick.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus, while primarily known for its medicinal and aromatic uses, is also used in some culinary applications, particularly in teas and as a flavoring agent. Eucalyptus leaves have a strong, camphoraceous, and slightly minty aroma and flavor. In cooking, it’s used sparingly to infuse subtle notes into dishes or beverages.
Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed)
Epimedium, also known as Horny Goat Weed, is primarily used as a traditional herbal medicine and is not typically used as a culinary ingredient for flavor. It’s known for its purported health benefits and is consumed in tea or supplement form.
Edamame Hummus
Edamame Hummus is a variation of traditional hummus, made with edamame instead of chickpeas. It combines edamame, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil into a smooth and creamy dip. Edamame hummus offers a lighter, slightly sweeter flavor than traditional hummus and is served with pita bread, vegetables, or crackers.
Espagnole Sauce
Espagnole Sauce is one of the five classic French mother sauces. It’s a rich brown sauce made from brown stock, roasted bones, mirepoix, and tomato puree, thickened with a brown roux. Espagnole sauce is a foundational sauce used to create other classic sauces like demi-glace and is used in hearty meat dishes.
Egg Drop Soup
Egg Drop Soup is a simple and comforting soup of Chinese origin. It consists of wispy ribbons of beaten eggs cooked in a chicken broth-based soup. It’s often flavored with scallions and white pepper and is a light and soothing soup, commonly served as a starter in Chinese meals.
Egyptian Lentil Soup
Egyptian Lentil Soup is a hearty and flavorful soup made with red lentils, vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery, and spices such as cumin and coriander. It’s often pureed to a smooth consistency and garnished with lemon juice and fresh herbs. Egyptian Lentil Soup is a nutritious and warming soup, popular in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine.
English Pea Soup
English Pea Soup is a classic soup made from fresh or frozen English peas, broth, and sometimes cream or milk for richness. It has a vibrant green color and a sweet, fresh pea flavor. English Pea Soup can be served hot or cold and is often garnished with mint or croutons.
Drinks Starting With E
Quench your thirst with a variety of beverages that begin with ‘E’, from energizing drinks to comforting classics.
Eggnog
Eggnog is a rich and creamy drink traditionally associated with the Christmas season. It’s made with milk, cream, sugar, raw eggs, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Eggnog can be served chilled or warm, and often includes alcohol like rum, brandy, or whisky. It’s a festive and indulgent holiday beverage.
Espresso
Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing hot water under pressure through finely-ground coffee beans. It’s known for its strong, bold flavor and is the base for many coffee drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. Espresso is a popular pick-me-up and a staple in coffee culture worldwide.
English Breakfast Tea
English Breakfast Tea is a robust and full-bodied black tea blend, often a mix of Assam, Ceylon, and Kenyan teas. It’s known for its strong flavor and is traditionally served with milk and sugar. English Breakfast Tea is a popular morning beverage and a classic choice for afternoon tea.
Earl Grey Tea
Earl Grey Tea is a black tea blend flavored with bergamot oil, which gives it a distinctive citrusy and floral aroma and flavor. It’s a lighter and more aromatic black tea compared to English Breakfast and is enjoyed hot, often without milk, to appreciate its delicate bergamot notes.
Energy Drink
Energy Drinks are beverages designed to provide a boost of energy and alertness. They typically contain caffeine, sugar, vitamins, and other stimulants like taurine and guarana. Energy drinks come in various flavors and are popular for combating fatigue and increasing focus, though they should be consumed in moderation due to their high caffeine and sugar content.
Edelweiss Beer
Edelweiss Beer is a brand of Austrian wheat beer (Weissbier). It’s known for its cloudy appearance and refreshing, slightly fruity and spicy flavor, typical of wheat beers. Edelweiss beer is a popular choice, especially in warmer months, offering a lighter and more drinkable alternative to heavier beers.
Egg Cream
Egg Cream is a classic American soda fountain drink, despite containing neither eggs nor cream. It’s made with cold milk, flavored syrup (usually chocolate or vanilla), and carbonated water, creating a frothy, creamy texture. Egg Cream is a nostalgic and refreshing beverage, particularly popular in New York City.
Evian
Evian is a brand of bottled mineral water sourced from Évian-les-Bains, on the shore of Lake Geneva in France. It’s known for its purity and mineral composition and is a widely recognized and consumed brand of bottled water globally.
Delectable Desserts Starting With E
Satisfy your sweet cravings with these ‘E’ desserts, ranging from classic pastries to unique treats.
Eccles Cake
Eccles Cakes are small, round, flaky pastries filled with currants and spices, originating from Eccles, England. They are made from buttery puff pastry and are filled with a mixture of currants, butter, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and allspice. Eccles cakes are often enjoyed warm with butter or cheese, and are a traditional English treat.
Eggo Waffles
Eggo Waffles are a brand of frozen waffles, popular in the United States and Canada. They are pre-cooked, frozen waffles that are toasted before serving. Eggo waffles come in various flavors and are a convenient and quick breakfast option, often served with syrup, butter, or fruit.
Elephant Ears (Palmiers)
Elephant Ears, also known as Palmiers, are crispy, heart-shaped pastries made from puff pastry and sugar. The pastry is rolled out, coated in sugar, folded, and baked until caramelized and golden brown. Elephant Ears have a delicate, crispy texture and a buttery, sweet flavor, making them a simple yet elegant dessert or snack.
Egg Custard Tart
Egg Custard Tarts are sweet tarts filled with a rich custard made from eggs, cream or milk, sugar, and vanilla or nutmeg. The custard is baked in a pastry shell until set and slightly golden on top. Egg Custard Tarts are a classic dessert, enjoyed for their smooth, creamy custard and sweet pastry crust.
Eton Mess
Eton Mess is a traditional English dessert consisting of a mixture of meringue, strawberries, and whipped cream. The meringue is broken into pieces and combined with sliced strawberries and lightly whipped cream. Eton Mess is a simple, light, and refreshing dessert, perfect for summer, with a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
English Trifle
English Trifle is a layered dessert consisting of sponge cake soaked in sherry or fruit juice, fruit (often berries or jam), custard, and whipped cream. It’s typically assembled in a glass dish to showcase the layers. English Trifle is a rich and visually appealing dessert, often served at celebrations and holidays.
Espresso Brownie
Espresso Brownies are chocolate brownies enhanced with the flavor of espresso or coffee. The addition of espresso deepens the chocolate flavor and adds a subtle coffee note. Espresso brownies are rich, fudgy, and intensely chocolatey, with a caffeine kick that complements the sweetness.
Ekmek Kataifi
Ekmek Kataifi is a Greek and Turkish dessert made from shredded phyllo dough (kataifi) soaked in syrup and filled with a creamy custard. The kataifi dough is baked until golden and crispy, then soaked in a sweet syrup and filled with a semolina-based custard. Ekmek Kataifi is a rich, sweet, and textural dessert, combining crispy pastry with creamy filling.
Espasol
Espasol is a Filipino rice cake made from rice flour, coconut milk, and sweetened coconut flakes. It’s cooked until thick and then rolled in toasted rice flour. Espasol has a chewy, slightly sweet, and coconutty flavor and is often sold as a street food snack in the Philippines.
This exploration into foods starting with ‘E’ reveals a fascinating array of culinary delights from across the globe. From everyday staples to exotic treats, the letter ‘E’ opens up a world of exciting flavors and gastronomic adventures. So, next time you’re looking to diversify your palate, remember the expansive and delicious universe of food that starts with ‘E’!
