50+ Foods That Start With The Letter L

Exploring the culinary world often leads to exciting discoveries, especially when it comes to foods that begin with specific letters of the alphabet. In this section, we’ll embark on a gastronomic journey to appreciate the variety of foods that start with L.

Whether you’re a gourmet chef or a casual foodie, exploring these ‘L’ foods can expand your palate and incorporate new, healthful ingredients into your meals. Join us as we delve into more culinary delights that will not only satisfy your hunger but also inspire your next kitchen adventure.

Table of Contents

Fruits That Start With L

We will begin this culinary adventure now, starting with the list of wonderful fruits included in this letter.

Lady Apple – This variety of apples is small and elongated, with a sweet taste and a hint of tartness. It’s often used in salads or as a decorative element in dishes.
Lambkin Melon – This delightful fruit is a cross between a Galia and a cantaloupe, offering a sweet and creamy flavor that’s perfect for a refreshing summer treat.
Langsat – These small, translucent orbs present a sweet and tangy punch, with thin, yellow skin that easily peels away to reveal citrus-like segments within.
Lanseh – Closely related to the Langsat, this tropical fruit is commonly savored for its juicy and slightly acidic taste, which is reminiscent of a bittersweet combination of grapefruit and berries.
Lantana Berries – Often seen accenting the Lantana’s vibrant flowers, these berries are not typically consumed due to their toxic properties and thus, they are not recommended for ingestion.
Last Chance Peaches – Named for their late-season ripeness, these peaches are known for their juicy sweetness, making them a desired variety for canning or enjoying freshness during the waning days of summer.
Lemon Aspen – Hailing from Australia, this pale yellow fruit offers a piquant lemon flavor with a specially unique and aromatic tartness.
Lemon Berry – Despite its name, this special product is not a berry, but it does provide a distinctive sour citrus taste that can add a zesty note to desserts and beverages.
Lemon Cucumber – This heirloom vegetable is valued for its cool, refreshing taste and lemon-like shape, not to be confused with its tangy citrus namesake.
Lemon Drop Melon – This melon tempts with a balance of sweetness and acidity that gives it a flavor profile similar to the citrusy twang of a lemon drop candy.
Lemon Plum – An intriguing variety that morphs from green to a bright lemon-yellow as it ripens, these plums offer a sweet taste with a slight tart edge.
Li Jujube – This small red fruit, resembling a date, is enjoyed for its sweet, apple-like flavor when fresh, and when dried, provides a chewy texture and increased sweetness.
Lilly Pilly – Native to Australia, these bush berries are not only eye-catching with their pink or purple hues but also offer a tart flavor that is often used in jams and jellies.
Limau – Southeast Asia offers this variety of lime, which is widely used for its juice and aromatic zest in cooking and traditional herbal remedies.
Lime – A staple in kitchens around the world, this green citrus fruit is cherished for its tangy and acidic juice, which is a key ingredient in a myriad of dishes and drinks, from key lime pies to mojitos.
Limequats – A hybrid of lime and kumquat, limequats are tiny, oval-shaped citrus fruits with a sweet edible rind and a tart, juicy interior that can be eaten whole or used to flavor beverages and marmalades.
Lingonberry – These small red berries are native to the Scandinavian region and are renowned for their tart flavor, which makes them a perfect complement to sweet and savory dishes alike, including the famous Swedish meatballs.
Lodi Apples – An early summer variety of apples, Lodi are particularly tart and are often used for making applesauce or apple juice.
Loganberry – A hybrid of blackberries and raspberries, loganberries boast a deep red color and a unique tart flavor, making them a choice ingredient for jams, jellies, and pies.
Long Island Cheese Pumpkin – Named for its resemblance to a wheel of cheese, this pumpkin variety is prized for its sweet, firm flesh, making it ideal for pies and other baked goods.
Long Neck Avocados – Known for their elongated shape and smooth, buttery texture, these avocados are a variant that pairs well with toast, and salads, or can be enjoyed on their own with a pinch of salt.
Long Squash – Also known as bottle gourd or calabash, long squash is a versatile vegetable commonly used in Asian cuisine, particularly in stir-fry dishes and soups for its mild flavor and tender texture.
Longan – The longan is a tropical fruit, similar to lychee, with a sweet, floral taste and a translucent flesh that encases a large, shiny seed.
Loquat – These small, yellow-orange fruits have a tangy yet sweet flavor and are consumed fresh, or used in jellies and pies due to their pleasant taste and high pectin content.
Lulo Fruit – Native to northwest South America, lulo is known for its citrus-like flavor with notes of pineapple and lemon, often used in beverages and confections.
Lychee – Hailing from subtropical regions, lychees are valued for their perfume-scented flesh that’s sweet and slightly floral, commonly enjoyed fresh or in exotic desserts.

The world of fruit-bearing the initial ‘L’ is unexpectedly vast and varied, featuring an eclectic array of tastes and textures. Each unique in its own right, they invite us to explore the richness of nature’s bounty and the endless possibilities that arise from integrating them into our diets.

Vegetables That Start With L

Just as the fruit kingdom boasts an abundance of variety among those starting with ‘L’, the vegetable world presents its foods that start with L. Let’s see what’s on our list:

Lamb’s Lettuce – Also known as mâche or corn salad, this tender green’s mild and nutty flavor makes it a favorite for gourmet salads. It pairs excellently with vinaigrette and acts as a luxurious bed for warm goat cheese or roasted beets.
Lambsquarters – A wild relative of the spinach plant, lambs quarters are packed with nutrients and offer a slightly earthy, mineral-rich taste. It’s often foraged and can be used in much the same way as spinach.
Lawyer’s Wig Mushrooms – Known formally as Coprinus comatus or the shaggy mane mushroom, it is cherished by foragers and chefs for its delicate flavor best enjoyed when picked young before it liquefies into an inky substance.
Leaf Beet – Popularly called chard, leaf beet comes in a vibrant rainbow of colors. The leaves are tender and have a flavor resembling that of spinach, whereas the stalks are akin to celery but sweeter.
Leaf Lettuce – This variety includes types such as green leaf, red leaf, and oak leaf lettuces, marked by their soft, delicate leaves and mild flavor which make them an essential component of any mixed green salad.
Leaf Mustard – Offering a peppery kick, leaf mustard, or mustard greens, adds zest to soul food dishes, sautés, and salads. It’s also rich in vitamins A, C, and K.
Leek – Belonging to the onion family, leeks provide a more subtle and slightly sweet flavor. They’re an integral ingredient in leek and potato soup and offer a depth of flavor to stocks and stews.
Lemon Drop Pepper – Named for their resemblance to lemon drops, these small yellow peppers offer a sweet taste followed by a spicy heat. They’re perfect for adding a zesty punch to salsa or for pickling.
Lettuce – A cornerstone of salads worldwide, lettuce comes in a variety of forms ranging from crisp romaine to buttery Boston. Each type offers a unique texture and flavor profile, making lettuce a versatile ingredient for any dish requiring a fresh, crunchy element.
Lilok – Please note that ‘Lilok’ may be a misspelling or a less commonly known local name for a vegetable. Assuming it is an uncommon or regional vegetable, it may boast unique nutritional benefits or culinary uses specific to the area it is grown.
Limestone Lettuce – Also known as Mignonette, this variety of lettuce is delicate, with tender, mildly sweet leaves often used in fine-dining establishments for its visual appeal and subtle flavor that doesn’t overpower other ingredients.
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms – Known for their unique shaggy appearance resembling a lion’s mane, these mushrooms offer a seafood-like flavor, often compared to crab or lobster, and have gained attention for their potential health benefits, including supporting brain health.
Lipstick Pepper – These piquant, sweet red peppers are not just vibrant in color but also in taste; they make an excellent raw snack, salad addition, or a colorful enhancement when roasted or grilled.
Lobster Mushroom – This is a fungi-infected mushroom that takes on the appearance and some say the taste of lobster meat. Lobster mushrooms have a seafood-like aroma and a dense, chewy texture making them a sought-after ingredient for vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Lotus Root – Valued in Asian cuisine for its crunchy texture and mildly sweet taste, lotus root is not only a staple in dishes like stir-fries and soups but is also heralded for its nutritional properties, packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Vegetables beginning with the letter ‘L’ exhibit a rich diversity in taste, texture, and nutritional value. From leafy greens to robust roots, these edibles enhance our culinary experiences and contribute to a well-rounded diet.

Appetizers, Side Dishes, and Snacks That Start With L

Appetizers, side dishes, and snacks that start with ‘L’ promise a delightful prelude to any meal, teasing the palate with their flavors and textures. Let’s indulge in exploring these tasty beginnings that set the stage for a satisfying dining experience.

Lalanga – A savory Turkish street food, Lalanga is often described as a light and crispy fried bread. Made with yeast dough and sometimes enhanced with herbs or cheeses, this snack is a guilty pleasure dipped in yogurt or eaten plain.
Lavash – This soft, thin unleavened bread hails from Armenian cuisine and is famously versatile. Whether wrapping a kebab or serving as a base for crackers, Lavash is a staple in many Middle Eastern meals.
Lefse – A traditional Norwegian flatbread made from potatoes, flour, and milk or cream. Lefse is often rolled thin and cooked on a hot griddle, served with butter and sugar, or as a wrap for savory fillings.
Liederkranz – An American cheese inspired by German Limburger, Liederkranz boasts a strong aroma with a mild, creamy taste. This cheese brings character to cheese platters and is a savory delight for lovers of pungent cheeses.
Limba – While Limba is not a widely recognized term for a specific appetizer, side dish, or snack, this could refer to a regional or locally known food item, potentially bringing its unique qualities to the table.
Limburger – A cheese known for its pungent odor, Limburger is soft with a tangy, earthy flavor. Its assertive nature adds a bold touch to sandwiches and cheese boards, particularly when paired with onions and dark rye bread.
Liver Cheese Aka Leberkäse – Despite its name, this Bavarian specialty contains neither liver nor cheese. It’s a meatloaf with a fine, smooth texture, typically served warm with mustard or used in sandwiches.
Loaf – While not specific, ‘loaf’ can imply bread, meatloaf, or even loaf-style desserts. In any form, this shape of food denotes comfort and familiarity, and it serves as a hearty side or the star of a casual meal.

Whether you’re looking for a light bite to stimulate your appetite or a complementary side to round out your meal, the ‘L’ category offers an array of choices suited for any occasion.

Condiments and Spices That Start With L

One of the things that has a lot of L’s beginning are condiments and spices. There are many widely used condiments and spices starting with the letter L. Let’s take a look at the list of condiments and spices starting with the letter L right now:

Lard – Traditionally used in both cooking and baking, lard is a culinary fat rendered from pig fat. It contributes to flaky pie crusts and tender biscuits and can be used for frying due to its high smoke point.
Lavender – As a highly fragrant herb, lavender is best known for its soothing aroma but also adds a distinctive floral flavor to desserts, teas, and syrups.
Lekvar – A thick jam or fruit butter of Eastern European origin, lekvar is primarily made from apricots or prunes and is a popular filling in pastries, such as cookies and hamantaschen.
Lemon Balm – A herb belonging to the mint family, lemon balm has a mild lemon scent and is used in teas, to flavor dishes, and in aromatherapy for its calming effects.
Lemon Basil – With its lemony flavor and aromatic fragrance, lemon basil is an excellent addition to salads, and marinades, and is a key herb in certain Southeast Asian dishes.
Lemon Curd – A sweet, tart, and creamy spread made from lemon juice, eggs, sugar, and butter, lemon curd is a quintessential British teatime condiment and versatile in desserts.
Lemon Verbena – Valued both for its citrusy scent and flavor, lemon verbena is often used to infuse various dishes and beverages and is thought to have digestive and calming properties.
Lemongrass – A staple in Asian cuisine, lemongrass provides a lemony flavor without tartiness, can be used in teas, soups, and marinades, and is believed to have health benefits such as relieving stress and insomnia.
Licorice Root – Known for its sweet, anise-like flavor, licorice root is often used in candy, is a vital ingredient in many traditional medicines, and can also be brewed as tea.
Lime Mint – This bright, citrus-flavored mint variety is perfect for adding a refreshing twist to drinks, salads, and Middle Eastern dishes.
Lovage – An herb with a flavor profile reminiscent of celery, lovage is utilized in soups, stews, and salads for its ability to impart a savory depth.

The colorful world that begins with the letter L of spices contributes a lot to making dishes more fragrant and delicious.

Legumes and Vegetarian That Start With L

Exploring the realm of legumes and vegetarian options that start with the letter ‘L’ introduces us to an assortment of nutrient-rich and environmentally sustainable picks.

Latke – A beloved Jewish cuisine staple, Latke is a potato pancake that’s traditionally served during Hanukkah. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these are often accompanied by applesauce or sour cream.
Legume – The term ‘legume’ encompasses a family of plants that produce a pod with seeds inside. Rich in protein and fiber, legumes are an essential part of vegetarian diets, including beans, lentils, chickpeas, and peanuts.
Lentil – Lentils are a powerhouse legume packed with protein, fiber, and minerals while being low in fat. They’re incredibly versatile in the kitchen, forming the foundation of dishes like soups, stews, and salads.
Lima Bean – These creamy white beans, also known as butter beans, are named after the city of Lima, Peru. They’re a nutritious addition to soups, stews, and casseroles.
Linguine – A type of pasta similar to fettuccine but narrower, linguine is commonly served with seafood or pesto sauces.
Lomein – An essential in Chinese cuisine, lo mein consists of wheat flour noodles stir-fried with vegetables and, often, meat or seafood.
Long Beans – Also known as yardlong beans, these legumes can grow up to 18 inches long and are a staple in Asian cuisines. They’re typically chopped and stir-fried with spices and other ingredients.
Lupin Beans – Hailing from the Mediterranean, these beans are noted for their high protein and fiber content. They can be eaten as a snack, often pickled, or used in similar ways to other legumes in recipes.

These foods cater not only to those seeking plant-based protein sources but also to culinary enthusiasts eager to expand their palate with naturally wholesome ingredients.

Meat Dishes That Start With L

Embarking on a culinary journey through meat dishes that commence with the letter ‘L’ unveils a spectrum of hearty flavors and traditional preparations. Let’s discover some of these savory foods that start with L.

Lahmacun – Often dubbed as Turkish pizza, lahmacun is a crispy thin flatbread topped with a flavorful blend of minced meat, typically lamb or beef, combined with herbs and spices, then baked to perfection.
Lamb – A staple in many cuisines around the world, lamb is prized for its tenderness and rich, distinctive flavor, which can be prepared in various ways including roasting, grilling, and stewing.
Lancashire Hotpot – This traditional English dish hails from the northwest county of Lancashire and features slow-cooked lamb or mutton with onions, topped with sliced potatoes that crisp up during baking.
Land Snails – Known as escargot in French cuisine, land snails are considered a delicacy and are often cooked with garlic butter, and herbs, and sometimes stuffed back into their shells for presentation.
Lasagna – A beloved Italian dish, lasagna consists of layers of pasta sheets alternated with sauces, cheese, meat, vegetables, or seafood, then baked till bubbling and golden brown on top.
Leberkase – Leberkäse is a German meatloaf with a fine and smooth texture, typically baked in a bread loaf-shaped pan and commonly enjoyed warm with mustard.
Linguica – A type of Portuguese smoked sausage, linguica is seasoned with garlic and paprika, offering a somewhat spicy flavor that’s great in sandwiches or as an accent in stews and soups.
Liver – Rich in nutrients, the liver can come from various animals including chicken, beef, and pork, and is often prepared sauteed, grilled, or used in pâtés and spreads.
Liverwurst – Also known as liver sausage, liverwurst is a soft, spreadable sausage made from liver along with other meats and spices, popular in Europe and deli sandwiches in the U.S.
Llama – As a novel meat choice in some parts of the world, llama is lean and tender, typically found in stews and other slow-cooked dishes within South American cuisine.
Lobscouse – Originating from Northern Europe, lobscouse is a hearty stew made with meat, typically beef or lamb, and vegetables, and often served with pickled beets and rye bread.
Loin – This prime cut of meat can come from pork, beef, or lamb and is known for its tenderness and flavor, particularly spectacular when roasted or grilled to perfection. Sometimes referred to twice, possibly to emphasize its versatility and popularity.
London Broil – Not a cut but a method of preparation, London broil refers to marinated beef flank or round steak, broiled or grilled and then thinly sliced across the grain, famous for its robust flavor.

These meats are treasured across various cultures for their distinctive taste and the comforting warmth they offer to every meal.

Seafood That Starts With L

Diving into the ocean’s bounty brings us to the ‘L’ section of the culinary sea chart. From the shimmering scales to the whispering waves, foods that start with L of the sea are a deluge of delightful flavors waiting to be savored.

Lady Fish – Exhibiting a slender form and noteworthy agility, the ladyfish is a coastal delicacy often enjoyed for its delicate flesh and mild taste, perfect for light sautéing or grilling.
Lake Trout – Freshwater anglers prize the lake trout, a fish that thrives in the cold depths of northern lakes. Its rich, oily meat is ideal for smoking or baking and pairs wonderfully with earthy seasonings.
Land Snails – A lesser-known treasure of the sea, land snails offer a unique taste experience, commonly served in Asian dishes where they are appreciated for their chewy texture and ability to absorb surrounding flavors.
Langouste – Known also as the spiny lobster, langouste stands out for its luxurious meat which is most succulent in the tail. It can be grilled, steamed, or used in rich, creamy seafood dishes.
Littleneck Clams – The smallest and most flavorful variety of hard-shell clams, littlenecks are a seafood staple often steamed, featured in clam bakes, or served raw on the half shell.
Limpets – These small marine snails with conical shells are enjoyed for their simplicity and are often plucked fresh from the rocks, cooked quickly, and eaten with a dab of butter or lemon.
Lingcod – A Pacific favorite, lingcod is distinguished by its lean, firm texture and mild flavor that makes it a versatile ingredient for a variety of cooking styles, from fish and chips to elegant sautéed filets.
Lionfish – Despite being an invasive species, the lionfish is gaining a spot on the menu due to its delicate, buttery flesh, commonly prepared through baking or frying to minimize its venomous spines.
Lobscouse – A nod to the seafaring heritage, lobscouse is a hearty sailors’ stew with origins in Northern Europe, typically featuring salted meat or fish, and often served with ship’s biscuit or hardtack.
Lobster – The king of crustaceans, lobster is a celebrated centerpiece with succulent meat housed in a hard shell, often steamed or boiled and served with butter, or featured in luxurious dishes.
Lobster Bisque – A rich and creamy concoction, lobster bisque is a sophisticated soup that brings the essence of lobster to the fore, typically enhanced with a splash of brandy or sherry.
Lobster Risotto – An elegant comfort dish, lobster risotto marries the hearty, creamy nuances of Arborio rice with the delicate flavor of lobster, often topped with parmesan and fresh herbs.
Lox – An iconic Jewish delicatessen item, lox refers to a brined salmon filet that is typically thinly sliced and served on bagels with cream cheese, capers, and onions.
Lutefisk – Stemming from Nordic tradition, lutefisk is made from aged stockfish and lye, resulting in a gelatinous texture that is cherished by some for its uniqueness and history.

These marine treats are not only a source of high-quality protein but also provide essential nutrients beneficial for health.

Desserts That Start With L

Venturing into the sweeter side of the culinary world, let’s explore an array of delightful desserts that start with the letter ‘L’. There are:

Lady Finger – Also known as Savoiardi, ladyfingers are light and sweet sponge biscuits that are a versatile component in many desserts, often used to line the bowls of trifle or as the building blocks of the classic tiramisu.
Lardy Cake – A traditional British teatime treat made with rendered lard, flour, sugar, spices, and dried fruit, the lardy cake is rich and aromatic, with a flaky texture and a sweet, spiced flavor that’s undeniably indulgent.
Lemon Bars – A delightful combination of a buttery shortbread crust and a tangy lemon custard filling, lemon bars are a refreshing dessert that balances sweetness with the bright zest of citrus.
Lemon Cookies – These zesty treats are crisp, chewy, or cake-like, infused with the essence of lemon to create a delectably tangy sweet that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea.
Lemon Meringue Pie – With its flaky pie crust, lemon custard filling, and a fluffy, toasted meringue topping, this pie is a symphony of textures and flavors, adored for its balance of tartness and sweetness.
Licorice – A candy flavored with the extract of the licorice plant, it presents itself as chewy twists, ropes, or various other shapes and is recognized for its distinctive deep, earthy sweetness.
Lime Pie – Similar to its lemon counterpart, the lime pie is equally refreshing, often featuring a graham cracker crust and a creamy, tart lime filling, crowned with whipped cream or meringue.
Linzer Cookies – These traditional Austrian cookies are a delightful sandwich of rich, buttery shortbread filled with sweet preserves, typically raspberry, and distinguished by a cut-out design on the top layer.
Linzer Tart – The tart version of the Linzer cookie, this pastry boasts a crumbly crust filled with nutty frangipane and a layer of tart jam and is often latticed with strips of dough over the top.
Lollipop – A universal childhood favorite, lollipops are hard candy mounted on a stick, available in a dizzying array of flavors, shapes, and colors, and often enjoyed as a long-lasting sweet treat.
Lozenge – Traditionally medicinal, lozenges now come in candy form too, providing a sweet or tart taste sensation while dissolving slowly on the tongue.
Lucky Charms – Though primarily a cereal, the marshmallows from Lucky Charms have become a fun, sugary addition to various desserts, including cookies, cakes, and snack mixes.

Each of these confections not only satisfies the sweet tooth but also carries a story, tradition, or a unique twist that has allowed it to be cherished across different cultures and palates.

Beverages That Start With L

Quenching thirst and pleasing taste buds, beverages are an integral part of culinary enjoyment. When we look at drinks that begin with the letter ‘L’, we embark on a diverse journey through flavors and traditions from various corners of the globe.

Lassi – A refreshing yogurt-based drink popular in India and Pakistan, lassi can be spiced or sweetened and may contain fruit like mango or rosewater for added flavor.
Latte – A staple in coffee houses everywhere, the latte combines espresso with steamed milk and a light layer of foam, often serving as a customizable canvas for various flavors and artful barista creations.
Lemonade – A classic refreshment, lemonade is the epitome of summer in a glass, made with lemon juice, water, and sugar; its sweet-tart profile is beloved by all ages.
Liebfraumilch – This German white wine, hailing primarily from the regions of Rheinhessen and Pfalz, carries a semi-sweet taste and is typically made from varieties like Müller-Thurgau or Morio-Muscat.
Limeade – The zesty cousin to lemonade, limeade offers a more tart and invigorating flavor, providing a perfect balance of sweetness with the distinct kick of lime.
Limoncello – Originating from Italy, limoncello is a vibrant lemon liqueur crafted by infusing lemon zest into high-proof alcohol, resulting in a rich, citrusy digestif that’s often served chilled.
Liqueur – Liqueurs are potent and sweet spirits infused with a range of flavors from fruits, herbs, and spices, to nuts, commonly enjoyed as a digestif, a cocktail ingredient, or a decadent pour-over dessert.
Liquor – Distilled beverages with a high alcohol content, liquors come in various forms, including whiskey, vodka, rum, gin, and tequila; they are often enjoyed neat or as part of a cocktail.
Long Island Iced Tea – This deceptive cocktail is made by combining several different liquors with cola and lemon juice to create a drink that bears no resemblance to its namesake but packs a serious punch.
Lynchburg Lemonade – Hailing from Lynchburg, Tennessee, the birthplace of Jack Daniel’s, this concoction is a spirited mix of whiskey, triple sec, lemon juice, and a splash of soda, making for a tantalizing twist on traditional lemonade.

These drinks not only quench our thirst but also serve as a testament to the cultural richness that can be sipped and savored, one delightful glass at a time.

Conclusion

In our culinary journey through the lexicon of foods that start with L, we have uncovered a luscious variety of treats and beverages that span the spectrum from the light and zesty to the rich and indulgent.

They are icons of culture, celebrations of tradition, and inventions of creativity. These are the flavors that enliven our palates and enrich our experiences.

As we explore the alphabet’s offerings, let’s remember to delight in these tastes, and take the time to savor the stories they tell.

Foods That Start With L