70 Foods That Start With B

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure.

Have you ever wondered how many foods begin with the letter B? I bet there’s more than you initially thought. From bananas to butternut squash, bolognese to baked Alaska, this list of foods that start with B has got you covered!

We are continuing our series of posts providing you with lists of foods from A-Z. Can you believe I found 70 foods that began with A in our last post? This time we are taking a look at foods starting with the letter b. If you need inspiration, keep reading to see 70 foods beginning with B starting with fruits and vegetables all the way to some very unique beverages.

Fruits and Vegetables that Start with a B

1. Bell Peppers

What are bell peppers?

Even though bell peppers are often cooked as a vegetable, they are actually a type of fruit. Bell peppers are native to Central and South America and related to chili peppers and tomatoes. 

What do bell peppers taste like?

These peppers are available in various colors from green to red. Green peppers are slightly bitter in flavor as they aren’t ripe yet. With orange, yellow, and red having more of a sweet pepper taste. 

They are brilliant to add an extra crunch on top of salads or can be cooked in a range of meals from burritos to stuffed peppers.

Are bell peppers healthy?

Bell peppers, also called sweet peppers or capsicums, can be eaten raw or cooked. They are low in calories and high in vitamin C.

Recipes to Try!

Black Bean Quesadillas with Pepper Jack Cheese

Taco Stuffed Peppers with Avocado Lime Sauce

2. Bananas

What are bananas?

Bananas are native to Southeast Asia and are considered one of the world’s most popular fruits. Bananas grow on a plant that grows up to 15meters tall. They grow in clusters of 50-150bananas. They start green in color but turn yellow when they ripen. They are so common you can find them at almost any grocery store in the world!

What do bananas taste like?

As bananas ripen, they turn yellow. The more yellow, the sweeter they become as the starch in bananas turns to sugar. Once the skin is peeled, bananas are soft to eat and very sweet once ripe.

Bananas are extremely versatile and eaten both raw and cooked. They are great frozen and then blended as smoothies, sliced on the top of pancakes, or eaten as a healthy snack. Alternatively, they can be cooked in muffins, bread, or roasted for a crunchy yet sweet porridge topping.

Are bananas healthy?

Bananas contain a high amount of fiber and antioxidants. They have been linked to helping maintain people’s blood sugar levels and reducing appetite between meals.

Recipes to try!

Banana Blueberry Bread

Banana Bread Without Butter

Strawberry Banana Smoothie

How To Make Oatmeal Taste Good

3. Bok Choy

What is bok choy?

Bok choy is a type of Asian green, known as Chinese white cabbage or pak choi. It is extremely popular in Asian cuisine and is native to China.

It looks almost bulb-shaped at the bottom with long green leaves growing from the white stems.

What does bok choy taste like?

Bok choy tastes very similar to spinach and can be eaten raw in salads or makes a great bulking ingredient in stir-fries. It is particularly tasty when paired with a soy sauce or maple syrup-based sauce and is often served with noodles.

Is bok choy healthy?

This cabbage-like vegetable is highly nutritious, full of fiber, vitamins C and E, minerals, and quercetin which helps reduce inflammation.

Recipes to try!

Indian Bok Choy Sabji

4. Butternut Squash

What is butternut squash?

Though similar to a traditional pumpkin, butternut squash grows on a vine in a long, oblong shape. Like a pumpkin, it has a hard, inedible skin with a slightly softer, bright orange flesh. 

What does butternut squash taste like?

Butternut squash has a sweeter flavor than pumpkin, so it tastes really nice. Either roast the butternut squash in two halves, or you can dice and add to soups, stews, chili or pureed.

Is butternut squash healthy?

Butternut squash originated between North and South America and is full of vitamins A and C, Omega 6, and Omega 3. 

When preparing butternut squash, cut off the top and the bottom, then remove the pulp and seeds. Wash away the pulp and dry the seeds. The seeds are full of protein and healthy fats. 

Recipes to try

Butternut Squash and Chickpea Curry

Butternut Squash Chili

5. Bamboo Shoots

What are bamboo shoots?

Bamboo shoots are often eaten in Asian dishes such as stir-fries. They are young shoots of bamboo, which are harvested at 2 weeks. 

What do bamboo shoots taste like?

The outside of bamboo is hard to chew and woody in flavor. When preparing, you must peel the outer layer. Bamboo shoots need to be detoxified either by boiling in water or marinating in vinegar, or soy sauce. They have a very mild taste and are usually added to stir-fries to provide a crunchy texture, rather than for their flavor.

Are bamboo shoots healthy?

Bamboo shoots once detoxified can be very healthy for you. They contain protein, amino acids, vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, E, and B6.

6. Brussels Sprouts

What are brussel sprouts?

Brussel sprouts are related to kale, cauliflower, and mustard greens. They look like mini cabbages themselves and are low in calories but high in nutrients.

What do brussel sprouts taste like?

Brussel sprouts can be quite bitter and have a slight nutty flavor. Brussel sprouts can be prepared in a variety of ways. They can be steamed, sauteed, roasted, boiled, or stir-fried!

Are brussel sprouts healthy?

Brussel sprouts are have many health properties! They are high in fiber, minerals, and vitamins such as vitamin C and K.

Recipes to try!

Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts

7. Black Cherry

What are black cherries?

Black cherry trees are native to Eastern, North America. They are round with a stone in the middle.

What do black cherries taste like?

Black cherries are sweeter than red cherries and are softer in texture. They are called black cherries as they turn a deep, black color when the fruit is ripe. 

They provide a bitter-sweet taste and can be eaten raw but also tasty in pies, jams, and gateaux.

Are black cherries healthy?

Black cherries are high in nutrients, antioxidants, and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Recipes to try!

Cherry Pie With Frozen Cherries

8. Bitter Orange

What are bitter oranges?

Also known as sour orange or Seville orange, bitter oranges are a type of citrus fruit. They originated from Southeast Asia but are now grown as far as South Africa and the Caribbean. 

What do bitter oranges taste like?

Bitter oranges are very bitter. They have a thick, dimpled peel with segments inside. 

Due to their sour taste, they often aren’t eaten raw as a healthy snack. They are made into marmalade which is used on toast, crackers, and to glaze the meat. 

Are bitter oranges healthy?

Yes! They are high in vitamin C and antioxidants.

9. Beach Plum

What are beach plums?

Beach plums taste almost like regular plums but are tarter and smaller. They grow to the size of a cherry on a bush and turn from red to purple when ripe. 

What do beach plums taste like?

They taste similar to a mix of strawberries, plums, and apricots. Beach plums are used to make wine, jam, jelly, and cordial. 

Are beach plums healthy?

Beach plums are rich in vitamin C along with potassium, calcium, and phosphorus.

10. Basil

What is basil?

Basil is a type of green herb originating from Asia and Africa. There are many different varieties such as sweet basil, Thai basil, and holy basil. But the most common type for cooking is sweet basil. 

What does basil taste like?

Basil is sweet in flavor, similar to a combination of mint and pepper. It is a key ingredient for making pesto, adding to pizza sauce, soups, salads, or used as a garnish. It can be dried or used fresh when cooking. 

Is basil healthy?

Basil is full of antioxidants which are suggested to reduce depression, blood pressure, and even prevent certain cancers. 

Recipes to try!

Vegetarian Zucchini Lasagna

11. Beetroot

What is beetroot?

Beetroot is a root vegetable with a deep purple color.

What does beetroot taste like?

Beetroot has an earthy and slightly bitter taste.

Beetroot can be eaten raw in salads, blended to make hummus, smoothies, juice, or, if cooked, can be roasted and sauteed. If you boil beetroot, some of the nutrients may seep into the water so it’s best to steam, roast or sautee it if you want to cook it.

Is beetroot healthy?

It is a great sauce of fiber, potassium, and iron. Eating beetroot has been linked to lowering blood pressure and maintaining a healthy weight.

12. Blackberries

What are blackberries?

Blackberries are native to Europe and grow on a thorny bush. They look similar to raspberries in appearance but turn black when ripe with a purple tinge. 

What do blackberries taste like?

When unripe, they have a bitter taste, but when ripened are soft, juicy, and sweet.

Blackberries are often eaten raw, added to yogurt, salads, smoothies, pies, or made into jam.

Are blackberries healthy?

They are high in vitamins C, A, K, and fiber. 

13. Blueberries

What are blueberries?

Native to North America, blueberries are round with a deep blue color. 

What do blueberries taste like?

Blueberries are sweet in flavor, similar to grapes, and can be eaten raw, added to muffins, tarts, yogurt, or smoothies.

Are blueberries healthy?

They are full of antioxidants and are linked to reducing the risk of several diseases. Studies have shown they support skin health, lower blood pressure, and improve mental health.

Recipes to try!

Blueberry Bread

Blueberry Smoothie

14. Boysenberries

What are boysenberries?

Originally from California, boysenberries are a hybrid berry mix of raspberries, blackberries, and loganberries. 

What do boysenberries taste like?

They are sweet with a slight tart flavor. They can be eaten raw, cooked in pies, added to salads, or made into jams and sauces.

Are boysenberries healthy?

Boysenberries are high in vitamin C and manganese. 

15. Broccoli

What is broccoli?

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable like kale, cauliflower, and brussel sprouts. It looks similar to a mini tree and can be eaten raw or cooked. 

What does broccoli taste like?

Broccoli on its own has an earthy, slightly bitter flavor. It tastes great in salads but can also be cooked in quiche, pies, pasta, curries, stir fries, or sauteed as a side vegetable.

Is broccoli healthy?

Broccoli is full of antioxidants which help to reduce inflammation and support healthy cells. When cooked, it does reduce its nutritional value, especially vitamin C. 

Recipes to try!

Tofu Broccoli with Sesame Noodles

Healthy Baked Potatoes

16. Black Limes

What are black limes?

Known as a loomi in the Middle East, black limes are small and oval. They are almost black and are hard in texture. The flesh is dry and dark brown/black. 

What do black limes taste like?

Black limes are fresh limes that are boiled in salt water and left to dry in the sun. Popular in Persian cuisine, the dried fruit is tart and tangy, with a smoky flavor.

Black limes can be used whole or ground when cooking. They are used to flavor meat, drunk as Loomi tea, added to soups and quinoa. 

Are black limes healthy?

Black limes are full of vitamins such as vitamin C and D and have anti-cancer properties.

17. Bush Tomato

What are bush tomatoes?

Bush tomatoes are also known as determinate tomatoes. They are great for growing in pots and depending upon the variety can grow either 2-3 feet tall or up to 5feet tall.

Varieties of bush tomato include Italian Roma, Milano plum, New Yorker, and Sweet tangerine.

What do bush tomatoes taste like?

They can taste earthy with a strong aftertaste. Bush tomatoes go well in tomato sauce for curries, salsas, soup, and relishes. 

Are bush tomatoes healthy?

They are rich in iron and contain a variety of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, zine, and calcium.

18. Bean Sprouts

What are bean sprouts?

Bean sprouts are a vegtable made from sprouting beans. There are several varieties of bean sprouts with the most common ones being from capped mung beans and soybeans. They are often added to stir-fries, salads, and noodles to give an extra crunch.

What do bean sprouts taste like?

Bean sprouts have a slight nutty taste, but have a high water content so their flavor is very mild. They are typically added to meals for their crunchy texture. Bean sprouts can be eaten raw, but are recommended to be cooked as they can contain bacteria. By cooking bean sprouts, you kill off any potential bacteria.

Are bean sprouts healthy?

They are low in calories and high in vitamin C. 

Recipes to Try!

Vegetable Stir Fry

19. Blood Orange

What are blood oranges?

Originally grown in Sicily and Spain, Blood oranges are a type of citrus fruit. They look similar to a regular orange, but with red/brown segments inside.

What do blood oranges taste like?

Blood oranges are sweeter than other oranges and less tangy. They also grow with fewer seeds in each segment. 

This citrus fruit can be eaten raw, juiced, added in cocktails and salads (or the juice will work in salad dressings), or made into sorbet and to flavor cakes.

Are blood oranges healthy?

They are high in vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and low in calories.

20. Butternut Lettuce

What is butternut lettuce?

Butternut lettuce is a type of lettuce with varieties such as Bibb lettuce and Boston lettuce. It has a loose, round-shaped head and is soft in texture. 

What does butternut lettuce taste like?

This variety of lettuce is mild in flavor and sweet. Butternut lettuce can be eaten raw in salad and goes well with a citrus and honey dressing.

Is butternut lettuce healthy?

It is full of vitamin C, A, K, calcium, and iron. 

21. Bacuri

What is bacuri?

Bacuri is native to the Amazon and grows on the bacuri tree from Colombia down to Paraguay.

It has thick, yellow, mottled skin and is round in shape. When the skin is cut, it reveals a white pulp that has around 3-5 seeds. 

What does bacuri taste like?

Bacuri is best eaten fresh and has a sweet, yet sour taste. It can be made into ice cream, jam, and jelly.

Is bacuri healthy?

Bacuri can be beneficial when made into a butter for your skin. It can help to reduce acne, rashes, and scarring.

22. Bilimbi

What is bilimbi?

Originating in Indonesia and Malaysia, bilimbi is a yellow/green fruit. This fruit grows in a long oblong shape and when cut, reveals a 5-point star. 

Bilimbi looks very similar to a gherkin and is also known as a tree cucumber or belimbing. 

What does bilimbi taste like?

Due to its sour taste, it is good for making pickles, relish, and chutney. Locally in Southeast Asian Countries, it is used for adding flavor in dals, curries, and soups.

Is bilimbi healthy?

This tropical fruit is rich in vitamins A, B, and C.

23. Birds Eye Chili

What are bird’s eye chilis?

Known for their heat, bird’s eye chilies are a type of chili pepper with a heat level between jalapeno and habanero. They are also known as Thai chili and are round in shape.

What do bird’s eye chilis taste like?

Bird’s eye chilies are available in either green or red, with green being milder in heat and red being hotter. Bird’s eye chilies can be used in sauces, pasta, soups, chilis, and curries.

Are bird’s eye chilis healthy?

They are full of antioxidants, vitamin C, and B6.

24. Breadfruit

What is breadfruit?

Breadfruit is native to the South Pacific and part of the mulberry family. It is prickly green on the outside, with white flesh on the inside. 

What does breadfruit taste like?

It is a starchy fruit, similar to a potato, and is eaten as you would use rice or sweet potato.

Breadfruit can be eaten raw and is sweet when ripe, but is most commonly used in soups and stews.

Is breadfruit healthy?

Breadfruit contains omega 3 and 6, plus a number of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A and C.

Snacks, Condiments, and Spices that Start with B

25. Black Pepper

Black pepper is a common spice used all over the world. It is made from ground peppercorns, which are the dried berries from the Piper Nigrum plant. 

It is high in antioxidants and linked to improving gut health. 

With a mild, spicy flavor, it can be used in pretty much everything. It’s great for seasoning all dishes – from salads and omelets to soups and stews. 

26. Black Beans

Black beans are also known as turtle beans due to their hard shell appearance. They are the edible seed of a plant that is native to South and Central America. 

These beans are high in fiber which helps to prevent constipation and are also high in protein. They are often used in stews, soups, and made into burgers, dips, and salads, and served with rice.

27. Blue Cheese

Blue cheese is a range of different cheese with a blue mold and veining in the cheese. Most common varieties are stilton, roquefort, and gorgonzola.

The type of mold that grows on the cheese is not toxic to our health like white or black mold. It is a specific strain of Penicillium that doesn’t produce toxins and is safe for us to eat.

Blue cheese has a very strong taste and smell. It is creamy in texture and can be slightly salty. It is eaten in chunks, used to make a tart, pasta sauce, as a pizza topping, in pies, added to a vegetarian charcuterie board, or added to salads.

28. Brown Sugar

Brown sugar comes from sugarcane and sugar beet plants, the same as white sugar. But unlike white sugar, brown sugar goes through less processing to retain molasses.

Brown sugar is higher in calcium, iron, and potassium. It also has slightly fewer calories than white sugar. 

It is used in a range of meals from sweet pancakes and biscuits to sticky savory sauces such as sweet and sour and BBQ sauce.

29. Broad Bean

Broad beans are green legumes that grow in pods. Usually, you do not eat the outer casing as it is tough and bitter. But once opened, the beans are sweet and soft inside.

They are high in protein, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It has been suggested that when eaten regularly, they can help boost your immune system by enhancing the activation of antioxidants in your body. 

Broad beans are highly versatile and can be cooked in chili and stews, mashed, or even added to salads.

30. Beechnut

This nut is part of the beech family and can be found in Asia, Europe, Canada, and North America.

Beechnuts grow inside a soft, spiny husk that contains 1-7 nuts. They are triangular and have a brown casing that needs removing. Once removed, it reveals a small, white round nut.

They are sweet and full of vitamins B6, B2, and B9. Beechnuts provide a high source of healthy fats and protein.

If eating beechnuts, it is recommended to roast them first to improve their flavor and remove toxins.

Beechnut leaves can also be eaten in salads and the seeds, once dried, can be ground into flour or made into oil for dressing salads.

31. Balsamic Vinegar

Originally made in Italy, balsamic vinegar is available all over the world. Traditional balsamic vinegar is made with grape juice that is concentrated and fermented for 12 years inside different wood barrels to lead to different flavors. It produces a dark syrup with a sweet and rich flavor.

Modern balsamic vinegar, which you find in supermarkets, combines grape juice with wine vinegar to help speed up the acidification process. This makes it cheaper to produce and hence commercially available.

It can be used as a dressing over salads and fruit, but also as a dipping sauce for bread, and can be cooked with meat, fish, and even this vegan meatloaf.

32. Buckwheat Flour

Buckwheat flour offers a good alternative to wheat flour as it is gluten-free. It is made from grinding buckwheat, which is a fruit, not a grain.

The whole plant is harvested and dried. When the outer husk is removed, the fruit inside is used to make buckwheat flour.

It has a nutty flavor and is highly versatile and used differently depending upon the country. In Japan, buckwheat flour is used to make soba noodles. France uses it to make galettes and Russia uses buckwheat flour to make blinis.

Buckwheat flour is high in fiber, protein, and amino acids. It has a high level of magnesium which helps improve blood flow. 

33. Barley

Barley is a popular type of cereal grain in the United States. It is chewy in texture with a nutty flavor and can be purchased as hulled barley, barley grit, flakes, or ground as flour.

This grain offers a high source of fiber and antioxidants, which have been linked to a lower risk of cancer. Due to having a high amount of fiber, it also helps you to feel fuller for longer.

Barley can be used in bread, beverages, stews, and soups. Be mindful of how much you use when cooking as it expands 3-4 times its size when cooked.

34. Baba Ganoush

Similar to hummus, baba ganoush (or baba ghanoush) is an eggplant dip similar to hummus (which is made from chickpeas instead of eggplant). This dip originated from the Eastern Mediterranean and is served with pita bread and vegetables.

The eggplant is either grilled or roasted and then blended into a smooth dip with tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. 

35. Brazil Nut

Brazil nuts are tree nuts native to South America – they are grown in the Amazon rainforest in Brazil, Bolivia and Peru. They have a smooth, buttery texture and a nutty, slightly bitter flavor.

Brazil nuts are packed with nutrients – and have one of the highest amounts of Selenium of any food (68–91 mcg per nut). They are also high in copper, magnesium, phosphorous and zinc.

You can enjoy them as a snack – either raw or roasted!

36. Bay Leaves

Bay leaves are aromatic herbs used in cooking. You can use them whole, fresh or dried, or ground. Dry bay leaves will have a more intense flavor than fresh. They have a floral scent, and are often used in soups, stews, and other slow cooked or braised recipes.

Side Dishes that Start with a B

37. Brown Rice

Rice is a staple food for millions of people around the world. White rice is more common, but brown rice is considered a healthier choice, because it has more nutritional value.

The reason brown rice is slightly healthier than white rice is because the bran or germ hasn’t been removed. These are the parts that contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Brown rice is mostly served as a side with chili, salad, stir fry, and meat. It’s also great as a base for this tofu fried rice recipe!

38. Bean Curd

You have probably heard of bean curd with its most common name, tofu. Bean curd is made from ground and pressed soybeans and originated in China.

It is often sold in blocks with water to keep it moist. Depending upon the recipe and how you want to cook bean curd, you may need to press it first to remove excess moisture.

Bean curd is a great replacement for meat and egg in meals and can be added to stir-fries, curries, quiche, fried, or scrambled.

It doesn’t have much flavor on its own, but is often flavored with soy sauce and adds texture to your dish.

Bean curd is high in protein and calcium, and low in saturated fat.

39. Beer Bread

This bread recipe only uses 6 core ingredients and is made without yeast. It rises through the yeast in the beer reacting with the sugar. 

Beer bread is quick and simple to make and tastes buttery with the flavor of the beer you chose to add. 

A variety of beers from ales to lagers can be used to make beer bread. It is important to allow the beer to come to room temperature before cooking and sifting the flour so it mixes well and doesn’t make the batter too heavy.

40. Bulgur Wheat

Bulgur wheat is a type of whole grain that comes from the cracked whole-grain kernels of wheat. It is partially boiled and dried. Once purchased, it is quick to cook with as it has already been partially cooked.

It has a slightly nutty flavor and chewy texture and is popular in the Middle East and Meditteranean. Bulgur wheat is a core ingredient to making tabbouleh, a traditional Middle Eastern dish.

Bulgar wheat can be used as a replacement for rice, couscous, and quinoa.

41. Bannock

Bannock is a traditional Scottish bread that is heavy and flat. It has a similar texture to a scone with a soft center.

Bannock means ‘baked dough’ and is shaped in a circle and cut into pieces once cooked. 

It is usually cooked using a skillet but traditionally was cooked over an open fire for people camping.

Vegetarian Dishes that Start with a B

42. Barley Soup

Barley is a grain as mentioned earlier in this post. Often for barley soup, ‘pearled barley’ is used which simply means the husks have been removed.

Barley soup itself is extremely versatile and can be made with any leftover vegetables and beans you have at home such as kidney beans, zucchini, mushrooms, and carrots.

Due to using barley, this is an excellent soup if you are looking for something filling and satisfying. The barley provides an extra ‘chewy’ texture in an otherwise soft soup.

43. Bean Chili

This vegetarian chili is packed full of healthy beans and vegetables. Bean chili, as the name suggests, often includes kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans. You can select which vegetables you would like to add to a bean chili, with zucchini, mushrooms, and peppers being a favorite. 

Bean chili is easy and quick to make with a tomato-based sauce and can be served in a bowl topped with sour cream, guacamole, chips, and cheese. Or, can be served with a side salad, pasta, rice, or on top of a baked potato.

44. Broccoli Soup

Broccoli soup uses four main ingredients of broccoli, potatoes, vegetable stock, and cream. For additional flavor, you would also use garlic, onion, herbs, and seasoning.

Broccoli soup is creamy with a strong broccoli flavor and is blended to give a smooth texture. 

If you are vegan, you can make a tasty alternative by using coconut cream instead of cream!

45. Bruschetta

Bruschetta is often made from a baguette or rustic bread. For traditional bruschetta, crunchier bread rather than a standard sandwich loaf are the preferred option.

The bread is toasted and then a mix of fresh tomatoes, balsamic, basil, garlic, and olive oil are added on top.

The fresh tomatoes and balsamic vinegar provide a satisfying sweet yet sour flavor, with a crisp combination of the toasted bread to give an additional crunch with every bite.

Bruschetta is often served as a starter dish and modern versions include melted cheese on top. (Try this recipe: Vegan Bruschetta)

46. Biryani

Vegetable biryani is an Indian dish made with long-grain rice. The rice is often flavored with saffron and cooked with vegetables. The dish is covered and the lid is traditionally secured with dough. It is then left to cook on a low flame.

There are several different versions of biryani depending upon where you are in India such as:

• Hyderabadi biryani which is cooked with goat meat
• Malabar biryani which is eaten in Kerala and has ghee mixed with the rice
• Kolkata biryani which is cooked with potatoes and eggs
• Mughalai biryani is cooked with chicken, almonds, and dry fruits.

47. Borscht

This soup is a deep red-purple color from the key ingredient, beetroot. Borscht, also known as red beet soup, is a Ukrainian dish with key ingredients such as beetroot, cabbage, and tomatoes.

Borscht traditionally is made with meat but can be made with just vegetables. Typical meats used are beef, lamb, duck, goose, and chicken.

It is generally made very thick, almost resembling a stew, and is served with a spoonful of sour cream on the top.

Meat Dishes that Start with a B

48. Beef

Beef is red meat from a cow that has different cuts from steak to rib. Beef can be used in numerous ways such as ground meat for chili, meatballs, and bolognese, to diced meat for stews and casseroles. Beef Stew, Beef Wellington, and Beef Stroganoff are three popular traditional dishes that use beef as the main ingredient.

Out of all the foods that start with B, beef is probably the most commonly used in most parts of the world. Depending on numerous factors, beef can differ in quality and taste. Factors such as the age, breed, diet, and lifestyle of the cow can make a difference.

49. Beef Wellington

Beef Wellington is a traditional English dish often served around the holidays or for special occasions. It is made with steak, coated with pâté and duxelles, then wrapped in puff pastry and baked. It has a flaky, buttery and meaty texture. A vegan Wellington is commonly made with lentils and mushrooms.

50. Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff originated in Russia, characterized by a cream sauce tossed with pasta and sauteed pieces of beef. Stroganoff sauce starts with a butter/flour roux, then you add onions, garlic, mushrooms and spices. The sauce is finished with beef broth and sour cream. Then it’s tossed with the pasta and the cooked beef!

A vegan version of beef stroganoff is often made with mushrooms (See recipe: Vegan Mushroom Pasta).

51. Buffalo Wings

Buffalo wings are made from chicken wings, however differ slightly in that unlike a chicken wing being made up of the entire wing, buffalo wings are cut into smaller pieces.

Buffalo wings are served with a buffalo sauce consisting of hot sauce, vinegar, butter, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. The wings themselves are deep-fried, with no breadcrumbs or batter, and this gives them that ‘crispy’ texture. They are then tossed in hot sauce and served with a blue cheese dressing.

52. Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich, banh mi is made with a concoction of flavors including pate, mayo, ham, pickled vegetables, cilantro, green onion, and chilies.

All the ingredients are added into a crusty bread roll and taste similar to a ham sandwich but with the added freshness from the vegetables and herbs.

The most common type of banh mi is made with Vietnamese Jackfruit ham, but other variations include pork meatballs and shredded chicken.

53. Bigos Stew

This is a popular, traditional Polish dish made with spicy Polish sausage. Bigos stew is a very meaty and hearty stew made with any kind of meat from pork to venison, along with sauerkraut and white cabbage.

It is often served with bread or mashed potato and is a popular family meal.

54. Bolognese

Bolognese is a tasty, family-friendly recipe with a rich, satisfying meat sauce. Bolognese is a classic Italian dish, usually made with beef mince and tomatoes, with variations on the types of vegetables included.

The key ingredients which lead to its rich flavor are Worcestershire sauce, beef, tomatoes, and red wine. It can also be made vegan by replacing the beef with lentils.

Bolognese is most often served with spaghetti pasta to create pasta bolognese but can also be served with rice or potatoes.

55. Black Cod

Black cod is full of omega-3 fatty acids but unlike standard cod, it has a buttery flavor. This fish is native to the waters around Canada and Alaska. It has gray skin and white flesh.

Also known as sablefish and butterfish, black cod is highly versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways including grilled, pan-roasted, smoked, or even eaten raw.

56. Bourbon Chicken

Bourbon chicken has a sweet and sticky flavor due to the key ingredients used to make it. Often made with either chicken thighs, the chicken is first coated in cornstarch and seasoning before being fried.

A sauce is then made which includes apple juice, bourbon, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar, to which the cooked chicken is added. The sauce is reduced leaving a thick, sticky sauce with a strong bourbon flavor with a hint of apple.

57. Brisket

Brisket is meat that comes from the breast of a cow. It is a cheap cut of meat due to not being very tender.

However, it can be full of flavor and softened in texture through braising, smoothing, or slowly roasting the meat. To gain the most out of this meat cut, it is recommended to cook brisket at a low temperature for a long period.

Brisket is a popular meat choice for BBQs (and tastes great with barbecue sauce). It is also commonly turned into corned beef, or made into a pot roast. In Vietnam, brisket is used in a noodle dish called soup pho.

58. Burrito

Burritos are tortillas that completely wrap around a filling. Most often the filling is a layer of rice, topped with beef and/or beans. There are lots of variations of what can be included inside a burrito such as:

• Beef chili
• Spicy chicken and beans
• Vegetarian chili
• Beans and corn
• Jackfruit

A recommendation to give your burrito an extra kick in flavor is to mix lime juice with your rice and top your filling with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream before wrapping it inside of your burrito.

Desserts that Start with a B

59. Baba Au Rhum

Baba au rhum, also known as rum babas, is a cake that is covered in an alcoholic syrup topped with whipped cream. The alcohol used is usually rum, as suggested by the name.

There are three core components to making a baba au rhum cake:

1. Rum syrup
2. Cake batter
3. Glaze

The syrup for this French dessert is the key component to gaining the right texture and taste for this cake with key ingredients such as ginger, citrus fruit, and cinnamon as well as rum.

60. Boston Cream Pie

Unlike the name suggests, Boston cream pie is not a pie but a layered cake. As you’ve probably guessed, this pie originated in Boston and was called a pie rather than a cake as it was often baked on a pie plate.

Boston cream pie is made up of two layers of cake with a layer of pastry cream in between, topped with chocolate ganache. 

61. Banana Cake

Banana cake also known as banana bread is a very tasty, moist cake made with fresh bananas. It is best to cook with ripe bananas to gain a sweet, strong banana taste throughout the cake.

Being a loaf cake, this is very easy to make with 2 key steps of mixing the wet ingredients, then adding the dry ingredients until combined. 

This cake can be sliced and eaten as is, with butter, or even with a layer of icing on top.

62. Baked Alaska

This famous dessert originated in New York City is an ice-cream cake covered in meringue, almost resembling an igloo.

Baked Alaska dessert has a layer of sponge cake as a base, with a semi-circle of ice cream over the top, and finally covered with piped meringue.

This dessert needs to be kept cold to retain its shape and prevent the ice cream from melting before being served.

63. Biscotti

Biscotti is a traditional Italian biscuit typically made with hazelnuts. The biscuits are baked twice to give them a hard crunch and are often served with a hot beverage such as coffee or tea. 

Biscotti can use a range of nuts and dried fruits to create a variety of flavors including pistachio, almond, and apricots.

64. Baklava

Baklava is a popular dessert in Greece and Turkey. It is made with layers of filo pastry which have been soaked in honey, and nut mixture.

Turkish baklava uses a mixture of crushed pistachios with a syrup made with sugar, water, and lemon juice. Whereas Greek baklava uses walnuts and lots of cinnamon for their nut filling.

By layering up the filo pastry in between the nut mixture, you gain a wonderful crunchy texture with aromatic spices and the sweetness from the honey syrup.

65. Beignet

Beignets, meaning ‘fritter’ are a type of French doughnut which are lighter than a standard doughnut. They are made from deep-fried choux pastry which is sometimes filled with fruit and finally dusted with powdered sugar.

66. Banana Cream Pie

Banana cream pie is an old fashioned pie that’s a classic American dessert. It’s got to be one of the most popular foods that start with B out there! It’s characterized by a flaky butter crust, topped with vanilla custard and fresh banana slices, and then topped with fresh whipped cream!

Beverages that Start with a B

67. Bubble Tea

Bubble tea is a Taiwanese drink that is made by blending tea with milk, fruit juice, and then adding tapioca pearls.

The bubbles are referring to the tapioca pearls which shoot up your straw as you drink bubble tea, but also from the bubbles created when the drink is shaken to blend all of the ingredients.

68. Banana Smoothie

Banana smoothies are a sweet and filling drink. The riper the banana used, the sweeter your smoothie will be. Alternatively, use frozen sliced bananas for a thicker texture.

Smoothies are often made with either yogurt or milk to help thicken the smoothie and provide a creamier taste. Additional ingredients are often included to add extra nutritional value such as half an avocado, strawberries, blueberries, or even spinach leaves.

69. Benedictine

Benedictine is a type of sweet liqueur which is made with 27 herbs, spices, and peels. It is often added to cocktails to provide a sweet, yet spiced flavor. Benedictine can also be drunk on its own, however, with having 40% alcohol, it is wise to drink in moderation.

70. Bloody Mary

This popular cocktail is made using vodka as the alcohol base, with lemon juice, tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco. It has quite a unique flavor as cocktails go, with a savory, yet salty taste from the hot sauce and tomatoes.

Final Thoughts

Had you heard of Banh mi, bacuri, and bannock before reading this post? With this list of 70 foods that start with b, you are bound to find something new and tasty for the whole family to try.

Related helpful articles

Don’t forget to take a look at the other food lists in this series from A-Z to gain more healthy foods and recipes to try at home!

• Foods That Start With A
• Foods That Start With D
• Foods That Start With J
• Fruits That Start With O
• Foods That Start with I
• Foods That Start with U
• Foods That Start With T
• Foods That Start With F
• Foods That Start With N
• Vegetables That Start With M
• Foods That Start With W
• Foods That Start With Y
• Fruits That Start With Z

If you found this guide helpful, or have tried any of the recipes on my blog, then feel free to reach out in the comments below! I respond to every question and comment I get! Then, FOLLOW ME on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, INSTAGRAM, and PINTEREST to see more delicious, healthy, family-friendly food!