54+ Foods That Start With O (Foods & Recipes That Begin With O!) (2024)

A delicious group of foods that start with O to round out all your list challenge answers and cooking ideas! Here you can find everything from appetizers to desserts as well as condiments and entrees that begin with the letter O. So take a look at this list for inspiration if you are cooking your way through the alphabet!

54 Foods That Start With O

If you're trying your hand at the 'cook through the alphabet' challenge, I've listed the best recipes that start with the letter 'O'! These recipes include a few familiar dishes as well as some culturally diverse options to keep things interesting.

Whipping up recipes from A-Z is also a fun way to help kiddos learn the alphabet while experiencing new foods! No matter the reason, these foods that start with O are guaranteed to be a hit!

Don't forget totake a look at all of our lists forfoods that start with A-Z!

Fruits That Start With O

1. Olives

Olives are a fruit that come from a small species of bush or tree in the Oleaceae family. They are grown and harvested in all Mediterranean countries, New Zealand, South Africa, and North and South America.

Olives are extremely versatile. They can be made into oil, eaten whole, or cooked into various recipes. Only 10% of olives make it to the table and the other 90% is made into oil.

2. Oranges

Oranges are a highly nutritious citrus fruit that come from the Rutaceae family. What most people don't realize is that an orange is actually a hybrid cross between a pomelo and mandarin.

Oranges count for about 70% of citrus fruit harvested worldwide! Oranges are also processed for their juice or their fragrant, tangy peel!

3. Oregon Grapes

Oregon grapes, also known as holly-leaved barberries, are not a traditional grape. They are actually the berry of an evergreen shrub. Though edible, these berries are quite tart and are often combined with other sweeter berries in jams or jellies to tame the tartness.

Vegetables That Start With O

4. Oca

Oca, or Oxalis tuberosa, are a starchy winter vegetable. They are somewhat similar to potatoes with a slightly tangy, sweet, and nutty flavor. They are crisp when eaten raw but become starchy and tender when baked or boiled.

There are many alternate names for oca that vary by location. New Zealand calls them yams, while in Quechua they are referred to as uqa, and oca is the term commonly used in Spanish. They make a wonderful addition to soups and stews!

5. Okra

Okra is a green vegetable with a mild taste and unique texture with a sticky juice inside (that is oftentimes used to thicken soups and sauces). The two most common ways to enjoy okra are battered and fried or stewed in a gumbo. However, if prepared properly, okra is also delicious roasted or sauteed!

The seeds inside of okra are edible, so there is no need to deseed them. They are highly nutritious and contain a multitude of vitamins and minerals.

6. Onions

Onions are one of the most commonly used vegetables in the world. They come from the Allium family of plants and are closely related to leeks, chives, and garlic!

Onions come in a variety of shapes, sizes, flavors, and colors, some being more pungent than others. They range from juicy and mild to somewhat spicy with a sharp bite. Onions contain a gas called syn-Propanethial-S-oxide that causes the signature teary eyes that result from cutting them. Despite the burning sensation they may cause your eyeballs, they are highly nutritious and are thought to even have some cancer inhibiting

Condiments And Spices That Start With O

7. Olive Oil

Olive oil is a liquid fat that can be used to saute or fry foods as well as to make sauces and salad dressings. It is made by pressing whole olives and extracting the oil that comes out.

Olive oil is one of the most common ingredients in cooking (and occasionally baking), though it has many unconventional uses as well. It can also be found in soap, cosmetics, supplements, and fuel for things like oil lamps.

8. Oregano

Oregano is an herb that comes from the mint family but does not share mint's signature cool flavor. It has an earthy, warm, and ever-so-slightly bitter flavor. This widely used herb is extremely common in Italian dishes but is also utilized internationally in different cuisines such as: Greek, French, Turkish, Spanish, and Mexican.

9. Oyster Sauce

Oyster sauce is commonly used in Asian cuisine but can be used to add a depth of flavor and dark caramel color to any dish! It has a strong taste that doesn't necessarily scream 'oysters!' but a little does go a long way. It's a little sweet, salty, and full of savory umami flavor.

Drinks That Start With O

10. Oat Milk

Oat milk is a popular dairy alternative that has been sweeping the nation. Made by using water to extract the plant material from whole oat grains, oat milk is one of the creamier non-dairy milk options.

It has a mild taste that makes it perfect for cooking and drinking alike. You can even buy it in various flavors and levels of sweetness such as vanilla, honey, or chocolate!

Appetizers And Side Dishes That Start With O

11. O'Brien Potatoes

O'Brien potatoes are a simple potato dish that is common in the Southern United states (though their origin is disputed). Yukon gold potatoes are diced and then mixed with both red and green bell peppers and onion before being pan-fried until crispy!

These potatoes are equally as delicious at breakfast time as they are at dinner. Serve them with eggs or a meaty main course and your guests will savor every bite!

12. Oatcakes

Oatcakes are technically a flatbread though they are very similar to a cracker or biscuit. The key ingredient is oatmeal. Oatcakes are generally cooked on a griddle, though baking them in the oven is also an option.

Oatcakes are simple to make and are delicious served as a snack with some quality cheese!

13. Obbatu

Obbatu has many names including puran puri, puran poli, holige, and bobbatlu. This sweet Indian flatbread stems from Southern India but has spread in popularity over time.

14. Obusuma

Obsuma is a maize-based sided dish that is commonly served in Kenya alongside leafy greens or hearty stews amongst other things. It has many alternative names including: mieliepap,phutu,sadza,kwon,isitshwala, and many more.

Obusuma is generally cooked in boiling water, or hot milk, until it reaches a doughy, stiff consistency.

15. Ogi

Ogi, also referred to as pap or akamu, is an African corn porridge that is a staple dish in Nigeria. It is often compared to British custard, the difference being that the cornstarch used to make ogi comes from fermented kernels whereas British custard comes from unfermented kernels.

16. Ohitashi

Ohitashi is an easy, classic side dish from Japan that consists of a soy sauce based marinade and blanched greens. The marinade adds a subtle umami flavor to the tender greens. They are commonly served with a sprinkling of dried bonito flakes on top for texture.

17. Onigiri

Onigiri are Japanese rice 'balls' that are commonly formed into a rounded triangles or cylindrical shapes. They are sometimes called omusubi or nigirimeshi. These rice balls are as simple as adding pressure to steamed rice to form them into the desired shape.

18. Onion Dip

Onion dip, or French onion dip, is a popular appetizer in the United States made from a base of sour cream and dried minced onion. It is generally served with tortilla or potato chips, but is also delicious on vegetables or spread on bread or crackers.

19. Onion Rings

Onion rings are an American classic that consist of onions that have been sliced into rounds then battered and fried. They are commonly served alongside burgers or sandwiches, or are enjoyed as an appetizer on their own with a variety of dipping sauces. Of all the foods that start with O, these are one of the most popular.

20. Orgu peyniri

Orgu peyniri is a Turkish braided white cheese that is very elastic. It can be enjoyed plain or added to a variety of dishes or charcuterie boards. It is traditionally ripened in brine then boiled in salt water, which attributes to most of its flavor.

21. Orzo

Orzo is a pasta that looks very similar to rice. It makes a great addition to any meal and is often served with vegetables or protein mixed in. Traditionally, orzo is made from whole grains but it can be made with flour as well.

The name 'orzo' means barley in Italian. It is also commonly used in soups, salads, or casseroles.

22. Osumashi

You may have tried osumashi at your local hibachi grill. It is a clear broth-based soup made from simmering vegetables and meat for hours until the broth takes on a rich, deep flavor. After simmering, the vegetables and meat are removed. Typically, thinly sliced mushrooms and green onions are used as garnishes.

23. Oysters Rockefeller

Oysters Rockefeller are an elegant seafood starter that is common in the United states. It begins as oysters on the half shell that are then topped with a blended sauce of butter, parsley, and herbs that is mixed with breadcrumbs then baked or broiled.

Occasionally, spinach or diced bacon is added though it is not standard by any means. Oysters Rockefeller originated in New Orleans at a restaurant called Antoine's in 1889. They are also served as a brunch item at some restaurants in the South.

Vegetarian Dishes That Start With O

24. Oat Bran

Oat bran is a great source of dietary fiber that comes from the outer casing of the oat groat (which is what goes on to make oatmeal). It is low in saturated fat while being high in protein, making it a great breakfast choice for when you need to keep your energy going until lunchtime.

Oat bran has also been linked to many health benefits such as lower cholesterol and blood sugar. You can commonly find it as an ingredient in cereal for this reason!

25. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a breakfast staple all over the world. It is easily customizable and lends itself to a wide array of flavors! To get oatmeal, the oats must first be de-husked, steamed, and flattened. Alternatively, they may be a course flour of hulled oat grains that were milled or steel-cut.

Adding things to oatmeal such as cream, butter, sugar, or fruit are common though there are limitless combinations of toppings and mix-ins to try.

26. Oats

Oatmeal, oat bran, and oat milk only exist because oats did first. It is one of the most versatile and commonly used foods that start with O.

The scientific name for these oats is actually Avena sativa from the Poaceae family of plants. Oats are technically the edible seeds from oat grass and tend to be easy to cook and inexpensive.

27. Ochazuke

Ochazuke, or chazuke, is a Japanese dish made by pouring hot water, dashi, or green tea over steamed rice. It is an easy quick snack and a great way to use up leftover rice in the fridge.

This one-bowl dish can feature a variety of savory ingredients such as salmon flakes, nori (seaweed), sashimi, or Japanese pickles.

28. Olan

Olan is a creamy vegan curry made with white pumpkin, cowpeas, and coconut milk.

29. Oondees

Oondees, also known as undees, are an Indian breakfast delicacy. It is made by boiling rice until it is hard then pounding it into a round, flat shape. Often times, sugar or coconut is included to add a touch of sweetness. After being formed, the oondees are steamed.

30. Oshiruko

Oshiruko, sometimes called zenzai, is a sweet red bean soup made with azuki beans and mochi. It is warm and earthy, while the chewy consistency of the mochi adds a lovely texture. This soup is more of a dessert than it is a soup.

Commonly the beans are strained so that the liquid is velvety smooth, but some prefer to use a red bean paste with bits of bean still present to add texture.

Proteins and Meat Dishes That Start With O

31. Ocean Perch

The ocean perch is not actually a perch but a rockfish from the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. In New England and Eastern Canada they are called 'redfish', not to be mistaken with redfish from the Gulf of Mexico.

Ocean perch is lean with moist and flaky meat that has a mildly sweet taste. This white fish is easy to prepare and it is delicious when grilled or baked.

32. Octopus

Octopus is an international delicacy that is prepared in a number of different ways depending on geographic location and species. It may be served raw in thin strips or cooked. The arms, or tentacles, are delicious grilled or sliced and rolled up in sushi.

The heads are edible, however, they contain high concentrations of cadmium and pose a risk of cadmium poisoning.

33. Oeufs En Meurette

Oeufs en meurette is a dish that consists of poached eggs in a rich red wine meurette or bourguignon sauce that stems from Burgundy, France. It generally includes bacon and pearl onions, and occasionally carrots.

It is often compared to beef bourguignon or coq au van but without the meat.

34. Offal

Offal has coined the name 'various meats' because it consists of just that-various edible organs from a butchered animal with no specific required parts (though muscle is usually excluded). For example, beef offal will usually include tripe, stomach, brains, kidneys, or tongue. Offal may be braised, boiled, fried, or used as an ingredient in other recipes.

35. Ogbono Soup

Ogbono seeds are ground African mango seeds that are then turned into delicious ogbono soup! This rich, nutritious dish hails specifically from Nigeria and often includes fish and/or meat which varies by location. Things like tripe, cow feet, or crayfish may be used. Typically some green, leafy vegetables are included as well.

36. Okowa

Okowa is a Japanese sticky rice that that is mixed with meat and veggies. Commonly it is made with chicken, though there are no specific regulations as it is an easy, versatile dish. Many people will make it with whatever ingredients they have on hand. A splash of dashi broth adds plenty of umami flavor.

37. Okroshka

Okroshka is a cold Russian summer soup made with primarily raw vegetables, boiled potatoes, eggs, and meat. The meat can be beef, veal, sausage, or ham. The soup also includes kvass which is a beverage with a low alcohol content that is made from fermented rye or black bread.

38. Omelets

Omelets are a simple yet versatile high-protein breakfast dish made by folding eggs beaten eggs. They can be filled with anything from cheese to meat to vegetables or a combination of all 3.

The hardest part of making the perfect omelet is folding it, but with a little practice, it becomes quite easy to do. Lower calorie and lower cholesterol versions may be made solely with egg whites.

Omelets are easily customizable, though there are some common variations such as mushroom Swiss or ham and cheese.

39. Omurice

Omurice is a Japanese rice omelet that is often times enjoyed at home as a quick and easy breakfast. It is generally topped with a drizzle of ketchup (making it a favorite for children). The fried rice is blanketed in a thin layer of scrambled eggs and every bite is bursting with flavor.

40. Ono

The ono fish or 'wahoo' is a close relative to king mackerel. Ono is a highly sought-after game fish due to the high quality of its meat. It is flaky and delicate with a mild flavor.

This fish is a very fast swimmer and can grow up to 100 pounds! However, the ono you find for purchase are more likely to be in the 8-30 pound range.

41. Opakapaka

Opakapaka, or the Hawaiian pink snapper, has a lean light-pink flesh that is delicate and sweet in flavor. Oftentimes, it is enjoyed raw as sashimi though it is delicious baked, poached, or sauteed as well.

42. Orange Roughy

Orange roughy, also called deep sea perch, red roughy, or slimehead, is a large deep-sea fish with delicate meat and a slightly sweet flavor. It is comparable to tilapia or pollock.

The meat of the orange roughy is tolerant to many cooking methods but does not hold up well to frying or grilling.

43. Ossobuco

Ossobuco is a delicious dish out of Lombardy, Italy that consists of cross-cut veal shanks that are braised in broth and white wine with a mixture of vegetables. Traditionally it is served with polenta or risotto, though this varies by region.

44. Ou tenga maas

Ou tenga maas is an incredible Indian fish curry that usually includes yam or elephant apple. Catla fish is a common choice, and it is cooked in a rich tomato broth with kokum, a small cherry-like fruit.

45. Oxheart

Oxheart, or ox heart, is a muscle that shares many qualities with steak, though it has much more protein. It has a very beefy flavor and is packed full of vitamins. Oxheart is delicious stuffed with bacon, kale, and vegetables, or it may be chopped and used in soups or stews.

46. Oxtails

Oxtail is exactly what it sounds like, the tail from cattle, that has been skinned and cut down into smaller portions. The meat is gelatin-rich which makes it more suitable for slow-cooking or braising.

Oxtail is utilized all over the world but one of the most common dishes is Jamaican oxtail. The meat is slowly simmered with fresh herbs, tender vegetables, and butter beans then enjoyed on its own or over rice.

47. Oyakodon

Oyakodon is called 'Japanese soul food' but the literal translation is "parent-and-child rice bowl'. This is because it consists of chicken (the parent) and egg (the child). The chicken, egg, and scallion or onion is simmered in stock and soy sauce then served over a heaping pile of white rice.

48. Oysters

Oysters is the common name for various species of mollusks that can be enjoyed cooked or raw. They have a number of health benefits, most notably a high zinc content that will help you feel happy and energized. They are also said to be an aphrodisiac that helps boost libido.

Oysters taste better in the winter months because during the summer months they are spawning which weakens and 'waters down' their flavor. This is why you may have heard to only eat oysters during months that end with the letter 'R'.

Desserts That Start With O

49. Obleas

Obleas are a wafer dessert that consists of two thin communion wafers that are typically sandwiched around a dulce de leche filling. Though dulce de leche is the most common choice, sometimes jam, fruit, whipped cream, or a combination of fillings are used instead. This dessert is very popular in Spain and Latin American countries.

50. Opera Cake

Opera cake is an elegant French cake made from sponge cake. The cake is soaked in coffee syrup then layered with ganache, French buttercream, and coated in a chocolate glaze. This elaborate cake takes time and preparation, so it is usually reserved for special occasions.

51. Ornejones

Ornejones means 'big ears' which alludes to their shape. They are made by filling a crunchy puff pastry with cream. The cream can take on a variety of flavors from vanilla to lemon, orange, or chocolate!

52. Oreos

Oreo is the brand name for a sandwich cookie that consists of 2 wafers with a cream filling. The original flavor is chocolate and sweet cream. However, there are many variations available.

Oreo cookies are broken up and used in cakes, puddings, ice cream, and many other desserts.

53. Osmanthus Cake

Osmanthus cake is a Chinese pastry made with fragrant osmanthus, a type of flowering plant common to Asia. It also includes glutinous rice flour, honey, and rock sugar.

The texture of the cake is is slightly chewy, almost waxy, but also soft and tender.

Is there anything that I am missing from this list ranging from our familiar American foods to specialty dishes and international foods that start with O? Leave a comment and let me know below!

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