Today’s list is extra special to me, as my all-time favorite drink, tea, starts with the letter T. But beyond tea, get ready to explore an exciting and diverse collection of foods that start with the letter T! From flavorful tacos and exotic tagine to sweet Turkish delights and indulgent tiramisu, this list features 100 mouthwatering options that will ignite your taste buds.
Whether you’re looking for fresh fruits like tangerines or nutritious vegetables like tomatoes, this guide has something for everyone. You’ll also find savory dishes such as teriyaki chicken, tom yum soup, and tofu stir-fry that will inspire your next meal. For those with a sweet tooth, the list includes treats like treacle tart, Trinidadian coconut drops, and Tahitian vanilla bean ice cream.
Explore the rich diversity of foods starting with T from across the world—each one offering unique flavors and a chance to broaden your culinary horizons. Let these dishes and ingredients bring a taste of adventure to your kitchen!
1. Tabasco sauce
2. Tabbouleh
Tabbouleh is a fresh, flavorful salad made from parsley, bulgur wheat, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon juice. It originates from the Middle East, particularly Lebanon and Syria, and is often served as a side dish or appetizer. The ingredients are chopped finely and mixed together, creating a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for hot weather.
People enjoy tabbouleh because it’s not only delicious but also very healthy. It’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from the fresh herbs and vegetables. The zesty lemon juice gives it a tangy kick, making it a popular choice for anyone looking for a flavorful and nutritious meal.
3. Tabouleh
4. Taco salad
5. Tacos
6. Taffy
7. Taffy apple
8. Tagine
Tagine is a traditional North African dish, especially popular in Morocco. It’s made by slow-cooking meat, vegetables, and spices in a special clay pot also called a tagine. The dish is known for its rich, savory flavors, with common ingredients including lamb, chicken, carrots, potatoes, and a mix of aromatic spices like cumin, cinnamon, and saffron. Often, dried fruits like apricots or raisins are added for a sweet twist.
People love tagine because of its tender, flavorful meat and the way the spices blend together, creating a warm, comforting meal. The slow-cooking method makes everything incredibly juicy and full of flavor, making tagine a beloved dish for family gatherings or special occasions.
9. Tagliatelle
Tagliatelle is a type of pasta that comes from Italy, known for its long, flat, and slightly wide shape. It’s similar to fettuccine but a bit thinner. Tagliatelle is typically made from eggs and flour, giving it a rich, smooth texture. It’s often served with a variety of sauces, such as Bolognese (meat sauce) or Alfredo, and can also be used in soups or casseroles.
People love tagliatelle for its ability to soak up sauces perfectly, making each bite flavorful. It’s a versatile pasta that’s easy to prepare and pairs well with a wide range of ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying it with a creamy sauce or a simple tomato dish, tagliatelle is always a satisfying choice.
10. Tahini
11. Tahini sauce
12. Tamago (Japanese omelette)
13. Tamale
A tamale is a traditional Mexican dish made from masa (a dough made from corn) that is filled with various ingredients like meats, cheese, vegetables, or chilies. The filling is wrapped in a corn husk or banana leaf and then steamed or boiled. Tamales are often served during holidays, celebrations, or family gatherings, and they are enjoyed across many Latin American countries with regional variations.
People love tamales for their delicious, savory fillings and the soft, flavorful masa. The combination of different fillings and spices wrapped in a corn husk makes tamales a comfort food for many. They’re often enjoyed with salsa or hot sauce, and they bring a sense of tradition and togetherness when shared with friends and family.
14. Tamarillo
A tamarillo, also known as a tree tomato, is a small, egg-shaped fruit with a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. It has smooth, shiny skin that can be red, yellow, or orange, with a soft, juicy flesh inside. Tamarillos are often eaten fresh, but they can also be used in sauces, salads, or jams. They grow on trees in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in places like South America, New Zealand, and parts of Africa.
People love tamarillos for their unique, bold flavor that combines sweetness and tartness. They’re also packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a healthy addition to any diet. Whether you enjoy them in a fresh salad or cooked into a savory sauce, tamarillos bring a refreshing twist to many dishes.
15. Tamarind
16. Tandoori chicken
17. Tangerine
18. Tangyuan
Tangyuan is a traditional Chinese dessert made of glutinous rice dough filled with sweet or savory fillings, such as sesame paste, red bean paste, or ground peanuts. The dough is shaped into small balls, which are then boiled and served in a warm, sweet broth. Tangyuan is often eaten during special occasions like the Lantern Festival or Chinese New Year, symbolizing unity and togetherness due to their round shape.
People love tangyuan for its chewy texture and the burst of sweet or savory filling inside. The warm broth and soft dough make it a comforting treat, perfect for cold weather or celebrations. Whether enjoyed with family or at a festive gathering, tangyuan brings a sense of joy and tradition.
19. Tapas
Tapas are small Spanish dishes or appetizers that are typically served with drinks, making them perfect for sharing. They can be hot or cold and include a variety of ingredients such as seafood, meats, vegetables, and cheeses. Popular tapas include patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy tomato sauce), croquettes, jamón (cured ham), and olives. Tapas are often enjoyed in social settings, where people order several different dishes to share.
People love tapas because they offer a variety of flavors and textures in one meal, allowing everyone to try a little bit of everything. The sharing style makes tapas a fun and interactive way to dine, perfect for gatherings or casual dinners. Whether enjoyed with friends over drinks or as part of a festive meal, tapas bring a taste of Spanish culture to the table.
20. Tapenade
21. Tapioca
22. Tapioca pudding
23. Taralli
Taralli are crunchy, Italian snacks that resemble small rings or pretzels. They are made from a simple dough of flour, olive oil, wine, and seasonings like fennel or black pepper. Taralli are often baked until golden and crispy, making them a perfect snack for pairing with cheese, wine, or olives. They come in a variety of flavors, with some versions being sweet, while others are savory.
People love taralli for their delightful crunch and light, flavorful taste. They’re commonly enjoyed in southern Italy but are loved across the country and around the world. Whether served as an appetizer or enjoyed with a drink, taralli are a beloved part of Italian snacking culture.
24. Taro
Taro is a starchy root vegetable that has a brown, rough outer skin and white or purple flesh inside. It is commonly used in various cuisines, especially in Asian and Pacific Islander cooking. Taro can be boiled, mashed, roasted, or even fried, and it is often used in dishes like soups, stews, or desserts. In some countries, it’s made into a creamy paste or used to make taro-flavored bubble tea.
People enjoy taro for its mildly sweet flavor and creamy texture when cooked. It’s also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Whether eaten as a side dish, in a savory meal, or as a dessert, taro offers a unique and satisfying way to incorporate root vegetables into your diet.
25. Tarragon
26. Tart
27. Tartar sauce
28. Tartaric acid
29. Tarte Tatin
30. Tasso ham
31. Tater tot casserole
Tater tot casserole is a comforting and hearty dish made with a base of crispy tater tots, ground meat (often beef or turkey), and a creamy sauce, usually with cheese or sour cream. The ingredients are layered in a baking dish and then baked until the tater tots are golden brown and crispy. It’s a popular family meal in the United States and is often served as a main dish at dinner or potlucks.
People love tater tot casserole for its combination of crunchy, savory flavors and its convenience. It’s a great way to turn simple ingredients into a filling, crowd-pleasing meal. With its easy preparation and satisfying taste, tater tot casserole is perfect for busy nights when you want something quick and delicious.
32. Tater tots
33. Tatsoi
34. Tea
35. Tea biscuits
36. Teacake
37. Tempeh
Tempeh is a plant-based protein made from fermented soybeans, originally from Indonesia. It has a firm texture and a nutty, earthy flavor. Tempeh is often sliced, marinated, and cooked in various ways—grilled, stir-fried, or baked. It’s a popular meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan diets because it’s rich in protein, fiber, and probiotics.
People enjoy tempeh because it’s both healthy and filling. It absorbs flavors well, making it a tasty addition to dishes like stir-fries, sandwiches, salads, and rice bowls. Whether you’re vegetarian or just looking for a nutritious meat alternative, tempeh is a wholesome choice with a satisfying bite.
38. Tempura
39. Tempura udon
40. Tenderloin
41. Tequila
42. Teriyaki
43. Teriyaki sauce
44. Texas toast
45. Tex-Mex
46. Thai basil
47. Thai curry
48. Thai iced tea
49. Thepla (Indian flatbread)
50. Thousand Island dressing
51. Three bean salad
52. Thumbprint cookies
53. Thyme
54. Tigernuts
55. Tikka masala
56. Tilapia
57. Timbale
58. Timtam cookies
59. Tiramisu
60. Tiramisu cake
61. Toad in the hole
62. Toast
63. Tobiko (flying fish roe)
64. Toffee
65. Toffee apples
66. Tofu
67. Tofurkey
68. Togarashi
69. Tom yum soup
70. Tomato
71. Tomato bisque
72. Tomato paste
73. Tomato sauce
74. Tonkatsu
75. Torta (cake or sandwich, depending on the region)
76. Tortellini
77. Tortilla
78. Tortilla chips
79. Tostada
80. Tostones
81. Tramezzini
82. Tres leches cake
83. Tricolor pasta
84. Trifle
85. Tri-tip steak
86. Trout
87. Truffle oil
88. Truffles
89. Tuna
90. Tuna melt
91. Tuna tartare
92. Turducken
93. Turkey
94. Turkey bacon
95. Turkish delight
96. Turmeric
97. Turnip
98. Turnover
99. Tuscan soup
100. Tzatziki
Jean Smith is a fitness enthusiast and blogger who focuses on fitness and a healthy lifestyle. She is passionate about assisting people in living healthier lifestyles and is constantly on the lookout for new and creative methods to stay fit and healthy. Her articles are excellent resources for anyone interested in improving their health and fitness.