22 Foods That Start With N

There are not that many foods that start with N!

But if you’re wondering what some of them are, I’ve got a quick rundown below.

You’ll find everything from fruits and desserts to classic nachos. And some that you probably haven’t heard of before!

But… before you dive in, how many foods can you name that begin with the letter N. Test yourself and see how many you get.

I was only able to get a few before doing the research. But after you read this article, you’ll know at least 22 🙂

1. Naan Bread

Naan bread, also known as Nan, is a flat bread that is common in Western Asia.

It’s soft and chewy and usually made with yogurt, which is what gives the bread that pillowy texture.

Some ingredients that go well with Naan bread are garlic, cheese, and curry.

2. Nachos

This Mexican dish is a popular snack all over the world.

The most common nacho recipes call for a bed of crunchy tortilla chips with ground beef, cheese, salsa, olives, sour cream, and guacamole.

But feel free to have fun with it! Heck, you can even make dessert nachos with caramel and apple slices.

3. Nantua

A classical French sauce named after the city of Nantua.

It’s Bechamel-based and is made with cream and crayfish butter. It can be used in many dishes, but it pairs best with seafood!

4. Nashi Pear

I’m sure you’re familiar with pears but have you ever heard of the Nashi pear?

This fruit is common in East Asia and ‘Nashi’ is actually the Japanese word for pear! It has a distinct round shape, which is why it’s often mistaken for an apple.

5. Nasi Goreng

Nasi Goreng is perhaps the most popular Indonesian dish in the world.

This simple rice dish is usually made with chicken, shallots, carrots, green beans, tomato paste, and chicken or shrimp on a bed of rice.

6. Natilla

Natilla, also known as Natillas de Leche, is a creamy custard that originated in Spain.

It’s rich and milky and made with vanilla. Many Spaniards consider this a comfort food that they remember from their childhood!

7. Natto

Another N food from Japan is Natto.

Like many Japanese dishes and ingredients, Natto is made with fermented soybeans and is a common breakfast ingredient.

Some even say this sticky paste tastes similar to bleu cheese but with a sweeter and slightly bitter flavor.

8. Navel Oranges

Did you know that navel oranges were named after the human navel? This is because this popular fruit’s skin has indentations that resemble a belly button!

Sweet and juicy and packed with Vitamin C, navel oranges are one of the most famous varieties of oranges in the world.

9. Navette

Literally meaning ‘shuttle’ in French, this cylindrical cookie is made with just five ingredients; flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and orange blossom flavors.

It’s most commonly eaten in France during Candlemas, a Christian holiday celebrated annually on February 2nd.

10. Navy Beans

The navy bean goes by many other names, including haricot, pearl, Boston, and white peas.

They’re small white beans (so they’re often confused with regular white beans), and they have an oval shape. They are usually made as soups.

11. Nectar

This sugar-packed liquid found in flowers is what keeps the bees busy!

Nectar is the main sweetening agent of honey and it’s also used as a sweetener for fruit juices and desserts.

12. Nectarine

Speaking of nectar, the nectarine fruit is actually named after the sweet liquid!

Nectarines are part of the peach family. These delicious fruits have low caloric content, are rich in fiber, and are an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and even potassium.

And other than eating them like peaches, I have a bunch of fun nectarine recipes you just have to try!

13. Neep

Another name for turnip, neeps are a close cousin of cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and broccoli.

They are sweet and earthy when cooked and have a starchy flesh. Have them steamed, roasted, mashed, or pickled.

14. Negus

This unique Ethiopian drink is made of wine, hot water, sugar, and a citrus fruit like orange or lemon.

Negus, which is served hot, is named after its creator, Francis Negus, a colonel in the English army. 

15. Nesselrode

If you’re looking for a new dessert, you might want to give Nesselrode pudding a try!

This frozen sweet treat is similar to ice cream and is made with Cognac, egg yolks, raisins, sugar, vanilla, cream, and the star of the show, chestnuts!

16. Noodles

Noodles are enjoyed by foodies all around the world!

They’re a staple in almost all Asian cuisines and can be made with a variety of different ingredients.

Egg noodles, rice noodles, and ramen noodles are some of the most popular. Versatile and filling, they are excellent as a stir-fry or with a broth.

17. Nori

That black sheet that wraps sushi? It’s called nori!

Made of dried seaweed, nori is essential in Japanese cuisine. It’s used in so many dishes in Japan that approximately 8 billion sheets are made each year! 

18. Norman Tart

Another delectable dessert that starts with N is Norman tart… also known as French apple tart!

Similar to apple pie, this sweet treat from Normandy is made with thin slices of French apples, a thin crust, and topped off with creamy custard.

19. Nougat

This famous confection is simple yet extremely delicious! Nougat’s main ingredients are sugar, nuts, and whipped egg whites.

They are known for their chewy texture and a basic nougat recipe can easily be made at home. Eat it on its own or add to different desserts.

20. Nuggets

Nuggets are a favorite all across the country.

These bite-sized battered chicken pieces are usually deep fried or baked. T

hey were invented in the 1950’s and today they are a staple in many fast food restaurants. These savory bites are best enjoyed with a dip.

21. Nutella

Few spreads are as addictive as this perfect blend of cocoa and hazelnut.

Nutella was first made in Italy, and today it’s become a breakfast favorite in many homes across the world.

This sweet spread is usually eaten with bread, added to cakes and ice creams, and is even a part of the Starbucks Secret Menu!

22. Nutmeg

No spice rack is complete without nutmeg.

It’s used in many different cuisines but this popular ingredient actually originated in Indonesia.

Nutmeg has a variety of different uses and can be added to both savory and sweet dishes.