4 Letter Foods

As you can imagine, many foods have 4 letters. Below, you’ll find an extensive list of various foods from across the globe that have 4 letters.

53 Foods with 4 Letters

As we are looking at foods with slightly more letters here, it’s easy to come up with plenty of options. In the list below, you’ll find a mix of some foods you can probably think of quite easily alongside some slightly more obscure foods:

1. Acai

Acai berries are small, dark purple fruits from the acai palm tree, native to South America. They are known for their antioxidant properties and are popular in smoothie bowls and juices.

2. Baoz

Baozi are Chinese steamed buns that can be filled with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or sweet red bean paste. They are a staple in Chinese cuisine and enjoyed worldwide.

3. Bass

Bass is a popular type of fish known for its white, flaky flesh and mild taste, which adapts well to various cooking methods. Whether grilled, roasted, or pan-fried, it’s a favourite in many cuisines, offering a delicious and nutritious option for seafood lovers.

4. Beet

Beets are vibrant root vegetables renowned for their earthy flavour and numerous health benefits. They can be roasted to bring out their sweetness, boiled for a quick side dish, or even eaten raw, grated into salads. The leaves are also edible and highly nutritious.

5. Brie

Originating from France, Brie is a soft, creamy cheese that’s beloved around the world. Its mild flavour can develop into a more pronounced, earthy profile as it ripens, making it a favourite on cheese boards and in cooking.

6. Carp

Carp is a freshwater fish with a rich history in European and Asian cuisine. Known for its ability to adapt to different cooking methods, carp can be grilled, boiled, or transformed into delightful fish balls, offering versatility and a unique taste.

7. Chia

Chia seeds have gained popularity for their high nutritional value and unique ability to absorb liquid, creating a gel-like texture. They’re a fantastic addition to puddings, smoothies, and baked goods, and are packed with omega-3 fatty acids and fibre.

8. Clam

Clams are a type of shellfish that bring a mild, briny flavour to a variety of dishes. From the classic clam chowder to pasta dishes, clams are versatile and delightful, offering a taste of the ocean in every bite.

9. Coda

Though less common, the fish tail, or coda, is a tasty and often overlooked part of the fish. Grilling or frying it can create a deliciously crispy texture, making for a unique and enjoyable dish.

10. Date

Dates are a naturally sweet fruit that come from the date palm tree. They are versatile, enjoyed on their own, stuffed with nuts or cheese, or used in baking and cooking for a burst of natural sweetness.

11. Dill

Dill is an aromatic herb that brings a fresh, grassy flavour to a wide range of dishes. It pairs wonderfully with fish, adds a bright note to soups and salads, and is a key ingredient in pickling.

12. Dosa

Dosa is a type of thin, crispy pancake made from a fermented batter of rice and urad dal (black gram). It is a popular dish in South Indian cuisine.

13. Duck

Known for its rich, gamey flavour and dark, tender meat, duck is a luxurious choice for many dishes. Roasting brings out its best qualities, and the rendered fat can be saved and used to add richness to other dishes.

14. Fava

Fava beans are a staple in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, cherished for their buttery texture and slightly nutty flavour. They require a bit of preparation but are worth the effort, delicious when boiled, fried, or stewed.

15. Flax

Flax seeds are celebrated for their health benefits, packed with fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, and lignans. They can be added to smoothies, oatmeal, or used in baking, offering a nutritious boost to any meal.

16. Fugu

Fugu is a Japanese delicacy made from pufferfish. It is extremely poisonous if not prepared correctly, requiring chefs to undergo rigorous training to serve it safely.

17. Hake

Hake is a white fish with a mild flavour, often compared to cod. It’s versatile, lending itself well to baking, frying, and grilling, and is a popular choice in many European countries.

18. Hoki

Hoki is a type of blue hake, a fish native to the waters around New Zealand and Australia. It is known for its firm, white flesh and is often used in fish and chips.

19. Kiwi

The kiwi is a small, brown, fuzzy fruit that hides a vibrant green interior dotted with tiny black seeds. Its tangy yet sweet flavour and unique texture make it a favourite for snacking, desserts, and even as a natural meat tenderizer.

20. Leek

As a member of the onion family, leeks bring a mild, onion-like flavour to a variety of dishes, most famously leek and potato soup. They require thorough cleaning, but their versatility and delicious taste make them worth the effort.

21. Lime

Limes are citrus fruits celebrated for their tart, zesty flavour. They’re a staple in many cuisines, used to add a burst of brightness to dishes, as a garnish for drinks, and even in baking.

22. Malt

Malt, made from sprouted and dried grains (usually barley), plays a crucial role in brewing and distilling. Its rich, toasty flavour is also a beloved addition to various foods, from malted milkshakes to certain types of confections.

23. Milk

As a cornerstone of nutrition, milk from various animals (predominantly cows) is consumed worldwide. It’s a versatile ingredient in cooking and baking, and is processed into an array of products including cheese, yoghurt, and butter.

24. Mint

Mint is a fragrant herb known for its cool, refreshing flavour. It’s widely used in both sweet and savoury dishes, beverages, and is particularly loved for its ability to aid digestion.

25. Naan

Naan is a type of leavened bread popular in Indian cuisine, traditionally cooked in a tandoor (clay oven). It is soft, fluffy, and perfect for scooping up curries.

26. Napa

Napa cabbage, also known as Chinese cabbage, has crisp, light green leaves and is commonly used in Asian cuisine, particularly in kimchi.

27. Nori

Nori is a type of edible seaweed frequently used in Japanese cuisine, notably as the outer wrapping for sushi rolls. It has a crisp texture and a unique salty, umami flavour that is cherished in many Asian dishes.

28. Okra

Okra is a green vegetable popular in Southern US, African, and Indian cuisines. Its unique slimy texture when cooked is loved by some but is what puts some people off. Roasting okra is a great way to prevent this slimy texture.

29. Oleo

Oleo is an older term for margarine, a non-dairy butter substitute made from vegetable oils. It was once a popular baking and spread option due to its affordability and long shelf life.

30. Pate

Pate is a spread made from ground meat and fat, often enriched with spices, wine, or other flavourings. It’s a luxurious addition to crackers and bread, offering a rich and savoury experience.

31. Poha

Poha is a dish made from flattened rice, commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack in India. It is light, nutritious, and can be prepared in various ways, including with vegetables, peanuts, and spices.

32. Pork

Pork, the meat from pigs, is one of the most widely consumed meats globally. From bacon and sausages to pork chops and roasts, its versatility and flavourful nature make it a staple in many cuisines.

33. Piki

Piki bread is a type of blue cornbread integral to the Hopi people of the southwestern United States. It is thin, wafer-like, and has a delicate taste.

34. Rice

Rice is a fundamental food staple for more than half the world’s population. It comes in numerous varieties and can be used in everything from main courses and sides to desserts.

35. Roux

Roux is a mixture of fat and flour, cooked together and used to thicken sauces, soups, and stews. It’s a foundational element in many classic French sauces and dishes.

36. Rusk

Rusk is a hard, dry biscuit or a twice-baked bread. It’s commonly used as a baby teething food, in religious rituals, and as a snack with tea or coffee.

37. Sage

Sage is a fragrant herb with a slightly peppery taste, often used in Mediterranean and Western cooking, particularly with poultry and in stuffing.

38. Salt

Salt is a crystalline mineral used as a seasoning in food, a preservative, and for various other functions in cooking. It’s essential to human health, though it’s important to use it in moderation.

39. Sole

Sole is a type of flatfish prized for its delicate flesh and mild, sweet flavour. It is most commonly pan-fried, though it can also be grilled or baked.

40. Soup

Soup is a liquid dish made by boiling ingredients, such as meat, vegetables, or legumes in stock or water. It ranges from clear broths to thick, creamy varieties and is enjoyed worldwide.

41. Suet

Suet is the raw, hard fat of beef or mutton found around the loins and kidneys. It is a traditional ingredient in British cuisine, used in puddings, pastries, and mincemeat.

42. Taco

A quintessential element of Mexican cuisine, tacos consist of a folded or rolled tortilla filled with an assortment of ingredients. These can range from various types of grilled or stewed meats, to fresh vegetables, and a variety of salsas and condiments.

43. Taro

Taro is a starchy root vegetable that boasts a unique nutty flavour, making it a beloved ingredient in various global cuisines. It can be boiled, baked, or fried, and is often used in dishes ranging from savoury stews to sweet desserts.

44. Teal

This small species of duck is sought after for its rich and flavorful meat, which offers a gamey alternative to more common poultry. Teal can be prepared in various ways, though it is often roasted or grilled to enhance its natural flavours.

45. Tuna

As a member of the mackerel family, tuna stands out for its rich, flavorful meat and its popularity in both fresh and canned forms. It is a staple in various global cuisines, enjoyed raw in Japanese sashimi and sushi, and cooked in myriad ways in other cultures.

46. Udon

These thick, wheat-based noodles are a beloved element of Japanese cuisine, known for their chewy texture and versatility. Udon can be served in a savoury broth, topped with ingredients like tempura, green onions, and tofu, or enjoyed cold with a dipping sauce.

47. Ugli

Ugli fruit is a Jamaican form of tangelo, a citrus fruit created by hybridizing a grapefruit, an orange, and a tangerine.

48. Veal

Sourced from young cattle, veal is prized for its tender texture and mild flavour, distinguishing it from beef. It is used in various dishes, including the Italian veal Milanese, where it is breaded and fried to golden perfection.

49. Whey

A byproduct of the cheese-making process, whey is the liquid that remains after milk has been curdled and strained. It is rich in protein and other nutrients, finding use in various food products, dietary supplements, and even in animal feed.

50. Yolk

The yolk is the nutrient-rich, fatty core of an egg, distinguished by its vibrant yellow or orange colour. It plays a crucial role in both cooking and baking, acting as an emulsifier, thickener, and flavour enhancer.

Yolks are also enjoyed on their own, whether poached, boiled, or fried, providing a rich and satisfying eating experience.

51. Yuzu

Yuzu is a citrus fruit from East Asia, valued for its unique tart flavor, which is a cross between a grapefruit and a mandarin orange.

52. Zest

Derived from the outer peel of citrus fruits, zest is a culinary ingredient celebrated for its intense, tangy flavour. It is commonly used in baking to infuse cakes and pastries with a burst of citrus, as well as in cooking to enhance the flavour profile of various dishes.

Zest’s aromatic quality also makes it a popular choice for homemade marinades, dressings, and infused oils.

53. Ziti

This tube-shaped pasta is a staple in Italian-American cuisine, particularly beloved when baked in casseroles with rich tomato sauces and melted cheese. Ziti’s robust structure allows it to hold up well under layers of ingredients.