Ingredients
Ingredient guides, substitutions, and notes — organized and easy to search.
Ghee
Ghee is a type of clarified butter that originated in India. It is made by simmering butter to separate the milk solids and water from the pure butterfat, resulting in a rich, nutty-flavored fat that is ideal for cooking at high temperatures.
Ghost Pepper Powder
Ghost pepper powder delivers an intense, fiery heat with a fruity, smoky aroma that builds slowly on the palate. Originating from India and known scientifically as Bhut Jolokia, it boasts a Scoville rating that can exceed one million units. Its fine, dusty texture disperses easily, making it a potent spice for those who crave extreme heat. Valued for its ability to add a searing kick without overwhelming other flavors, it's a favorite in adventurous cuisines.
Giardiniera
Giardiniera is an Italian pickled vegetable condiment traditionally made with a mix of vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, celery, cauliflower, and onions. Originating from the Lombardy region of Italy, it has become popular in Italian-American cuisine, particularly in the Chicago area. The flavor profile is tangy and slightly spicy, with a pleasant crunch from the pickled vegetables. Its acidity comes from a vinegar base, often enhanced with herbs like fennel seeds, mustard seeds, and bay leaves. When eaten, giardiniera offers a delightful textural contrast with its firm yet tender vegetables. In cooking, it adds a burst of flavor and acidity to dishes, serving as both a condiment and an ingredient that can balance rich or fatty foods with its refreshing zing.
Glass Noodles (Cellophane Noodles)
Glass noodles, also known as cellophane noodles, are thin, translucent strands made from mung bean starch. Originating in East Asia, they are a staple in Chinese, Vietnamese, and Korean cuisines. These noodles have a mild, slightly nutty flavor and a unique chewy yet tender texture that makes them a versatile addition to many dishes. When cooked, they become translucent and slippery, absorbing flavors from broths and sauces without overpowering them. Glass noodles are often used in stir-fries, soups, and salads, where their ability to maintain integrity without becoming mushy is prized. They require soaking in warm water before use, which rehydrates them and makes them pliable for cooking.
Gluten-Free Pasta
A delightful alternative to traditional pasta, crafted from rice, corn, or quinoa, offering a tender bite and a smooth texture that dances on your palate.
Gnocchi
Gnocchi are small dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and eggs, though variations exist using semolina or other starches. Originating from Italy, these versatile dumplings have a rich history in regional cuisines across the country. They offer a mild, slightly earthy flavor that pairs well with a wide range of sauces and seasonings. The texture is pillowy and tender on the inside with a delicate chewiness on the outside, making them a delightful comfort food. When cooked, gnocchi are known for their ability to absorb sauces, yet they maintain a distinct integrity, often recognized by their signature ridges. In the kitchen, gnocchi cook quickly, making them an ideal choice for a swift yet satisfying meal.
Goat Cheese
Creamy and tangy, goat cheese offers a delightful, slightly earthy flavor that dances on your palate. Its soft, spreadable texture makes it a versatile ingredient in both hot and cold dishes.
Goat Milk
Goat milk is a nutritious alternative to cow's milk, derived from the milk of dairy goats. Originating from ancient farming practices, it has been consumed by humans for thousands of years, particularly in regions where goats thrive, such as the Middle East and parts of Europe. Its flavor is distinctively tangy and slightly sweet, with a lighter, creamier texture compared to cow's milk. The taste is often described as earthy and nutty, making it a favorite for those who find cow's milk too heavy or overly sweet. In cooking, goat milk behaves similarly to cow's milk but tends to curdle less due to its lower pH. It can be used in both sweet and savory dishes, offering richness without overwhelming other ingredients.
Gochugaru (Korean Chili Flakes)
Gochugaru offers a vibrant, smoky heat with a fruity undertone, reminiscent of sun-dried peppers. Its deep red flakes boast an earthy aroma that transports you to the bustling markets of Korea. The texture is coarse yet brittle, adding a satisfying crunch to dishes. Prized for its balance of spice and sweetness, it's a cornerstone of Korean cuisine, enriching everything from stews to marinades.
Gochujang Paste
Gochujang paste is a staple in Korean cuisine, known for its unique blend of spicy and savory flavors. Originating from Korea, this fermented paste is made primarily from red chili peppers, glutinous rice, fermented soybeans, and salt. Its flavor profile is complex, offering a balance of heat from the chilies, sweetness from the rice, and an umami depth from the fermented soybeans. The paste has a thick, smooth texture that clings well to other ingredients, enhancing their flavor. In cooking, gochujang is versatile, adding depth and spice to dishes while maintaining a certain tanginess from fermentation. It behaves well in marinades, sauces, and stews, contributing both heat and complexity without overwhelming other ingredients.
Golden Raisins
Golden raisins are dried grapes that have been treated to preserve their golden color, typically through a process involving sulfur dioxide. Originating from regions known for grape cultivation, such as California and Turkey, these raisins offer a unique twist on the traditional dried fruit. Their flavor profile is sweet with a subtle tanginess that is less intense than their darker counterparts. The texture is plump and tender, providing a chewiness that is pleasant in both baked goods and savory dishes. In cooking, golden raisins are versatile; they plump up beautifully when soaked in liquids, add natural sweetness without overwhelming other flavors, and maintain their color even after prolonged cooking, making them ideal for dishes where visual appeal is important.
Golden Syrup
Golden syrup is a sweet, amber-colored liquid derived from sugar cane or sugar beets. Originating in the United Kingdom, it has become a staple in British baking and cooking. The flavor profile is rich and complex, offering a balance of sweetness with subtle caramel and toffee notes. Its smooth, viscous texture makes it a pleasure to drizzle or spread. In cooking, golden syrup is prized for its ability to add moisture and a distinctive sweetness to baked goods, as well as its capacity to prevent sugar crystallization in candies and jams.
Granny Smith Apples
Granny Smith apples are a variety of apple known for their bright green skin, firm texture, and tart flavor. They are a popular choice for both cooking and eating fresh due to their crispness and acidity.
Granola
A delightful mix of rolled oats, nuts, honey, and a touch of sweetness, granola is a crunchy and wholesome treat that brings warmth and texture to your meals.
Granulated Garlic
Granulated garlic offers a robust, pungent flavor with a savory depth reminiscent of fresh garlic, but in a more concentrated form. Its aroma is assertive and unmistakably garlicky, with a slightly toasted nuance from the drying process. The texture is fine and powdery, making it easy to incorporate into dishes. Originating from garlic bulbs, it is a staple in many cuisines worldwide, prized for its convenience and long shelf life. Its versatility allows it to enhance everything from soups to meats without the hassle of mincing fresh cloves.
Granulated Onion
Granulated onion offers a potent, savory flavor with a slightly sweet undertone, capturing the essence of fresh onions without the moisture. Its aroma is sharp yet inviting, reminiscent of a bustling kitchen. The fine, powdery texture dissolves effortlessly into dishes, making it an ideal choice for recipes needing onion flavor without the crunch. Originating from the culinary traditions of preserving onions for long-term use, granulated onion is a staple in many global cuisines. Its concentrated flavor makes it invaluable for enhancing soups, stews, and marinades.
Grapes
Grapes are small, round fruits that grow in clusters on vines, primarily cultivated in temperate zones around the world. Originating from the Near East, they have been cultivated for thousands of years and are integral to many cuisines and cultures, notably in winemaking. Grapes come in a variety of colors including green, red, purple, and black, each offering a unique flavor profile. They are known for their sweet yet slightly tart taste, with a pleasant, fruity aroma. Their texture is firm yet yielding, with a satisfying pop when bitten into, and they house a small, crunchy seed in many varieties, though seedless types are commonly found in markets. In cooking, grapes can be used fresh or dried, and they behave well in both sweet and savory dishes, contributing natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil is a light, neutral-flavored oil extracted from the seeds of grapes. It is prized for its high smoke point and versatility in cooking.
Grated Parmesan Cheese
A sprinkle of golden, nutty bliss that transforms any dish into a symphony of savory delight. Each grain of Grated Parmesan Cheese carries the essence of aged perfection, offering a rich, umami flavor that dances on your taste buds.
Gravy Mix
A cozy, golden powder that transforms into a velvety, savory sauce with just a splash of liquid. Each spoonful holds the promise of comfort and warmth, evoking memories of hearty meals and festive gatherings.
Greek Seasoning
Greek seasoning is a fragrant blend of dried herbs and spices that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Its flavor profile is robust, featuring oregano's earthiness, thyme's subtle mintiness, and a hint of rosemary's piney depth, often complemented by a touch of garlic and onion. The texture is finely ground, making it easy to sprinkle evenly over dishes. Originating from Greece, it reflects the country's love for simple yet bold flavors. Its versatility makes it invaluable for enhancing meats, vegetables, and grains with a taste of the Aegean.
Greek Yogurt (Whole Milk)
Greek yogurt is a thick, creamy dairy product made by straining traditional yogurt to remove much of its whey, resulting in a denser texture. Originating in Greece, it has become a staple in many kitchens worldwide due to its versatility and rich taste. Whole milk Greek yogurt offers a luxurious mouthfeel, with a tangy yet slightly sweet flavor profile that can vary depending on the brand and fermentation process. Its texture is smooth and velvety, making it ideal for both savory and sweet applications. In cooking, Greek yogurt adds richness and creaminess to dishes without the heaviness of cream, and its high protein content helps it maintain structure, making it a superb ingredient for baking and cooking techniques that require stability and moisture retention.
Green Beans
Green beans, also known as string beans or snap beans, are a beloved staple in many cuisines around the world. Originating in the Americas, they have become a global favorite due to their versatility and ease of cultivation. Fresh green beans offer a mild, grassy flavor with a hint of sweetness, balanced by a satisfying crispness when eaten raw. When cooked, they maintain a tender yet firm texture, making them ideal for a variety of preparations. Their subtle flavor allows them to absorb seasonings well, making them a canvas for herbs, spices, and sauces. In cooking, green beans can be quickly blanched, sautéed, roasted, or steamed, and they maintain their vibrant color and nutrients when prepared properly.
Green Bell Pepper
Green bell peppers are crisp, slightly bitter, and crunchy vegetables that add a fresh, vibrant flavor to dishes. They are harvested before fully ripening, which gives them their distinct green color and firmer texture.