Ingredients
Ingredient guides, substitutions, and notes — organized and easy to search.
Watermelon
Watermelon is a large, juicy fruit that belongs to the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes cucumbers and pumpkins. Originating in the arid regions of Africa, it has been cultivated for thousands of years and is now enjoyed worldwide, particularly during the summer months. Its flavor is refreshingly sweet with a subtle hint of floral notes, while its texture is crisp and succulent. The high water content of watermelon makes it ideal for hydration, and its vibrant red flesh is rich in lycopene. In cooking, watermelon's structure holds up well in chilled dishes but can become soft when cooked, lending itself to salsas, smoothies, and even grilled preparations where it caramelizes beautifully.
Whipping Cream
Rich and velvety, whipping cream is the epitome of indulgence. Its high fat content allows it to transform into fluffy peaks, perfect for crowning desserts or enriching sauces.
White Button Mushrooms
White button mushrooms are a common variety of mushroom found in most grocery stores across the United States. They are essentially young cremini mushrooms, harvested before they have had a chance to mature. Known for their mild flavor and firm texture, these mushrooms offer a subtle, earthy taste with a hint of nuttiness. When cooked, they develop a tender yet satisfyingly meaty texture, making them a versatile ingredient in both raw and cooked applications. In cooking, white button mushrooms are valued for their ability to absorb and enhance the flavors of sauces and seasonings, while also browning nicely when sautéed or roasted.
White Chocolate Chips
Creamy, sweet, and irresistibly smooth, white chocolate chips are a dreamy addition to any treat. Their rich, buttery essence melts beautifully into batters and bakes into a delightful golden hue.
White Granulated Sugar
A fine, sparkling crystal of pure sweetness, white granulated sugar is the quintessential sweetener that brings warmth and joy to countless dishes.
White Pepper
White pepper is a spice made from the seed of the pepper plant, with the outer layer removed. It has a milder, earthier flavor compared to black pepper, with a slightly musty aroma.
White Sandwich Bread
Soft, pillowy, and slightly sweet, white sandwich bread is a kitchen staple with its fine, even crumb and golden crust. It's the perfect canvas for countless culinary creations, from simple sandwiches to French toast.
White Sesame Seeds
White sesame seeds boast a mild, nutty flavor with a subtle sweetness that enhances rather than overwhelms. Their delicate aroma hints at toasted grains, and their tiny, smooth texture offers a satisfying crunch. Originating from the Middle East and India, these seeds have been a culinary staple for millennia. Valued for their ability to add depth and texture to dishes, they are a versatile ingredient in both savory and sweet preparations.
White Wine Vinegar
White wine vinegar is a mild, slightly acidic vinegar made from fermented white wine. It has a clean, tangy flavor that enhances a variety of dishes without overpowering them.
Whole Chicken
A plump, golden whole chicken, brimming with succulent, juicy meat and a delicate, crispy skin that promises a feast for the senses.
Whole Cloves
Whole cloves are the dried unopened flower buds of the clove tree, known for their strong, warm, and aromatic flavor. They are a popular spice used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Whole Cumin Seeds
Whole cumin seeds are the dried seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, offering a warm, earthy, and slightly bitter flavor with hints of citrus and spice.
Whole Grain Mustard
A robust and textured condiment with a harmonious blend of mustard seeds and tangy vinegar, offering a delightful crunch and a warm, pungent kick.
Whole Milk
Creamy and rich, whole milk is a pantry staple that brings a luxurious texture and depth of flavor to any dish. Its velvety mouthfeel and subtle sweetness make it a beloved choice for both sipping and cooking.
Whole Sage Leaves on Stem
Fresh sage leaves still clinging to their woody stems, offering an aromatic and earthy flavor with a velvety texture.
Whole Wheat Bread
A hearty loaf with a nutty aroma and a rich, golden crust, whole wheat bread offers a satisfying chew and a wholesome flavor.
Whole Wheat Flour
Whole wheat flour is a nutritious, whole-grain alternative to traditional all-purpose flour. Made by grinding entire wheat kernels, including the bran, germ, and endosperm, it is a staple in many cultures, particularly in North America, the Middle East, and parts of Europe. Its flavor profile is robust and nutty, with a hint of earthiness that sets it apart from milder flours. The texture is denser and coarser, yielding baked goods that are hearty and chewy rather than light and airy. In cooking, whole wheat flour behaves differently due to its higher fiber content, absorbing more liquid and producing a heavier final product. It is ideal for recipes where a rustic texture is desired, though it may require adjustments to achieve the right consistency.
Wild Rice
Wild rice is a nutrient-rich, earthy grain with a chewy texture and a delightful nutty flavor. Its deep, dark hue brings a rustic charm to any dish, while its robust taste adds depth to both savory and sweet creations.
Worcestershire Sauce
Worcestershire sauce is a tangy, savory condiment made from a blend of vinegar, molasses, anchovies, garlic, onions, and a variety of spices. Its complex flavor profile adds depth to many dishes.
Yellow Bell Pepper
Yellow bell peppers are sweet, mild, and slightly tangy, offering a vibrant color and a crisp texture that enhances both cooked and raw dishes.
Yellow Curry Paste
Yellow curry paste is a vibrant, aromatic blend of spices and herbs used predominantly in Thai cuisine. Originating from Thailand, it is distinguished by its distinctive yellow hue, derived from turmeric, which is also responsible for its mild earthy flavor. The paste features a harmonious balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes, thanks to ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, garlic, shallots, and chili peppers. Its texture is smooth and paste-like, making it easy to incorporate into dishes. When cooked, yellow curry paste infuses dishes with warmth and depth, thickening slightly and enhancing the overall richness of curries and stews without overwhelming other ingredients.
Yellow Mustard
Bright and tangy, yellow mustard is a pantry staple with a smooth, mild heat that awakens the palate. Its sunny hue and vibrant flavor make it a beloved condiment and cooking ingredient alike.
Yellow Squash
Yellow squash is a summer squash with a tender, edible skin and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Its cylindrical shape and vibrant yellow color make it a popular choice for a variety of dishes.
Yukon Gold Potatoes
Yukon Gold potatoes are a medium-sized potato variety known for their thin, yellow skin and buttery, golden flesh. They have a creamy texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that makes them a favorite for many dishes.