Most people associate black foods with festivals and feasts because they look so fancy, but they forget that some of the healthiest foods are also black. It is not usual to find many dishes or foods that are black in color, which makes it all the more exotic.
Apart from this, black foods are also known to be effective in weight loss, cancer prevention, and digestion.
Whether you’re looking for a new culinary adventure or just want to know about foods that are black, this list of black foods is all you need! From natural black foods to appetizers and desserts, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Outline
The List: 55 Foods That Are Black
1. Black Rice
Black rice is a variety of rice that is deep black in color. It has a nutty flavor and a chewy texture and is best eaten cooked in water or broth, and can be used in place of other types of rice in most recipes.
Did you know: Black rice is also known as “forbidden rice” because it was once reserved for only the Chinese Emperor and his family.
2. Black Coffee
Black coffee is a strong, bitter coffee that is often used as a base for other coffee drinks. It is made by brewing coffee beans with water and no added milk or sugar. The coffee beans used for black coffee are typically roasted longer than beans used for other types of coffee, which gives the drink its characteristic dark color and strong flavor.
Did you know: Despite its name, black coffee actually contains very little caffeine.
3. Blackberries
Native to Europe, Blackberries are a dark-colored fruit with a tart and slightly sweet taste. They are best eaten fresh but can also be used in many different recipes, including pies, tarts, jams, and even wine.
Blackberries are a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they also contain antioxidants, which can help protect the body from disease.
Did you know: The blackberry is not a true berry, but is instead an aggregate fruit.
4. Black Corn
Native to Central America, Black Corn is a variety of maize that is black in color. It has a sweet, nutty flavor and a chewy texture and is often used in soups, stews, and salads. The kernels of black corn are smaller and darker than those of other maize varieties. Black corn is a nutritious and delicious way to add color and flavor to your meals.
Did you know: Black corn is also known as “black maize,” “mahogany cobs,” or “cornichon noir.”
5. Black Sesame Seeds
Black sesame seeds are small, black seeds that come from the sesame plant with a nutty flavor and a crunchy texture. They can be eaten whole, or they can be ground into a powder and used as a seasoning.
Did you Know: Black sesame seeds have been used in Asian cuisine for centuries.
6. Black Bread
Traditionally made in Eastern European Countries, black bread is a type of bread that is usually made with rye flour. It has a dense, chewy texture and a slightly sour taste.
Black bread is best eaten with butter or cream cheese, and can also be used for making sandwiches.
7. Black Lentils
Also known as Beluga lentils, Black lentils are small, glossy, and kidney-shaped lentils native to India. They have a nutty flavor with a firm texture.
When choosing black lentils, make sure to look for ones that are shiny and have a uniform color. Avoid lentils that are dull in color or have any discoloration.
Did you know: Black lentils are called beluga lentils because of their resemblance to beluga caviar.
8. Quinoa
Native to South America, Quinoa is a grain-like crop that is grown for its edible seed which can be white, black, or red in color. It has a nutty flavor and a chewy, slightly crunchy texture. It can be eaten cooked as a hot cereal, or used in cold salads or pilafs.
Quinoa is classified as a superfood, and for a good reason. It is very high in fiber and is also a complete protein, which means that it contains all the essential amino acids.
9. Black Tea
The most common type of tea consumed in the world, Black tea is a type of tea that is typically made from the Camellia sinensis plant. The leaves are withered and oxidized, which gives the tea its characteristic black color. It can be enjoyed plain or with milk and sugar and is also a popular ingredient in many mixed drinks, such as chai lattes and bubble tea.
10. Black Beans
Native to South America, Black beans are small, dark-colored beans that have a slightly sweet taste. Black beans are a versatile ingredient and are often used in Mexican and South American dishes. These little black gems are a powerhouse of nutrients!
Black beans can also be used as a substitute for pinto beans or kidney beans.
11. Black Caviar
Black caviar is the eggs of the sturgeon fish that are typically black or dark gray in color. The roe is harvested and then cured in salt. It has a unique, salty flavor and a crunchy texture. It is often eaten as an appetizer or hors d’oeuvre.
Did you know: The most prized caviar comes from the beluga sturgeon, which is found in the Caspian Sea.
12. Black Garlic
If you haven’t tried black garlic yet, then you’re missing out! Black garlic is a type of aged garlic that has been fermented for several weeks or months. It has a very deep, rich flavor that is sweet with underlying sour notes and is said to boost the immune system.
13. Black Olives
If you love pizza, then you must be familiar with black olives. These are actually ripe olives that have been cured in iron-rich water, which gives them their distinctive color. They have a slightly bitter taste and firm texture and are often used as a topping on pizzas and salads or as an ingredient in pasta dishes.
14. Black Cheese
While the name black cheese doesn’t sound very appetizing, the flavor begs to differ. It is a very sharp and tangy cheese made using activated charcoal. Black cheese is known to aid in digestion and also helps to detoxify the body.
15. Black Wheat
Have you been wondering how people make black buns or rotis? The secret ingredient is black wheat! This wheat has a high content of anthocyanin, which is responsible for its dark color. Black wheat is also very nutritious as it is a good source of fiber.
16. Shetland Black Potatoes
Potatoes are usually thought of as being white or brown colored, but they also come in black. Native to the Shetland Islands, these potatoes have an earthy flavor and are slightly more dense than the other varieties. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals and can be boiled, baked, or roasted.
Did you know: Black potatoes are actually deep purple in color but it looks like black that’s why the name.
17. Black Grapes
Black grapes are a type of grape that is typically black in color but can also be deep purple or even bluish-black. The flesh of black grapes is firm and juicy and is usually used to make wines and juices. They are a good source of antioxidants and can also be eaten raw.
18. Black Figs
Black Figs are a type of fig that is black in color and has a sweet taste and soft texture. It is believed to have originated in the Mediterranean region.
It is best eaten fresh or dried and is often used in desserts and baking recipes.
19. Black Soybean
Are you struggling to find black foods with a high protein content? Try out the black soybean! This little black seed is a complete protein and also contains fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can be used to make tofu, tempeh, or miso.
20. Black Spaghetti
Black spaghetti is a type of pasta that is made using cuttlefish ink. It has a very unique flavor and is also a good source of protein. The combination of the black spaghetti with the ingredients you add to it makes it a unique pasta dish for spaghetti lovers.
21. American Lobster
The American lobster is a type of lobster that is found in the Atlantic Ocean. It has a black shell and is very meaty, making it a dish that can be boiled, grilled, or steamed. Seafood lovers will be delighted to get this treat!
22. Black Ice Cream
Black ice cream is a type of ice cream that is made with black charcoal. It is usually black in color and has a smooth, creamy texture. The taste of black charcoal ice cream is similar to that of regular ice cream, but it may have a slightly smoky flavor.
23. Black Pansy Flower
The black pansy flower is a type of black flower with a velvety texture. It has a slightly sweet taste and is best eaten raw or used as a decorative garnish. The pansy flower is known to have many health benefits and is also a good source of antioxidants.
The flowers can also be dried and used in potpourri.
24. Black Tomatoes
Black tomatoes are a variety of tomatoes that are characterized by their deep black color. The fruit is usually slightly smaller than a regular tomato and has a slightly sweeter taste. They are often used in salads, salsas, and sauces and are also a good source of antioxidants and vitamins A and C.
25. Kookaburra Australian Black Licorice
Native to Australia, Kookaburra licorice is made from the root of the kookaburra plant, which is a member of the pea family. The licorice is black in color and has a strong flavor.
26. Black Walnuts
Native to North America, black walnuts are a type of tree nut encased in a hard, black shell. They have a rich, distinct flavor and can be eaten raw, roasted, or used in baking and cooking.
27. Black Crab
The only black thing about the black crab is its carapace. The meat of the black crab is actually white. This type of crab is found in the coastal waters of Australia and is an excellent source of protein for seafood lovers.
28. Sapote
The sapote is a type of black fruit found only in Mexico. The pulp of this fruit is dark brown or black when ripe and has a soft, custard-like texture. It has a smooth texture and sweet taste that makes it ideal as a dessert.
29. Black Dates
Native to the Middle East, Black Dates are a type of fruit with black skin and white flesh. The taste of black dates is sweet and slightly chewy, with a texture that is similar to that of a raisin. They can be eaten fresh or dried, and are also used to make date syrup and date wine.
30. Japanese Densuke Watermelon
There is not a lot of difference between the Japanese Densuke watermelon and the regular watermelon, except for its black skin. This watermelon is a good source of vitamins A and C and potassium.
Did you know: It is the world’s most expensive watermelon with prices reaching up to $6000 in auctions.
31. Chaga Mushrooms
Chaga mushrooms are a type of fungi that typically grow on the bark of trees. They are known for their dark, blackish appearance and hard, woody texture.
Chaga mushrooms have a bitter taste and are often used in traditional Chinese medicine.
32. Black Seed Oil
Black seed oil is a natural oil that is extracted from the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant. It has a bitter taste and is often used as a flavoring agent in Middle Eastern and North African cuisine.
33. Chia Seeds
Native to Mexico and Guatemala, Chia seeds are small, black seeds that come from the Salvia hispanica plant. They have a nutty flavor and can be added to a variety of dishes, including breakfast cereals, yogurt, soups, and salads.
Chia seeds can also be ground into flour that can be used to bake breads and other goods.
34. Black Cod Fish
Found in the North Pacific Ocean, the Black cod is a species of fish that has a black or dark brown body with white or cream-colored flesh. It is a prized food fish, and it is considered to be a delicacy in Japan. It is also known as sablefish, butterfish, coalfish, and blue cod.
35. Edible Black Fungus Mushroom
Edible black fungus mushrooms, also known as Auricularia auricula-judae, are a type of edible mushroom that is popular in many Asian cuisines. These mushrooms have an ear-like shape and are black in color. They have a chewy texture and a slightly sweet taste.
36. Chilhuacle Chili
If there is one food on this list that is extremely rare to find, it is the Chilhuacle chili. Chilhuacle chili peppers are native to Mexico and are named after the town of Chilhuacle in Oaxaca. These peppers are typically red, but can also be found in yellow, orange, and black.
They are relatively small, measuring only about 2-3 inches in length, and have a unique flavor that is both smoky and fruity, with hints of chocolate.
37. Black Century Eggs
Black century eggs, also known as hundred-year eggs, are a traditional Chinese delicacy. The eggs are preserved in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, lime, and rice hulls for several weeks to several months, during which time they undergo a chemical reaction that results in the yolk turning a dark green or black color, the white becoming a dark brown jelly, and the eggshells becoming stained a deep blue-black.
The eggs have a strong, pungent odor and a very salty taste. The yolk is rich and creamy, while the white is gelatinous and slightly sweet.
38. Black Velvet Tamarind
The Black Velvet Tamarind is a tropical fruit that grows on trees in the rainforests of South America. It is about the size of a plum and has black, velvety skin with white flesh that is very tart. It is often used in jams, jellies, and sauces.
39. Black Squid Ink Pasta
If you feel like trying out something new, try cooking with squid ink. It adds flavor and color to pasta and rice dishes. While it may not be the most appetizing ingredient, it is definitely worth trying!
40. Black Seaweed
Black seaweed is a type of algae that grows in the ocean. It has a dark blue or black color, and a slimy texture. It is often used in Asian cuisine and has a slightly sweet taste.
41. Activated Charcoal
Activated charcoal is a black, odorless powder that is tasteless and non-toxic. It is usually made from coconut shells or other natural sources of carbon. Activated charcoal is sometimes used as a natural treatment for digestive issues like bloating, gas, and diarrhea.
42. Black Currant
Native to Europe and Asia, Black currants are small, dark berries that resemble blackberries in appearance. They have a tart, tangy taste and are often used in jams, jellies, and syrups.
43. Black Carrots
Black carrots are a type of carrot that gets its unusual color from anthocyanin, a type of flavonoid. They were first cultivated in Turkey and Iran, but are now grown in many countries around the world.
Black carrots have a similar taste and texture to regular carrots, but with a slightly earthier flavor.
44. Black Pepper
Black pepper is the fruit of the Piper nigrum plant and is used as a spice and seasoning. The black pepper plant produces small, dark berries that are harvested and dried to create the black peppercorns used as a spice. It has a sharp, pungent flavor that is used to add flavor to food.
45. Black Goji Berries
Native to China, Black Goji Berries are a type of berry that are small and black in color, with a sweet taste. They are a good source of antioxidants and are also thought to boost the immune system.
46. Black Radish
Native to Europe and Asia, Black radishes are a type of root vegetable that is typically black in color. They have a sharp, pungent flavor and a crunchy texture. Black radishes are best eaten raw or cooked but when cooked, they become milder in flavor.
47. Black Hawaiian Sea Salt
Black Hawaiian sea salt is a type of salt that is black in color and is used in many dishes, including sushi, sashimi, and tempura. It is also used in cosmetics and skin care products and is said to have many benefits, including being able to help with acne, wrinkles, and other skin problems.
48. Black Velvet Cake
Red Velvet Cake is a thing of the past, enter Black Velvet Cake. Black Velvet Cake is a type of cake that is characterized by its dark, rich color and velvety texture. It is made with chocolate, coffee, or cocoa powder, which gives it its distinctive color.
Black Velvet Cake is a popular choice for special occasions and celebrations, as its rich flavor and elegant appearance make it a showstopping dessert.
Check out the recipe for black velvet cake here.
49. Black Martini
Blackbeard martini is a type of cocktail that is made with gin, vermouth, and orange bitters. It is named after the 18th-century pirate Edward Teach, better known as “Blackbeard”. This martini is said to have a strong, bold flavor with a hint of sweetness from the orange bitters.
50. Haas Avocados
Haas Avocados are a type of avocado that is known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. When ripe, the skin of a Haas avocado appears black and bumpy, and the flesh is a bright green color. They are typically larger than other types of avocados, and they have a higher fat content.
51. Black Jelly
Black jelly is a type of jelly with a distinctively deep, dark color and a smooth, glossy texture. It is often used as a decorative element in desserts and other dishes.
52. Kuro-Tamago
Kuro-Tamago, also known as Black Eggs, is a type of egg that is popular in Japanese cuisine. The taste and texture of Kuro-Tamago is similar to that of a regular egg, although the black color can make it appear slightly richer.
So, if you’re ever in Japan and looking for a unique culinary experience, be sure to try some Kuro-Tamago!
53. Black Diamond Apple
Black Diamond apple is a variety of apple that is known for its black skin. The apples are small to medium in size and have a sweet taste with a slight tartness. The flesh of the apple is white or cream-colored.
54. Black Sapote
Also known as chocolate pudding fruit, Black Sapote is a tropical fruit native to Mexico and Central America. It has a black, soft, and custard-like flesh that tastes like chocolate pudding. Black sapote is typically eaten fresh, but can also be used in pies, puddings, and other desserts.
55. Montezuma’s Absolute Black Dark Chocolate
Absolute Black is Montezuma’s premium dark chocolate with intense flavor and rich cocoa content. With a deep, dark color and a smooth, velvety texture, Absolute Black is the perfect choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
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