We can’t fault you for thinking about chocolate as soon as you hear about foods that are brown, but why stop there when there are so many other great options out there? From coffee to pasta, brown rice to baked beans, there are so many brown foods out there.
You don’t have to limit yourself to either sweet or savory when thinking about including brown food items in your diet. What’s more? They have multiple health benefits, such as being high in fiber. Check out this list of brown-colored foods below.
Outline
The List: 51 Brown Foods
Here is a list of all the foods that are brown.
1. Brown Rice
A very healthy brown food and an alternative to white rice, brown rice is whole grain rice that’s minimally processed. The husk, bran, and germ are still intact, making it a more nutritious option than white rice.
Brown rice has a nutty taste and chewy texture and is a great addition to any meal, thanks to its versatile taste and texture. Though they do take more time to cook compared to white rice.
Did you know: Brown rice is actually a whole grain? That’s right – brown rice is not just a healthier version of white rice, but a whole different grain altogether.
2. Potatoes
Potatoes are one of the most popular brown foods from the perennial nightshade family, which also includes tomatoes, peppers, and eggplant. They come in many different shapes and sizes and can be white, yellow, red, or even purple in color.
Potatoes are a very versatile food with a starchy texture and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor. They are best eaten when they are cooked until tender. Overcooking potatoes can make them mushy and unappetizing. Potatoes are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, iron, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and fiber.
Did you Know: There is about 3 grams of protein in the skin of a medium-sized potato?
3. Almonds
A nutritious brown food, almond nuts are small, oval-shaped seeds that come from the almond tree. They are known for their crunchy texture and sweet, nutty flavor.
Almonds are also a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats and can be eaten whole, roasted, blanched, or made into a paste. They have a variety of uses in the culinary world and are often used as a garnish or topping on desserts and other sweet dishes.
Did you know: Just one ounce of almonds contains six grams of protein, making them a perfect snack for those looking to increase their protein intake.
4. Whole wheat Pasta
A healthy alternative to regular white pasta, whole wheat pasta is a type of pasta made from whole wheat flour. It is best eaten with a tomato-based sauce or a pesto sauce and can also be used in a variety of dishes, such as lasagna, macaroni and cheese, and spaghetti.
Did you know: Whole wheat pasta contains selenium, which is an important nutrient for maintaining a healthy immune system.
5. Brown Bread
Pairing some delicious whole wheat pasta with white bread? Not a good idea! Brown bread or whole wheat bread is a healthier option that’s just as delicious.
Brown bread is a type of bread that is made with whole wheat flour, which means that it contains all of the nutrients and fiber of the wheat grain. It has a dark brown color and a dense, chewy texture.
Did you know: Brown Bread was actually created by mistake! In the early 1800s, a miller in England forgot to add the required amount of white flour to his whole wheat flour, and the resulting bread was a dark brown color.
6. Walnuts
Walnuts are an edible seed that comes from the walnut tree, native to Asia. They are usually brown in color, but can also be black, white, or yellow in color.
The outer shell of the walnut is hard and smooth, while the inner seed is soft and crunchy. They have a sweet, nutty flavor and are often used in baking and cooking. They are used in a variety of recipes, including cakes, cookies, muffins, and bread.
Walnuts can also be used to make oil, which is used in cooking and cosmetics.
Did you know: Walnuts are not actually nuts, but rather drupes? Drupes are a type of fruit that has a hard outer shell with a seed inside.
7. Brown Mushrooms
If you’re a fan of mushrooms, then you’ll love brown mushrooms. Brown mushrooms are a variety of mushroom that is typically brown in color. They are found all over the world and have a wide range of flavors and textures. Some of the most popular varieties of brown mushrooms include shiitake, oyster, and cremini mushrooms.
Mushrooms are best eaten cooked as they can contain harmful toxins when eaten raw. However, some people do enjoy eating raw mushrooms as well. If you do choose to eat them raw, it is important to wash them thoroughly first to remove any dirt or potential toxins.
They can be cooked in a variety of ways including sautéed, grilled, roasted, or baked, and are often used in Asian Cuisine.
Did You Know: Mushrooms are not plants, but are actually a type of fungus.
8. Black Chana
Black chana is a type of chickpea that is popular in many parts of the world, especially in India. The beans are small and brown in color, with a firm texture and a nutty flavor. Black chana is an excellent source of protein and fiber and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Black chana is also a popular snack food and can be roasted and spiced for a tasty treat. Though I wonder why it’s called black chana when it’s clearly brown in color, don’t you?
9. Pecan
Native to North America, pecan nuts are the edible seeds of the pecan tree. It is oval in shape and has a brownish-black or dark brown shell with a golden to light brown kernel.
Pecans have a sweet, buttery flavor and are typically eaten as a snack food, but they can also be used in baking and cooking. Though in my opinion, pecan nuts are best eaten raw, roasted, or chopped and added to salads.
Did you know: Pecan is actually a type of drupe or stone fruit? This means that botanically speaking, pecan is more closely related to a plum or an apricot than it is to other types of nuts.
10. Ginger
Rich in flavor and aroma, ginger is a root vegetable that is native to Asia. It has brown or tan skin and flesh that ranges in color from yellow to white. It has a slightly sweet and peppery taste with a spicy and pungent aroma.
The best way to eat ginger is to slice it or dice it and add it to your favorite dish. It is used in many Asian dishes and is a popular ingredient in curries.
Did you know: Ginger has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for stomach issues? It is thought to help settle the stomach and calm nausea.
11. Chocolate
Probably the most popular brown food on this list, chocolate is a food made from cacao beans. The beans are first fermented, then roasted, and finally ground into a powder. The powder is used to make chocolate liquor, which is a thick, dark liquid. This liquor is then mixed with sugar, milk, and other ingredients to make different types of chocolate.
Chocolate has a sweet, rich flavor and a smooth texture. It is often used to flavor other foods, such as cakes and cookies.
Did you know: The first chocolate factory was built in 1764 in England.
12. Soft Caramel
The word “caramel” comes from the French word “caramelize,” which means “to turn into sugar.” Soft caramel is a type of candy made by heating sugar until it turns brown. The sugar is then cooled and formed into a variety of shapes, including balls, squares, and disks.
Soft Caramel is often used as a filling for chocolates and candies, or it can be eaten on its own. Although it is typically made with white sugar, brown sugar can also be used to give the caramel a deeper flavor. In addition, other ingredients, such as cream, butter, and vanilla extract, are often added to soft caramels to create a richer taste.
Soft caramels are sweet and creamy, and they melt in your mouth. They are also fairly easy to make at home, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
Did you know: Soft Caramel is one of the oldest sweets in the world? It’s thought to have originated in Persia and was made with goat’s milk and honey.
13. Rye Crackers
Rye crackers first made their appearance in the early 1800s as a type of hardtack, or simple unleavened bread. Today, they are a popular snack food and can be found in most supermarkets.
They are made from a combination of rye flour, whole wheat flour, and water. The dough is rolled flat and then cut into small squares or rectangles. The crackers are then baked until crisp.
For a delicious and easy snack, top rye crackers with your favorite cheese or spreads. You can also use them in place of breadcrumbs in recipes. Crushed rye crackers make a great coating for chicken or fish.
14. Chestnuts
Chestnuts are a type of nut that is native to parts of Asia and Europe. They have a hard, shiny brown outer shell and a white or pale yellow inner flesh. Chestnuts are sweet and nutty in taste, with a slightly chewy texture.
Chestnuts are best eaten roasted or boiled. When buying chestnuts, look for ones that are plump and have shiny, smooth shells. Avoid nuts that are cracked, bruised, or have dull shells.
Did you know: Chestnuts are actually a type of fruit? Unlike other fruits, chestnuts have a hard outer shell that protects the inner edible fruit.
15. Mushroom Soup
A healthy brown food, mushroom soup is a type of soup that contains mushrooms as the primary ingredient. It can be made with any type of mushroom, but the most common type of mushroom used in mushroom soup is the button mushroom.
You can also make it with canned mushrooms, though it is often made with a mixture of both. Mushroom soup is a healthy dish that is low in calories and fat.
Did you know: Mushroom soup is also a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from diseases such as cancer.
16. Hazelnuts
Native to Europe, Asia, and North America, Hazelnuts are small, round nuts that have a smooth, brown exterior and a creamy white interior. They have a slightly sweet flavor with a hint of bitterness and are used mainly in coffee and drinks.
Did you Know: Hazelnuts are also known as cobnuts or filberts?
17. Brown Lentils
Native to India, brown lentils are small, light brown legumes that have a rich, nutty flavor. They are nutritious and versatile legumes that can be used in a variety of dishes.
Did you know: Brown lentils are also a good source of iron? Just 1/2 cup of cooked brown lentils provides 3 mg of this important mineral. That’s 17% of the daily value for iron.
18. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a thick, smooth paste made from ground peanuts. It has a rich, nutty flavor and a slightly oily texture. It is a popular spread for sandwiches and toast and is also used in many baking recipes. Peanut butter can be stored in the pantry, but it is best kept in the refrigerator to prevent it from becoming rancid.
Did you know: Peanut butter was first introduced at the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904? It was an instant hit!
19. Milk Coffee
A list of brown foods is incomplete without coffee in it. Milk Coffee is a delicious and creamy coffee drink that originates from Ethiopia and is made with coffee beans, milk, and sugar.
The coffee beans are roasted and then ground into a fine powder. This powder is then brewed with hot water to create a strong coffee concentrate. Milk and sugar are then added to this concentrate to create the final drink. It is also a popular choice for making iced coffee drinks.
Did You Know: The first recorded instance of milk coffee comes from 16th century India.
20. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice that comes from the inner bark of trees in the genus Cinnamomum. It has a warm, sweet, and woody flavor that is often used in baking. It’s sweet, warm flavor pairs well with baked goods, fruits, and even savory dishes.
Did You Know: Cinnamon is high in antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and even anti-diabetic properties.
21. Brown Dates
Native to the middle east, Brown dates are a type of date that is brown in color and have a sweet, chewy texture. They are often used in desserts and baking but can also be eaten on their own as a snack. If you want a healthy and delicious snack, brown dates are great as they’re high in fiber and antioxidants, making them good for your heart.
Did you know: Brown dates are actually a type of date palm? That’s right – these delicious, chewy fruits are actually related to the palm trees that grow in tropical climates!
22. Brown Eggs
Brown eggs are a type of chicken egg that is typically brown in color. They are generally larger than white eggs and have a slightly higher protein content. The flavor and texture of brown eggs are similar to that of white eggs and can be fried, scrambled, or used in baking just like their white-colored counterparts.
Brown eggs are a good source of protein, riboflavin, and selenium. They are also a good source of choline, which is important for brain health.
Did you know: According to a report by the USDA, brown eggs are actually no healthier than white eggs. The only difference is that brown eggs tend to cost more because they are in higher demand.
23. Soy Butter
Much like peanut butter, soy butter is a type of spread made from soybeans. It’s a popular alternative for those who are allergic to peanuts. You can use soy butter in the same way as peanut butter, such as on toast or in sandwiches.
Did you know: Soy butter is actually a type of vegetable oil?
24. Brown Raisins
Brown raisins are dried grapes that have been left in the sun to oxidize. This gives them their distinct brown color and slightly sweeter flavor and chewy texture.
They are a good source of fiber and iron and can be enjoyed on their own or used in baking. When baked into cookies or bread, brown raisins add a sweet and chewy flavor. You can also add them to oatmeal or yogurt for a healthy snack.
25. Flaxseeds
Native to Eurasia, Flaxseeds are the small, shiny seeds of the flax plant. They have a nutty flavor and a crunchy texture and are a good source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseeds also contain lignans, a type of phytonutrient that is shown to have cancer-protective properties.
They can be eaten whole, ground, or sprouted and are often added to cereals, yogurts, and baked goods.
Did you Know: Just one tablespoon of flaxseeds contains 3 grams of fiber, 2 grams of protein, and Omega-3 fatty acids.
26. Baked Beans
Baked beans are typically made from navy beans, although other types of beans can be used. The beans are cooked in a sauce made from molasses, sugar, and spices. This gives them their characteristic sweet and slightly smoky flavor.
27. Maple Syrup
Made from the sap of maple trees, maple syrup is a sweet, brown-colored liquid with a slightly woody flavor. It is a natural product with no artificial flavor or colors and is often used as a sweetener in baking or as a topping for pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast foods.
28. Brownies
Who doesn’t love a chocolate brownie? This dessert is beloved by kids and adults alike. And it’s not just because they’re delicious – brownies are also packed with antioxidants and fiber.
29. Pretzels
Pretzels are a type of bread that’s popular in Germany and other parts of Europe. Made with wheat flour and water, pretzels have a chewy texture and are often eaten with mustard or chocolate dip.
30. Caramel Corn
Caramel corn is a type of popcorn that is coated in a layer of caramel. It is usually made with brown sugar and butter, which gives it a sweet and rich flavor.
Did you know: The first recorded recipe for caramel corn appeared in a cookbook in 1885.
31. Yam
Not to be confused with sweet potatoes, yams are a type of starchy vegetable native to Africa. The word “yam” comes from the African word nyami, which means “to eat.”
Yam has brown skin and white flesh and is often used in pies and other desserts. When buying yams, look for ones that are firm and have no blemishes.
Did you know: Yams are a type of tuber? They’re similar to potatoes, but they have a sweeter taste and a higher moisture content.
32. Roasted Chicken
I know chicken is pink in color. But since roasting a chicken leads to a moist and juicy dish, with crisp and golden-brown skin. It makes sense to include roasted chicken in this list of brown foods.
33. Pumpernickel
Pumpernickel is a dark brown colored, dense, and slightly sweet german bread that is perfect for both sandwiches and toast. It has a chewy texture and a nutty flavor that makes it a favorite among many bread lovers. The bread is often baked in a loaf, but it can also be made into rolls.
34. Fudge
Made by heating sugar, butter, and milk or cream, Fudge is a popular brown-colored dessert with a smooth, creamy texture and sweet flavor. It is typically made into small squares or rectangles, but it can also be made into other shapes such as animals or flowers.
35. Caramel Pudding
Caramel pudding is a type of dessert that is made by combining milk, sugar, eggs, and flour. It can be served warm or cold and is often garnished with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or caramel sauce.
36. Almond Butter
Almond butter is a type of spread made from ground almonds and has a creamy texture and nutty flavor. It can be used in a variety of ways, such as a spread on toast or sandwiches, in baking recipes, or as a dip for fruit or vegetables.
37. Chocolate Cake
As its name suggests, chocolate cake is made using chocolate and is often frosted with chocolate icing. It is a popular choice for birthday cakes and other celebrations.
38. Hot Chocolate
One of the favorite wintertime brown food, hot chocolate is made by melting chocolate in milk. It can be either light and refreshing, or rich and decadent, depending on how it is made. It’s usually served with whipped cream or marshmallows.
39. Tea
Believed to have originated in China, Tea is a popular beverage enjoyed by people around the world. It is available in many different varieties, with each one having its own unique flavor. Black tea is the most common type of tea consumed in the world and is typically made with milk and sugar.
40. Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is a type of sugar that is brown in color and is made by adding molasses to white sugar. It has a sweet, rich flavor and a moist texture and is often used in baking recipes.
41. Waffles
Waffles are a popular breakfast food made with flour, milk, eggs, and baking powder. Usually served with butter and syrup, you can also add fruits, chocolate, or whipped cream to your waffle.
42. Lamb Rogan Josh
Lamb Rogan Josh has its origins in the Kashmir region of India, and it is typically made with lamb that has been marinated in a mixture of yogurt and spices. It is then cooked in a gravy made with tomatoes, onions, and a variety of Indian spices.
Since this delicious dish is unique and is brown in color, it makes sense to include it in this list of brown-colored foods.
43. Falafel Spiced Pecans
These Falafel Spiced Pecans are a delicious and healthy snack that is perfect for the on-the-go! They are high in protein and fiber and have a delicious falafel flavor that will leave you wanting more.
44. Molasses
Molasses is a dark brown, thick syrup that is a by-product of the sugar refining process. It has a strong, sweet flavor and is often used in baking or as a sweetener.
It can also be used to add flavor and depth to dishes such as stews, sauces, and marinades.
45. Molasses Cookies
Molasses cookies are a type of cookie that is made with molasses as the main ingredient. The cookies are usually soft and chewy, with a slightly sticky texture.
46. Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds come from the fenugreek plant, which is native to South Asia. The seeds have a strong, nutty flavor and are often used in Indian cuisine. Fenugreek seeds can be used whole or ground into a powder.
To use them, soak the seeds in water for a few hours before cooking. This will help to release their flavor. Fenugreek seeds can be used in curries, soups, and other dishes. When cooked, they will have a slightly bitter taste.
47. Toast
Toast is a quick snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Made by toasting any type of bread, and topped with various toppings such as cheese, ham, or even peanut butter, Toast is a versatile food that can be enjoyed in many different ways.
Whether you like your toast plain or fancy, it’s delicious and versatile food that everyone can enjoy. So next time you’re feeling hungry, try making yourself a delicious piece of toast!
48. Meatballs
Meatballs are a popular dish all over the world. They can be made from any type of ground meat, and are usually flavored with spices, herbs, and other ingredients. In addition to being a popular dish on their own, meatballs can also be used as an ingredient in other dishes, such as spaghetti and meatballs, or served as an appetizer.
One of the most popular ways to enjoy meatballs is in a spaghetti and meatball dish. The hearty combination of tender meatballs and rich tomato sauce is a classic that never gets old.
49. Turkey
Turkey is a lean, nutritious protein source that can be incorporated into a variety of recipes. It has a mild flavor that is slightly gamey, making it a versatile ingredient that can be paired with a variety of other flavors.
Turkey is typically roasted whole and served as a holiday meal, but it can also be cooked in other ways such as being grilled, braised, or stewed. Some popular dishes that include turkey are turkey pot pie, turkey tetrazzini, and turkey stuffing.
50. Coffee Beans
Ah! how could one forget to include coffee beans in the list of brown foods? Coffee beans are the seeds of the coffee plant, and they can be used to make a variety of different coffees. The taste of coffee beans varies depending on their variety and where they were grown.
Coffee beans are grown in a variety of different countries, including Brazil, Colombia, and Ethiopia. The flavor of coffee beans also depends on how they are roasted. Lightly roasted coffee beans have a more delicate flavor, while darkly roasted coffee beans have a richer, more intense flavor.
51. Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a type of legume that is often used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. They are a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals and can be eaten fresh, canned, or dried.
Chickpeas can also be found in a variety of dishes, such as hummus and falafel. Chickpeas can also be used in salads, soups, and stews.
Brown Food FAQs
What makes foods brown?
There are a few different things that can make foods brown in color. One is the presence of the phytochemical allicin that causes food to turn brown. Allicin is also responsible for the characteristic taste and smell of garlic.
Another is exposure to oxygen which can cause some foods to turn brown. When food is exposed to oxygen, the oxygen molecules interact with the food molecules and cause them to change color. This process is called oxidation. Heat can also cause foods to brown by speeding up the oxidation process.
Light can also contribute to browning, but this typically only happens when the food is exposed to sunlight or other intense light sources.
Enrich your diet by adding some of these brown foods to it. If you like this list of foods that are brown, do share it with your friends, family, and fans!
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