17 Mexican Foods that Start with J – That Start With Recipes

Mexico food is renowned. In this article, we’ll look at Mexican fruits, vegetables, dishes, and drinks whose names begin with the letter J.

From jalapeños to jitomates to jochos, there are plenty of Mexican foods that start with J.

Mexican food is some of the most varied and tasty in the world. If you’re looking for somewhere to start, here are foods from Mexico that start with J.

Mexican Foods that Start with J

1. Jalapeño

Jalapeños are a spicy and flavorful chili pepper that are commonly used in Mexican cuisine. These small, green peppers are known for their heat, but they are also a healthy addition to any meal. Jalapeños are low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium. They are also packed with antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. When cooking with jalapenos, it’s important to handle them with care as the oils in the peppers can irritate the skin and eyes. I recommend removing the seeds and membranes to reduce their heat level.

2. Jicama

Jicama is a root vegetable that is popular in Mexican cuisine. Also known as yam bean, Mexican turnip, and Mexican potato, jicama has a crunchy texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor. It is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, making it a healthy addition to any diet. Jicama can be eaten raw or cooked and is often used in salads, salsas, and slaws. To prepare jicama, simply peel off the tough outer skin with a knife or vegetable peeler, and then slice or dice it as desired. Jicama is also a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet, as it is relatively low in carbohydrates.

3. Jericallas

Jericallas are a delightful Mexican custard dessert that will captivate your taste buds with their creamy goodness. These individual-sized custards are made by combining ingredients such as eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, and sometimes a touch of cinnamon. The mixture is then baked until it forms a golden-brown crust on top and a smooth and velvety texture inside. Jericallas are a popular dessert in the state of Jalisco, where they are often served with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

4. Jocoque

Jocoque is a Mexican dairy product based on fermented milk, which has origins influenced by Lebanese cuisine. This versatile food product can be consumed by those who are lactose intolerant, as the fermentation process reduces lactose content, making it easier to digest. I find that the creamy and tangy taste of Jocoque adds a unique flavor to many Mexican dishes. It is typically used as a base for dips, sauces, and dressings, or as a spread for bread and crackers. In some regions, it is also used as a stuffing for traditional dishes like gorditas, which are thick corn tortillas filled with various ingredients.

5. Jumiles

Jumiles are edible insects native to Mexico, and have been a part of the country’s culinary heritage since pre-Columbian times. They belong to the Hemiptera order, and are also known as chinche de monte, xumil, or xotlinilli. Known for their unique and strong flavor, jumiles are often used in traditional Mexican dishes. They can be eaten raw, or cooked in a variety of ways, such as being roasted, fried, or ground into a paste. Besides their taste, jumiles are also valued for their potential health benefits, as they are a good source of protein and nutrients.

6. Jamoncillos

Jamoncillos are a traditional Mexican dessert crafted from caramelized milk and sugar, which creates a soft, fudgy texture and light brown color. Known by various names such as jamoncillo de leche, leche quemada, and dulce de leche candy, this sweet treat is a popular indulgence in many regions of Mexico. There are several variations of jamoncillos, which include the addition of different nuts and flavorings.

7. Jarritos

Jarritos is a popular brand of fruit-flavored sodas from Mexico. Established in 1950, the brand takes pride in using natural fruit flavors and traditional Mexican ingredients in their carbonated soft drinks. With a variety of flavors to choose from, Jarritos caters to different taste preferences. One of the key aspects of Jarritos that makes it unique is the use of natural sugar cane, unlike many other soft drinks that use high fructose corn syrup. Some popular Jarritos flavors include tamarind, mango, guava, pineapple, and lime.

8. Jocote

Jocote is a fruit native to southern Mexico and Central America that is creamy when ripe and tastes like a blend of a plum and a mango, with a hint of granny apple. Even a green jocote can occasionally be ripe, so squeeze it with your fingers. The sweeter the flavors, the softer the fruit. Jocotes are usually eaten raw, but you can also dry them or boil them to use them in other dishes. Jocotes were used for food and medicinal purposes by people in Central America thousands of years ago. The tree’s gum was used as glue and combined with sapote or pineapple to make a jaundice treatment.

Related: 38 Popular Mexican Fruits

9. Jitomate

Jitomate, also known as tomato, is a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine. It is believed that the domestication of this fruit happened in Mexico, and it has been used in it’s cuisine for centuries. The word jitomate comes from the Nahuatl word “xīctomatl,” which means “fruit with navel.” Jitomate is used in a variety of Mexican dishes, such as salsas, tacos, and soups. It is also used as a garnish and a topping for meat and cheese dishes.

10. Jaiba

Jaiba is a Spanish word that translates to “crab” in English. In Mexican cuisine, Jaiba is often used to prepare a delicious crab salad dish known as Jaiba Ceviche. This dish is a popular appetizer that is perfect for the summer season. To make Jaiba Ceviche, lime juice, lemon juice, tomatoes, chopped onion, cilantro, and jalapeno pepper are mixed together. Crab meat is then added to the mixture and seasoned with salt and pepper to taste. The mixture is then transferred to the refrigerator and left to marinate for 30-60 minutes.

11. Jochos

Jochos are a popular Mexican street food that is essentially a hot dog with a Mexican twist. The dish is made by placing a sausage in a soft tortilla and topping it with a variety of delicious toppings. Jochos are a favorite among locals and tourists alike due to their unique flavor and portability. The sausage used in Jochos is typically a spicy chorizo, which adds a delicious kick to the dish. The tortilla used is also an important part of the dish, as it is soft and pliable, making it easy to wrap around the sausage and toppings. Other toppings commonly used in Jochos include refried beans, cheese, lime, and a variety of salsas and sauces.

12. Jurel

Jurel, also known as yellowtail amberjack, is a type of fish commonly used in Mexican cuisine. It is a delicious and flavorful fish that is often marinated and grilled or used in ceviche. In Mexican cuisine, jurel is often prepared with a variety of herbs and spices, such as garlic, cumin, and chili powder. It is then marinated in lime juice and grilled to perfection. The result is a tender and flavorful fish that is perfect for tacos, tostadas, or eaten on its own. Jurel is a popular fish in Mexican cuisine due to its versatility and delicious taste.

13. Jobo

Jobo is a sweet and delicious fruit that is native to Mexico and other parts of Central and South America. It is a popular ingredient in Mexican cuisine, where it is often used in desserts and other sweet dishes. Jobo is also known as the “yellow mombin” or “hog plum.” The fruit has a unique flavor that is both sweet and tart, with a texture that is similar to a mango. It is often used to make jams, jellies, and other sweet treats. In addition to its use in desserts, jobo is also used in savory dishes, like stews and sauces.

14. Jengibre

Jengibre, also known as ginger in English, is a popular ingredient in Mexican cuisine. It is a root spice that has a slightly sweet and spicy flavor, making it a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Ginger is known for its health benefits, including its ability to aid digestion and reduce inflammation. In Mexican cuisine, ginger is commonly used in beverages such as tea and horchata. It is also used in marinades for meats and seafood, as well as in sauces and dressings for salads.

15. Jaca Fruit

Jaca Fruit, also known as Jackfruit in English, is a tropical fruit native to Mexico and other Southeast Asian countries. It is a large, green, spiky fruit that can weigh up to 80 pounds. Jaca Fruit is a popular ingredient in Mexican cuisine, especially in the southern regions of the country. Jaca Fruit has a sweet and delicious flavor that is often compared to a combination of pineapple, mango, and banana. It is a versatile fruit that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. In Mexican cuisine, it is often used in desserts, such as ice cream and flan, as well as in savory dishes, such as stews and tacos.

16. Jabalí Mezcal

Jabalí Mezcal is a type of mezcal that is made from the Jabalí agave plant, which is known for its spiky, curved leaves that resemble a wild boar’s fur. Jabalí Mezcal is a bold and flavorful spirit that is becoming increasingly popular among tequila and mezcal enthusiasts. It has a distinct smoky flavor with notes of citrus and a hint of sweetness. Jabalí Mezcal is produced in the state of Jalisco, which is known for its rich culinary traditions and vibrant food scene.

17. Agua de Jamaica

Agua de Jamaica is a popular Mexican drink made from hibiscus flowers. The drink has a tart and sweet flavor and is often served over ice. It is a popular alternative to soft drinks and is also used as a base for cocktails. Jamaica is also commonly added to salsas for a tart and tangy kick, and its juice is often used in marinades for meats. The flavor pairs well with lime juice and is a popular addition to slaws and salads.

A History of Mexican Food

Mexican cuisine is a delicious fusion of indigenous and Spanish flavors. The Aztecs invented the tortilla, and used it as a wrap for other foods. Corn, squash, chile peppers, and beans have been staples of the Mexican diet since pre-Columbian times.

In addition to these key ingredients, Mexican cuisine incorporates a variety of native American ingredients, such as meat, cheese, tomatoes, avocados, potatoes, prickly pear cactus, chocolate, and turkey. The majority of dishes also include rice and spices which were introduced by Spanish conquistadors.

In 1521, Spain invaded Mexico. Spanish cuisine had the greatest influence on Mexican cuisine. They brought new livestock, such as sheep, pigs, and cows. They also brought dairy products, garlic, and a variety of herbs, grains, and spices.

Mexican Food FAQs

What Is Mexican Cuisine?

Traditional meals and staple ingredients in Mexico include rice, corn, sauces, and white cheese. Each region in Mexico has its own distinct ingredients and dishes that have contributed to Mexican food’s popularity worldwide. Avocados, beans, chiles, tomatoes, and meats are also typical ingredients found in many authentic Mexican recipes.

What is Tex-Mex cuisine?

Tex-Mex cuisine (from the words Texas and Mexico) is an American cuisine that originated with the Tejano people of Texas. In addition to flour tortillas, Tex-Mex cuisine is distinguished by its heavy use of yellow shredded cheese, beans, meat, chili peppers, and spices.

Many “Mexican” dishes you grew up eating aren’t technically Mexican. Fajitas, chili, nachos, burritos are all cornerstones of Tex-Mex cuisine.

Various Tex-Mex dishes are sometimes prepared without the use of a tortilla. The “fajita bowl,” which is a fajita served without a soft tortilla, is an example of this. In general, cheese plays a much larger role in Tex-Mex cuisine as well.

The Roundup

I hope you enjoyed this roundup of Mexican foods that start with the letter J. From jalapenos to jicama, there are so many delicious options to choose from.

And, if you’re looking for even more Mexican food inspiration, be sure to check out 17 Mexican Foods That Start With I.