This list includes 11 Appetizers that start with U, from “Ukoy” to “Uttapam”. They range from crispy fritters to savory pancakes and small bites from global cuisines. Use them for parties, weeknight starters, or appetizer-focused menus.

Appetizers are small savory starters served before a main course to stimulate the appetite. A notable example is Filipino ukoy, a shrimp-and-vegetable fritter that shows how local ingredients define regional starters.

Below you’ll find the table with the columns: Appetizer; Primary ingredients; Serving size & calories; Region/Notes; Recipe link.

Appetizer: The appetizer name lets you quickly find items and choose bites that fit your menu or occasion.

Primary ingredients: Lists the main two to four components so you can judge flavor, dietary needs, and shopping requirements.

Serving size & calories: Gives a typical serving and rounded calories per serving so you can plan portions and nutrition.

Region/Notes: Shows origin, common variations, or quick notes to help you choose dishes matching taste or context.

Recipe link: Directs you to a full recipe when available so you can make the appetizer at home or adapt it.

Appetizers that start with U

NameOrigin/RegionPrimary ingredientsServing & Calories
UniJapansea urchin roe, salt, sometimes soy1 piece (15 g) — 40 kcal
Unagi (grilled eel)Japanfreshwater eel, kabayaki sauce, rice1 nigiri (35 g) — 120 kcal
UttapamSouth Indiarice batter, urad dal, onion, tomato1 small pancake (120 g) — 220 kcal
UpmaSouth Indiasemolina (rava), ghee/oil, mustard seeds, vegetables1 cup (200 g) — 220 kcal
Urad vadaIndiaurad dal (black gram), onion, cumin1 vada (30 g) — 150 kcal
UkoyPhilippinesshrimp, sweet potato/batter, garlic1 fritter (60 g) — 160 kcal
UrapIndonesiashredded coconut, mixed vegetables, kaffir lime1 cup (120 g) — 160 kcal
UrnebesSerbiasheep/goat cheese, paprika, chili1 tbsp (15 g) — 60 kcal
UmeboshiJapanpickled plum, salt, shiso leaf1 fruit (20 g) — 20 kcal
Umibudo (sea grapes)Okinawa/Japansea grapes (green caviar), salt water1 cup (50 g) — 20 kcal
UlamMalaysiaraw vegetables/herbs, sambal or dippings1 cup (50 g) — 30 kcal

Descriptions

Uni
Creamy, briny sea urchin roe often served as sushi or on toast; prized for its rich, oceanic umami in small, savory bites.
Unagi (grilled eel)
Sweet-savory grilled eel glazed with soy-based sauce, commonly served as nigiri or small skewers — smoky, rich, and a classic starter-sized bite.
Uttapam
Thick, savory South Indian pancake topped with onions and tomatoes; soft inside and slightly crisp at the edges, great as a shared appetizer.
Upma
A savory, spiced semolina porridge studded with mustard seeds and veggies; served warm in small portions as a snack or starter.
Urad vada
Crispy, doughnut-shaped fritter made from ground urad dal; crunchy outside and fluffy inside, commonly offered as a tea-time snack or appetizer.
Ukoy
Crispy Filipino shrimp and vegetable fritters served with vinegar dip — a crunchy, savory finger food perfect for parties.
Urap
Balinese-style vegetable salad tossed with spiced grated coconut; bright, aromatic, and served in small portions as an appetizer or side.
Urnebes
Spicy, tangy cheese spread with smoked paprika and peppers — commonly served with bread or as a meze appetizer.
Umeboshi
intensely salty-sour pickled plums often served as a small palate-cleansing bite or with rice; strong flavor in tiny servings.
Umibudo (sea grapes)
Delicate, popping seaweed “grapes” eaten fresh with soy or vinegar; a refreshing, briny bite often served as an appetizer or side.
Ulam
Malay raw-vegetable platter (ulam) eaten with spicy sambal or condiments; crisp, fresh, and commonly served as a starter or accompaniment.
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