Ingrediente

An ingrediente is a component used in the preparation of a dish, drink, medicine, cosmetic product, or industrial formulation. In culinary contexts, ingredients are combined according to a recipe to create a final product and can include foods, liquids, seasonings, and additives. They may be raw or processed, fresh or dried, and may have supporting or primary roles in a recipe.

Etymology and usage: The term derives from Latin ingrediens, meaning “entering” or “going in,” and is cognate with the English word ingredient. In many Romance languages, including Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, ingrediente (or ingrediente) functions as the standard term for a recipe component.

Culinary context: A recipe lists ingredients with quantities, preparation notes, and the order of addition. Main ingredients provide the core structure or flavor, while seasonings, spices, and enhancers refine the final taste. The choice and quality of ingredients—freshness, sourcing, and storage—significantly affect texture and aroma.

Other domains: In pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and industrial products, ingredients denote the substances that compose a formulation, such as active ingredients, carriers, solvents, and fragrances. Labeling requirements mandate disclosure of ingredients, including allergen information and concentrations where relevant.

Substitutions and safety: When an ingrediente is unavailable, substitutes may be used, balancing flavor, texture, and compatibility. Dietaries, allergies, and regulatory restrictions may require careful selection or avoidance of certain ingredients.

See also: recipe, ingredient list, formulation.