Ingredients are the individual components used in cooking or baking to create a dish or meal. They can be fresh, dried, or processed and include items like vegetables, fruits, grains, meats, spices, herbs, oils, and dairy products. Each ingredient contributes its own flavor, texture, and nutritional value, playing a key role in the final taste and appearance of the dish. Understanding how different ingredients interact and complement each other is essential in crafting balanced, flavorful meals. Quality and freshness of ingredients often directly impact the success of a recipe.