The ingredients of a dish are the individual food items and substances that are combined and prepared to create that specific culinary creation.1 They are the building blocks of the recipe.2Here's a breakdown of what constitutes ingredients:

Primary Food Items: These are the main components that define the dish. Examples include:

Proteins: Meat (beef, chicken, fish, pork), poultry, seafood, eggs, beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh.3
Vegetables: Carrots, broccoli, onions, tomatoes, potatoes, spinach, peppers, etc.
Grains: Rice, pasta, quinoa, couscous, bread.4
Fruits: Apples, bananas, berries (botanically speaking, a banana is a berry, and the "seeds" on a strawberry are the actual fruits), oranges, etc.
Dairy: Milk, cheese, yogurt, butter, cream.5

Flavorings and Seasonings: These enhance the taste of the primary ingredients. Examples include:

Spices: Cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves.
Herbs: Basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, cilantro, parsley.
Salt: A crucial flavor enhancer.6
Pepper: Black, white, or other varieties, adding a pungent note.7
Acids: Vinegar (various types), lemon juice, lime juice.8
Sweeteners: Sugar (granulated, brown, etc.), honey, maple syrup.
Sauces and Condiments (as ingredients): Soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, hot sauce (when used within the cooking process).

Liquids: These are often used for cooking or to create a sauce.9 Examples include:

Water: Essential for boiling, steaming, and many sauces.
Broth/Stock: Adds flavor and liquid (chicken, beef, vegetable).
Milk/Cream: Used in sauces, baking, and to add richness.
Wine: Used in some sauces and stews for flavor.10
Oils: Used for cooking (sautéing, frying, roasting) and in dressings.

Fats: Contribute to flavor, texture, and richness.11 Examples include:

Butter
Oils (as mentioned above)
Cream
Shortening

Things to note about ingredients:
Specificity: Recipes usually list ingredients with specific measurements (e.g., 1 cup of flour, 2 tablespoons of olive oil).
Preparation: Sometimes, the ingredient list will include a brief preparation instruction (e.g., 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced).
Optional Ingredients: Some recipes may list ingredients as optional, allowing for customization.12
Regional Variations: The ingredients in a dish can vary depending on regional availability and preferences.13
In essence, the ingredients are the complete list of everything you need to gather and use to successfully prepare a particular dish according to a recipe or your own culinary intentions.