A dietary staple refers to a food that is an essential and regular part of someone's diet, providing them with important nutrients and energy. These types of food are typically inexpensive, readily available, and can be easily incorporated into various meals or eaten on their own. Examples of dietary staples include grains like rice or bread, legumes such as lentils or beans, vegetables like potatoes or carrots, and animal products like meat or dairy. In different cultures around the world, there are various foods that serve as dietary staples based on their availability and cultural traditions.