Soul Food

"Soul Food" This term originated from the cuisine developed by the African slaves mainly from the American South. A dark and despicable period in the history of the United States resulted in a cuisine fashioned from the meager ingredients available to the slave and sharecropper black families. The meat used was the least desireable cuts and the vegetables, some bordering on weeds, were all that was available for the black slaves to prepare nutritious meals for their families. From these meager ingredients evolved a cuisine that is simple yet hearty and delicious.

Given the history of African Americans in this country, family reunions and events are highly cherished to help maintain the African American culture. Elders of African American families are celebrated, as they are seen as passing on the African American legacy in this country. Elders provide great insight and wisdom into family and cultural history, giving guidance to younger family members.

The popularity of family reunions has grown over the past several years. After the civil rights movement, different aspects of society started to become more accessible to African Americans, allowing for better education, jobs, and economic advancements. This made it so it was no longer necessary for African Americans to stay in the same community as their family and elders, and allowed those in this culture to branch out to make a living.

Most people may not have known how Soul Food came about with great flavorful food such as collard greens, black eyed peas, cornbread, candied yams and the infamous macaroni & cheese just to name a few. Now that I have given you a brief history of where and how soul food originated among Southern African Americans, take the time and feel free to comment on your likes/dislikes of soul food or share a favorite recipe that you have tasted and enjoyed. Below you will find some of my prepared favorites for the holiday.