4 Soul Food Dinner Ideas
What is Soul Food?
Soul food is a style of cooking originally associated with Black cuisine from the rural South, though it now applies to such cooking nationwide. While the term incorporates many tasty, filling comfort foods, a few have the most renown, including cornbread, collard greens and black-eyed peas.
The History of Soul Food
According to Britannica, the term “soul food” was first used in 1964 during the Civil Rights movement, when many aspects of Black culture were being celebrated for their contributions.1 The actual cuisine started about a century earlier, when many Black cooks who had been emancipated from slavery began to expand on their previous diets. They incorporated some aspects of American food into their own cooking, which originally relied heavily on their African heritage.¹
Soul food shouldn’t be confused with Southern food, which includes influences from European, Native American and African American dishes. Also, according to the Oxford African American Studies Center, the “soul” part of the soul food specifically incorporates the concepts of spirituality and family/ social ties in Black food culture.²
Soul Food Recipes
Ready to prepare a soul food dinner? Here are 4 tasty recipes to get you started.
Jerk Chicken
This sweet and savory recipe is made in a slow cooker but finishes under the broiler, so it gets crispy and lightly charred. Serve with plantains or mango salsa for a flavor-packed meal.
Southern-style Macaroni and Cheese
This cheese-filled favorite is the ultimate comfort food. Kids and adults are sure to dig into this creamy side dish.
Southern-style Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Red Beans and Rice
This easy recipe uses ingredients that may already be in your pantry or refrigerator for a spicy and satisfying meal.
Pressure Cooker Red Beans and Rice
Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
These Southern-style collard greens are a popular dish at many holiday tables. They’re easy to make and each bite is full of smoky flavor.
Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
Explore More
Want more meal inspiration? Check out our blog and explore our Easy Meal Solutions page.
Sources: