20 Soul Food Recipes to Celebrate Black History Month
Last Updated on February 5, 2026 by Barbara
February is Black History Month. A time to celebrate the incredible contributions and perseverance of Black Americans throughout the history of our country. As we honor the resilience, achievements, and lasting impacts of Black leaders, innovators, and trailblazers, it’s also the perfect time to recognize the rich culinary traditions that have influenced American food culture.
Soul Food is more than just delicious. It carries stories of history, heritage, creativity and community. In this post, I am share 20 must-try Black History Month food ideas that highlight the depth and diversity of Black food culture. Let’s celebrate Black history, Black culture, and the amazing flavors that bring people together.
Black History Month Food Ideas and Recipes
1. Collard Greens
It’s not a soul food menu if it doesn’t feature Collard Greens. Collard greens are full of flavor and often cooked with smoked meats and bold seasonings. They are great alone or you can prepare Mixed Greens by adding kale, mustard greens or turnip greens.
2. Black-eyed Peas
Black-eyed Peas is a soul food dish traditionally eaten on New Year’s Day to bring good luck and prosperity. Made with smoked meat and seasoned broth, it’s a tradition, that can enjoyed any day of the year!
3. Dirty Rice
If you want a little spice and a lot of flavor in your life then my Dirty Rice is what you are looking for. Made with parboiled rice, beef, pork and a blend of seasonings, this recipe won’t disappoint.
4. Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet Potato Pie, is a soul food classic dessert made with sweet potatoes, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then baked in a buttery crust. Some compare it to pumpkin pie, but sweet potato pie is often preferred in the Black American community. When it comes to the holidays or any given Sunday, no soul food dessert table is complete without a Sweet potato pie.
5. Fried Chicken
Crispy Fried Chicken is a great addition to any soul food plate. This delightfully crispy soul food staple has a flavor dependent on the blend of spices and seasoning you choose to use. Don’t be afraid to experiment and see what you come up with!
6. Tea Cakes
Tea cakes have been enjoyed for many generations. When I think of tea cakes, I am reminded of the resilience and creativity that exists in the Black community. Originating during the time when slaves had to make do with what was given to them, these simple yet delicious cookies became a source of comfort and tradition.
7. Mac and Cheese
Baked Mac and cheese is one of my all-time favorite dishes. My recipe is full of creamy cheese and baked to perfection. You will love this recipe made with 6 different cheeses that perfectly compliment each other. It is sure to make you the star of your next potluck!
8. Candied Yams
Southern Candied Yams have become a quintessential soul food side dish. They add a sweet element to every soul food plate. Made with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and other complimentary spices they are great for every meal.
9. Peach Cobbler
My homemade peach cobbler recipe is my dessert of choice. It’s usually the first to disappear from the dessert table. Nothing tastes better than warm peach cobbler with a side of vanilla ice cream. Oh so good!
10. Gumbo
Gumbo is a tradition in many homes. There are so many variations to gumbo and they are all equally as delicious. Whether you try my seafood gumbo or my chicken and sausage gumbo you will love this taste of soulful Louisiana cuisine.
11. Cornbread
This cornbread recipe is easy to follow and makes the best cornbread you will ever have. It is prepared in a cast iron skillet then baked in the oven to perfection.
12. Shrimp and Grits
Who doesn’t love Shrimp and Grits. They are a Cajun treat that can be served for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The combination of the tender shrimp in a spicy Cajun sauce, served over cheesy grits, is always a crowd pleaser.
13. Classic Banana Pudding
My Banana pudding recipe is another classic soul food dessert. This recipe is made with homemade pudding, vanilla wafers and sweet fresh bananas. If you are looking for a budget friendly crowd pleasing recipe this one is for you!
14. Southern Fried Cabbage
Fried cabbage is a delicious side dish that pairs well with almost anything. Similar to greens, they are often made with smoked meats and cooked until they are tender and flavorful.
15. Oxtails
Oxtails, once considered to be an inexpensive cut of meat, are now a delicacy enjoyed by many. they are slow cooked and fall-off-the-bone good!
16. Southern Fried Catfish Nuggets
Southern fried catfish is another soul food staple. These fried catfish nuggets are perfectly battered and fried to give you bite sized pieces of deliciousness!
17. Red Beans and Rice
Red Beans and Rice is a classic Louisiana dish made with red beans, smoked sausage, and spices, and served with white rice. Red beans and rice was originally made with leftover ham bones but has evolved over many generations. This soul food comfort dish is widely known for its savory flavor.
18. Jambalaya
If you are looking for a taste of Louisiana then you need to try my Jambalaya recipe. It is a Louisiana one pot dish that is full of wonderfully blended flavors and spices. Made with a combination of shrimp and smoked sausage, this staple of Cajun cooking is sure to satisfy.
19. Smothered Chicken
Nothing provides comfort like Smothered Chicken. It is a soulful love at its culinary best. Made by browning chicken then simmering in a rich brown gravy, This soul food classic will leave your family smiling!
20. 7-Up Pound Cake
If you are looking for the perfect old school pound cake recipe then you must try my 7UP pound cake. It’s a rich, buttery Southern dessert that gets its signature texture and subtle citrus flavor from 7UP soda. Baked to golden perfection with a soft, moist crumb, this classic cake has become a favorite served at many family gatherings and celebrations.
Black History Month
What is Black History Month?
Black History Month is a time to recognize, honor, and celebrate the incredible contributions Black Americans have made to the United States. It’s a month dedicated to highlighting the achievements, history, and cultural impact of Black individuals, from trailblazers in civil rights to pioneers in science, arts, sports, and beyond. So Black History Month is much more than just a history lesson, it’s an opportunity to reflect on the resilience, creativity, and influence of Black Americans throughout the country’s past and present.
When is Black History Month?
In 1926, Carter G. Woodson ignited a passion for recognizing Black Americans contributions to the nation by launching Negro History Week. He championed integrating their achievements into public school curricula, understanding that this knowledge was vital for all Americans. Celebrated in the second week of February, Negro History Week thrived for decades before evolving into Black History Month. In 1976, President Gerald Ford officially declared February as Black History Month, solidifying its national significance.
