Black History Month & Soul Food
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The month of February is known as Black History Month, where we celebrate the many achievements that Black individuals have contributed to the world’s history and culture. Although many countries choose to celebrate it in other months of the year, the message remains the same: To give visibility to the people and organizations creating change.
Food is a universal love language, and it holds a special place in the Black community. It stems from a desire to feed people, spend time with family, and keep traditions alive. It is not only a form of love but a way to build and preserve culture.
This blog focuses on exploring the different ways that Black communities in America cook food, and we will be sharing a few key recipes along the way that celebrate and honor Black History Month.
Food as an Expression of CultureFood has become a source of memory, and this stems back hundreds of years to traditional preparation methods passed down from generations. Black parents ensure that their children and grandchildren learn the necessary skills and recipes to keep their favourite dishes in the family.
Right down to the serving, each family member has an important role in the kitchen.
Gumbo perfectly depicts how Southern cooking is a melting pot of culture and culinary heritage. The popularity of this Southern dish started when it was domesticated from West Africa in the 1500s, and has since become an integral part of Black cuisine.
Check out this rich, authentic, and incredibly delicious Chicken Shrimp and Okra Gumbo that will have your family asking you to cook it every Sunday night.
Soul Food: Made with Love
Throughout the years, many Black cultures have collided, resulting in beautiful culinary creations. Soul food is one of the most popular cuisines in the South, despite the variety of cuisines available. Soul food, as the name implies, is a dish prepared with a great deal of love and passion from the heart.
Across the globe, various Black communities indulge in soul food whether it has been passed down from their family members, or an integral part of their culture.
Buttermilk Fried Chicken is the epitome of classic comfort cuisine. This Southern dish has a long history, and it’s included in many Black cooks’ repertoires. There is nothing like it when it’s done right, and certainly, nothing like it when you see the amount of love that goes into it.
Check out this authentic, crisp and flavorful Buttermilk Fried Chicken recipe that will have you wanting to bring it to every potluck - ever.
Black Cooking Builds Community
Food is more than a science. It is a form of expression created by feelings. Cooking is a form of community building for Black people. As dinners and recipes are shared, every family member has an important role in the cooking process.
Our recollections of meals and recipes are etched in stone, passed down for generations and shared with those we love. These memories assist us in gaining the skills and speed necessary to make prep work and cooking a breeze.
While some argue whether andouille is of French or German origin, Cajun andouille is said to have originated when sausage makers combined their expertise with the specific culinary tastes of French and African forebears residing in Louisiana during the 18th century.
This spicy sausage was served with shrimp and grits, a Southern dish with roots in the Gullah Geechee people, descendants of West African communities. Since then, it has been passed down generations and enjoyed with the company of family and friends.
Check out this Andouille Sausage with Shrimp and Grits recipe that will have your tastebuds dancing with every bite.
A Message from FIKA
Beyond the month of February, Black achievement should be celebrated and recognized every day of the year. Black History Month isn't just about promoting diversity; it's also about celebrating it. We come together when we celebrate diversity and recognize its beauty. It enables us to have a better understanding of individuals from all cultures and origins, further bringing us together.
Cooking has the ability to bring communities together, and preserve culture. Each dish captures a certain story and can be retold with your own personal twist that is special to your family.
Are you looking for a perfect gift that can help you cook your family’s special recipes? Shop FIKA cookware.