25 Soulful Recipes From the African Diaspora to Celebrate Black History Month

Jocelyn Delk Adams
·7 min read

Jollof Rice

Every February, Black History Month is an opportunity to learn more about the heritage and contributions of Black people, and these Black History Month food recipes are a chance to truly honor Black culture food. There is a strong link between Black history and food, with many elements of African culinary history making their way into African American recipes and American food as a whole. So one great way to honor the contributions of Black culture throughout history is by exploring—and most of all making—foods from the Black diaspora.

Related: How To Talk To Your Kids About Black History Month—And 25 Ways To Honor It

Best Black History Month Food Recipes

So what is the African Diaspora? The African Diaspora includes cultures descended from Africa all over the world. These recipes from the African Diaspora include traditional African American recipes, also known as "soul food," as well as recipes and foods originating in Africa, the Caribbean and Latin America. So these Black History Month food recipes are an exploration of foods of the African Diaspora, and how African heritage has influenced Black history and food.

Related: Best Black-Owned Restaurants In Every State

What is Black Culture Food?

This collection includes so many great examples of Black food culture, including Creole Shrimp and Grits, Jamaican Rice and Peas, Brazilian Fish Stew, Kenyan Pilau Rice and Trinidad Chicken Pelau. And of course, you'll find some of the best soul food recipes like Collard Greens, Southern Baked Beans and Sweet Potato Pie. So many ways to celebrate!

Related: 40 Authentic Soul Food Recipes to Honor and Celebrate Black History Month

25 Black History Month Recipes

<p>Jerrelle Guy</p><p>This succulent Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp has zero bbq sauce and is instead braised in a white wine and garlic-butter sauce.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://parade.com/921855/parade/toni-tipton-martin-louisiana-barbecued-shrimp/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Louisiana Barbecued Shrimp</a></strong></p><p><strong>Related: <a href="https://parade.com/1379060/kristamarshall/grilled-shrimp-recipes/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:50 Best Grilled Shrimp Recipes;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">50 Best Grilled Shrimp Recipes</a></strong></p>
<p>Husk Charleston</p><p>Shrimp & Grits is meant to be an easy yet satisfying dish so it shouldn’t feel like a chore. Just have fun with it and make it your own by adding different toppings like a fried egg.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://parade.com/993068/kelli-acciardo/how-to-make-shrimp-and-grits/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Husk's Shrimp & Grits;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Husk's Shrimp & Grits</a></strong></p>
<p>Melissa Sperka</p><p>A Cajun twist on a Southern classic made with smoky bacon.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://parade.com/291934/melissasperka/southern-comfort-food-cajun-collard-greens-with-bacon/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Cajun Collard Greens;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Cajun Collard Greens</a> </strong></p>
<p>Antonis Achilleos</p><p>Sweet potatoes and dark red kidney beans combine with a flavorful peanutty broth in this stew.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="/1145181/alison-ashton/west-african-red-bean-and-sweet-potato-stew-recipe/" data-ylk="slk:West African Red Bean and Sweet Potato Stew;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">West African Red Bean and Sweet Potato Stew</a></strong></p>
<p>Grandbaby Cakes</p><p>This Jamaican Rice and Peas Recipe is the BEST quintessential and authentic Caribbean side with perfectly fluffed rice and delicious red beans with a hint of coconut flavor and spices galore.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://grandbaby-cakes.com/rice-and-peas/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Jamaican Rice and Peas Recipe;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Jamaican Rice and Peas Recipe</a></strong></p>
<p>Grandbaby Cakes</p><p>Jollof Rice Recipe is a true West African classic and here is my take on it! Fragrant rice is steeped in rich ingredients like meat stock, garlic, onions, tomatoes and spicy chilies adding an incredible depth of flavor.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://grandbaby-cakes.com/jollof-rice-recipe/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Jollof Rice Recipe;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Jollof Rice Recipe</a></strong></p>
<p>Grandbaby Cakes</p><p>These Fried Plantains are irresistible! Ripe sweet plantains are fried until golden brown with a caramelized texture and sweet flavor that melts in your mouth.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://grandbaby-cakes.com/fried-plantains/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Fried Plantains;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Fried Plantains</a></strong></p>
<p>Black People's Recipes</p><p>This Black Folks Shrimp and Grits recipe is made with fluffy, creamy stone-ground grits and served with Southern Creole seasoned gravy. Pair this soul food staple with any of your favorite seafood or shellfish.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://blackpeoplesrecipes.com/black-folks-shrimp-and-grits/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Black Folks Shrimp and Grits;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Black Folks Shrimp and Grits</a></strong></p><p><strong>Related: <a href="https://parade.com/1325505/parade/shrimp-recipes/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:111 Greatest Shrimp Recipes;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">111 Greatest Shrimp Recipes</a></strong></p>
<p>Black People's Recipes</p><p>This classic buttermilk pound cake is quintessential Southern comfort food. The perfect butter, sugar, eggs and flour ratio is pure heaven.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://blackpeoplesrecipes.com/buttermilk-pound-cake/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Buttermilk Pound Cake;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Buttermilk Pound Cake</a></strong></p>
<p>Grandbaby Cakes</p><p>Get ready for this perfect Chicken and Waffles Recipe. Imagine perfectly seasoned and crispy fried chicken on top of a fluffy, sweet and tender waffle!</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://grandbaby-cakes.com/chicken-and-waffles-recipe/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Homemade Chicken and Waffles Recipe;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Homemade Chicken and Waffles Recipe</a></strong></p>
<p>Food Fidelity</p><p>This Moqueca, AKA Brazilian fish stew is a rich, creamy curry-like fish stew made with shrimp that is perfect for a festive holiday dinner or a Sunday dinner change-up.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://www.foodfidelity.com/brazilian-fish-stew/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca Baiana);elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Brazilian Fish Stew (Moqueca Baiana)</a></strong></p>
<p>Black People's Recipes</p><p>Fried Plantain with Poulet DG (Director General) is a super flavorful African meal featuring fried plantains, chicken, and vegetables in a tasty herb sauce inspired by French cuisine. Fancy and delicious, this dish is traditionally reserved for special occasions.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://blackpeoplesrecipes.com/fried-plantains-with-vegetables/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Fried Plantains with Poulet DG;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Fried Plantains with Poulet DG</a></strong></p>
<p>This Bago Girl</p><p>The unofficial Trinidad national dish, Pelau. A hearty one-pot dish of caramelized chicken with rice and pigeon peas.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://www.homemadezagat.com/2016/04/trinidad-chicken-pelau.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Trinidad Chicken Pelau;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Trinidad Chicken Pelau</a></strong></p>
<p>Sense & Edibility</p><p>Sweet Potato Casserole with Coconut Pecan Topping is a beloved recipe in the African-American culture. This version gives the dish a nuttier, more tropical flavor in homage to the Afro-Caribbean. It's full of flavor with pumpkin pie spice, gluten-free and vegetarian. This recipe is also very freezer-friendly so it’s a great option for those busy holiday meals.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://senseandedibility.com/sweet-potato-casserole-with-coconut-pecan-topping/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Sweet Potato Casserole with Coconut Pecan Topping;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Sweet Potato Casserole with Coconut Pecan Topping</a></strong></p>
<p>My Pretty Brown Fit + Eats</p><p>These Southern Baked Beans are made with a whiskey maple BBQ sauce, ground beef made from plants, vegetables and delicious flavors. The perfect side dish for any occasion.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://www.myprettybrownfit.com/southern-baked-beans-made-from-plants/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Southern Baked Beans with (Plant-Based) Ground Beef;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Southern Baked Beans with (Plant-Based) Ground Beef</a></strong></p>
<p>Chenée Today</p><p>This is the best vegan coconut cake with a rich lime glaze! This egg-free and dairy-free coconut cake recipe is a deliciously easy celebration dessert that everyone will love!</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://cheneetoday.com/vegan-coconut-cake/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Vegan Coconut Cake with Lime Glaze;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Vegan Coconut Cake with Lime Glaze</a></strong></p>
<p>We Eat At Last</p><p>This flavorful, fluffy and fragrant Swahili Pilau Rice is a must-try! This meal is naturally gluten-free and can be made ahead. Pair it up with some salad for a complete meal.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://www.paleolowcarbkate.com/swahili-kenyan-pilau-rice/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Swahili Kenyan Pilau Rice;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Swahili Kenyan Pilau Rice</a></strong></p>
<p>Britney Breaks Bread</p><p>Peanut Curry Braised Ribs is a delicious recipe that you will never forget! These braised ribs are so good, you'll be making them over and over again!</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://britneybreaksbread.com/peanut-curry-braised-ribs/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Peanut Curry Braised Ribs;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Peanut Curry Braised Ribs</a></strong></p><p><strong>Related: <a href="https://parade.com/1309280/lisamarcaurele-2/keto-curry-recipes/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:44 Keto-Friendly Curry Recipes;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">44 Keto-Friendly Curry Recipes</a></strong></p>
<p>Jamieson Diaries</p><p>This delicious meal is full of the special flavors that make Belize so unique. From the onion sauce to the textures, it’s the perfect flavor clash you never knew you needed.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://www.jamiesondiaries.com/belizean-garnaches/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Belizean Garnaches;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Belizean Garnaches</a></strong></p><p><strong>Related: <a href="https://www.i929fm.com/lifestyle/42-easy-mexican-crock-pot-224705152.html" data-ylk="slk:40 Crock Pot Mexican Recipes;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link yahoo-link">40 Crock Pot Mexican Recipes</a></strong></p>
<p>Nkechi Ajaeroh</p><p>Insanely delicious party-style Basmati Jollof Rice is the perfect side dish for any occasion. The fusion of basmati rice with tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, curry, thyme, bay leaves and other herbs/spices makes this party Jollof absolutely flavorful and tasty! The best part about making Basmati Jollof Rice is that it takes no time to cook.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://nkechiajaeroh.com/recipes/nigerian-food/nigerian-basmati-jollof-rice-recipe/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Party-Style Nigerian Basmati Jollof Rice;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Party-Style Nigerian Basmati Jollof Rice</a></strong></p>
<p>Good Food Baddie</p><p>Crispy Air Fryer Okra is a healthier way to make crunchy southern fried okra without the excessive amount of oil. The flavorful crunchy coating is made with cornmeal, seasonings and gluten-free flour. This crispy okra recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free and incredibly delicious! </p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://goodfoodbaddie.com/crispy-air-fryer-okra/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Crispy Air Fryer Okra;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Crispy Air Fryer Okra</a></strong></p>
<p>Sim's Home Kitchen</p><p>This easy Nigerian meat pie recipe will have your family and friends coming back for more! Learn how to make meat pie dough soft and fill each pie with a homemade delicious savory minced beef, carrot and potato filling. Serve meat pie as a snack or appetizer.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://simshomekitchen.com/nigerian-meat-pie-recipe/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Nigerian Meat Pie Recipe;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Nigerian Meat Pie Recipe</a></strong></p>
<p>Mochas and Mimosas</p><p>Caribbean Pumpkin Fritters. Sweet, tender and crispy pumpkin fritters make a delicious breakfast, dessert or snack.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://mochasandmimosas.com/pumpkin-fritters-recipe/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Pumpkin Fritters Recipe;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Pumpkin Fritters Recipe</a></strong></p>
<p>My Diaspora Kitchen</p><p>This is an easy, tasty pasta recipe with a nice twist. Nigerian-style Jollof Spaghetti with Kale makes for a great side dish—and it's so delicious.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://www.mydiasporakitchen.com/kale-jollof-spaghetti-n-meatballs/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Kale Jollof Spaghetti and Meatballs;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Kale Jollof Spaghetti and Meatballs</a></strong></p>
<p>The Vgn Way</p><p>Southern Sweet Potato Bread, a classic old-fashioned quick bread loaf with a twist, topped with a cinnamon and spice streusel topping. A moist, tender homemade quick bread that’s gluten-free and vegan.</p><p><strong>Get the recipe: <a href="https://www.thevgnway.com/orange-cardamon-sweet-potato-bread-2/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Easy Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Quick Bread (Southern Style);elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Easy Gluten-Free Sweet Potato Quick Bread (Southern Style)</a></strong></p><p><strong>Related: <a href="https://parade.com/845903/brianneizzo/15-of-the-best-sweet-potato-recipes-for-delicious-holiday-side-dishes/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:50 Best Sweet Potato Recipes;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">50 Best Sweet Potato Recipes</a></strong></p>

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