When it comes to comfort food, there’s no better place to look than the rich culinary traditions of Southern America. Soul food has a way of warming our hearts and filling our bellies with its hearty, homestyle dishes that never fail to bring people together. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey back in time to revisit some classic soul food recipes that have been passed down through generations.
From crispy fried chicken and slow-cooked collard greens to creamy mac and cheese and fluffy biscuits, these old school soul food recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household. And with their rich history and cultural significance, it’s no wonder why they continue to be a staple of Southern cuisine today. So grab a plate, gather ’round the table, and get ready to indulge in some good ol’ fashioned comfort food that’ll make you feel like you’re sittin’ down for Sunday dinner at your grandma’s house.
Southern Fried Chicken with Crispy Coating
This classic Southern dish is a staple of comfort food at its finest, featuring crispy fried chicken smothered in a tangy coating. With just the right balance of spices and herbs, this recipe will transport you to the heart of Dixie.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each chicken piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat. Place coated chicken on a plate or tray.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry chicken pieces in batches for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove fried chicken from the oil with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Collard Greens Simmered with Smoked Turkey
Get ready to taste the rich flavors of Southern comfort food! This simple recipe combines smoky turkey with tender collard greens for a hearty and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked turkey breast, diced
– 2 cups fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the collard greens, diced turkey, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until greens are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mac and Cheese with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce
This comforting classic gets a rich and creamy upgrade with the addition of three cheeses: sharp cheddar, tangy Parmesan, and smooth Gruyère. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Buttery Cornbread with a Golden Crust
Moist and flavorful cornbread gets a boost from a golden-brown crust infused with buttery goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
– 2 large eggs
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, cornmeal, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, buttermilk, and eggs. Add honey or sugar if desired.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients. Pour into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Slow-Cooked Black-Eyed Peas with Ham Hocks
Slow-Cooked Black-Eyed Peas with Ham Hocks Recipe
Elevate your Southern comfort food game with this hearty and flavorful recipe that combines the creamy sweetness of black-eyed peas with the rich, smoky flavor of ham hocks.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
– 2 ham hocks
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Rinse the black-eyed peas and pick out any debris or stones.
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine the ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the black-eyed peas, chicken broth, and brown sugar to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
5. Serve the peas with the ham hocks and spoon off any excess fat.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Smothered Pork Chops in Rich Gravy
Smothered Pork Chops in Rich Gravy Recipe
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening, these smothered pork chops are cooked to tender perfection and smothered in a rich, savory gravy.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless pork chops
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Dredge pork chops in the mixture, shaking off excess.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add pork chops and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
- Transfer pork chops to a baking dish. Top with sliced onions and minced garlic.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until pork is cooked through. Meanwhile, deglaze skillet with beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add heavy cream and stir until combined. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until gravy thickens.
Cooking Time:
Total cooking time: approximately 45-50 minutes.
Classic Candied Yams with Brown Sugar Glaze
Classic Candied Yams with Brown Sugar Glaze
Sweet and tender yams smothered in a rich brown sugar glaze make this side dish a holiday staple. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously sweet and savory treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large yams or sweet potatoes
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub and pierce the yams with a fork several times.
3. Bake the yams for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced.
4. In a small saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Remove the yams from the oven and brush with the glaze. Serve warm, garnished with thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Fried Catfish with Spicy Cornmeal Batter
Get ready to sink your teeth into crispy, spicy catfish with a crunchy cornmeal batter. This Southern-inspired recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (about 1 pound)
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate large bowl.
3. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the cornmeal mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the catfish for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Red Beans and Rice with Andouille Sausage
A classic Louisiana dish that combines the flavors of tender red beans, savory Andouille sausage, and creamy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 pound smoked Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the soaked red beans, chicken broth, and browned sausage back to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
6. Serve over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Homemade Biscuits Fluffy and Buttery
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with these tender, flaky biscuits that are surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some gentle mixing, you’ll be enjoying warm, buttery goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream or whole milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in heavy cream or milk and stir gently until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead briefly until smooth.
6. Roll out dough to about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a biscuit cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each biscuit.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chitterlings Cleaned and Seasoned to Perfection
This classic Southern recipe showcases the rich flavor of chitterlings, also known as fried pork intestines, when properly cleaned and seasoned. With this simple yet flavorful preparation, you’ll be enjoying a mouthwatering side dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chitterlings (frozen or fresh)
– 2 tablespoons white vinegar
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chitterlings under cold running water, removing any excess debris.
2. In a large bowl, combine the vinegar, water, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Add the chitterlings and let them soak for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Drain and rinse the chitterlings again under cold running water.
4. Heat about 1/4 inch of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
5. Fry the chitterlings in batches, if necessary, until they are golden brown and crispy (about 3-4 minutes per batch).
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total (soaking time included)
Peach Cobbler with Flaky Pie Crust Topping
This classic dessert is a perfect way to enjoy the sweet and juicy flavor of peaches, topped with a crispy and flaky pie crust. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this mouthwatering treat for your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 pie crust dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out the pie crust dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (0.3 cm). Place over the peach mixture.
4. Fold edges of the crust up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush egg wash over the crust.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and peaches are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Okra Stewed with Tomatoes and Onions
Okra Stewed with Tomatoes and Onions Recipe
A classic Southern-inspired dish that combines the unique flavor of okra with the sweetness of tomatoes and onions.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup fresh or frozen okra, sliced
• 2 medium tomatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced okra, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the okra is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
This hearty stew is perfect as a side dish or used as a base for other recipes. Enjoy!
Southern-Style Meatloaf with Tangy Glaze
Classic comfort food gets a boost from this rich and tangy meatloaf recipe, featuring ground beef, pork, and a sweet-and-sour glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef and pork, breaking up with your hands until just combined.
3. Add breadcrumbs, milk, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper; mix until just combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Meanwhile, combine ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl.
7. During the last 10 minutes of baking, brush glaze over the meatloaf.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet Tea-Brined Fried Chicken Wings
Sweet Tea-Brined Fried Chicken Wings Recipe
Get ready to swoon with this sweet and savory take on classic fried chicken wings, infused with the deep flavors of sweet tea.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup sweet tea (brewed strong)
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, sweet tea, hot sauce (if using), salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken wings to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
4. Remove the wings from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Fry the wings in batches until golden brown, about 7-8 minutes per batch.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on the number of wings)
Pinto Beans Slow-Cooked with Bacon
This comforting recipe is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses, especially those with smoky or spicy flavors. By slow-cooking pinto beans with crispy bacon and aromatic spices, you’ll create a rich and satisfying side dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until translucent.
4. Add the soaked pinto beans, cooked bacon, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Hot Water Cornbread Crispy on the Outside
A classic Southern recipe gets a twist with this hot water cornbread that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons hot water (not boiling)
– Honey or butter for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch cast-iron skillet or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and hot water.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared skillet or baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cornbread is golden brown and crispy on the outside, and tender on the inside.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Banana Pudding Layered with Vanilla Wafers
This rich and creamy banana pudding recipe is elevated by the crunchy texture of vanilla wafers, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 package of vanilla wafers (about 30-40 cookies)
– Whipped cream and additional vanilla wafers for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Let pudding cool to room temperature.
5. To assemble, place a layer of sliced bananas in the bottom of a serving dish, followed by a layer of vanilla wafers.
6. Repeat layers one more time, ending with a layer of pudding on top.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fried Green Tomatoes with Remoulade Sauce
Get ready for a taste of the South with this classic recipe that combines crispy fried green tomatoes with a creamy and tangy remoulade sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 green tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Sauce (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each tomato slice in buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons ketchup
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Gumbo Loaded with Shrimp, Chicken, and Sausage
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the richness of sausage, chicken, and shrimp in a spicy Cajun broth. This classic gumbo recipe is perfect for a cold winter’s night or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside with sausage.
4. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in rice, broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
7. Add shrimp and sausage/chicken mixture; cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm your heart and belly with these 20 old school soul food recipes that will transport you back to a time when comfort food was king. From Southern Fried Chicken with Crispy Coating to Mac and Cheese with Creamy Three-Cheese Sauce, and from Buttery Cornbread with a Golden Crust to Banana Pudding Layered with Vanilla Wafers, these classic dishes are sure to bring you joy and satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a sweet treat, there’s something here for everyone. So go ahead, take a step back in time, and indulge in the warmth and love of these soul food recipes.