Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey down memory lane! These 18 hearty old school soul food recipes are sure to transport you back to grandma’s kitchen, where love and comfort were always served with every meal. From classic fried chicken and smothered pork chops to sweet potato pie and peach cobbler, these dishes are guaranteed to warm your belly and soothe your soul.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the rich culinary heritage of African American cuisine, exploring the bold flavors and comforting textures that have made soul food a staple of American cooking. Whether you’re looking for a taste of nostalgia or just want to spice up your meal routine, these old school soul food recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Fried Chicken with Buttermilk Marinade
Elevate your fried chicken game with this simple recipe that combines the richness of buttermilk with a crispy, golden-brown coating. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp onion powder
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan or a deep fryer to 350°F (180°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, shaking off any excess.
6. Fry the chicken in batches for 8-10 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
This Southern-inspired recipe combines the tender goodness of collard greens with the rich, smoky flavor of smoked turkey. A perfect comfort food dish for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch collard greens, chopped
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded smoked turkey (such as andouille sausage)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Stir in the chopped collard greens, smoked turkey, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the greens are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of black pepper if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Macaroni and Cheese with Three Cheeses
Classic Macaroni and Cheese with Three Cheeses Recipe
A comforting twist on the classic macaroni and cheese, this recipe combines three distinct cheeses for a rich and creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tbsp 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. Add flour and whisk to combine; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and blue cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce; mix well to combine.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Cornbread with Honey Butter
This classic cornbread recipe gets a boost of flavor with the addition of honey butter, making it a perfect side dish for your next family gathering or casual dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey butter (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Honey Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
Mix together until smooth and spread on top of warm cornbread before serving.
Black-Eyed Peas with Ham Hocks
This hearty dish is a staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. Simmering black-eyed peas with savory ham hocks creates a rich and flavorful broth that’s bursting with protein and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 ham hocks, rinsed and cleaned
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine soaked black-eyed peas, ham hocks, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Remove from heat and let sit for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Fried Catfish with Hot Sauce Drizzle
Get ready to taste the bold flavors of Southern comfort food with this crispy fried catfish recipe, served with a spicy kick from hot sauce drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 4 catfish fillets (about 6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Hot sauce (such as Tabasco or Frank’s RedHot) for drizzling
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 catfish fillet into the buttermilk, then coat in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
5. Fry catfish for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
7. Drizzle with hot sauce and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total
Smothered Pork Chops with Gravy
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Thick-cut pork chops smothered in a rich, savory gravy and served over creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless pork chops
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season pork chops with flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Cook pork chops for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until thickened.
6. Spoon gravy over pork chops and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Red Beans and Rice with Andouille Sausage
This hearty, comforting dish is a staple of Louisiana cuisine, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. With the rich flavors of andouille sausage and red beans, served over fluffy white rice, you’ll be transported to the Bayou State’s culinary heart.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beans, onion, garlic, sausage, cumin, oregano, and cayenne.
2. Add chicken broth, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 8-10 hours or overnight.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. Serve red beans over rice, with sausage slices on top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (or overnight)
Candied Yams with Brown Sugar Glaze
Sweet and savory, candied yams with a brown sugar glaze are a classic Thanksgiving side dish that’s sure to please. This simple recipe yields a deliciously caramelized and flavorful result.
Ingredients:
– 4 large yams (or sweet potatoes), peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– Salt to taste
– Optional: marshmallows or chopped nuts for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and corn syrup.
3. Add the melted butter, salt, and yam slices to the bowl. Toss until the yams are evenly coated with the sugar mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the yam slices in a single layer.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the yams are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Optional: top with marshmallows or chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Fried Green Tomatoes with Remoulade
A classic Southern delight, fried green tomatoes pair perfectly with a tangy and creamy remoulade sauce.
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 (see below for recipe)
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 into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the coated tomato slices for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain on paper towels.
Remoulade Sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. Serve chilled alongside the fried green tomatoes.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes, including frying time.
Chitterlings with Vinegar and Hot Peppers
Get ready to savor a classic Southern comfort food dish with a spicy twist! This recipe for chitterlings (stewed pig intestines) is elevated by the tanginess of vinegar and the bold flavor of hot peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chitterlings, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium-hot pepper (such as jalapeño or serrano), sliced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chitterlings, vinegar, water, oil, garlic, and hot peppers.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Peach Cobbler with Flaky Crust
Peach Cobbler with Flaky Crust Recipe
Savor the sweetness of ripe peaches wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. This classic dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups flaky biscuit or cobbler crust mix (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt. Toss until peaches are evenly coated.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, heavy cream, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour wet ingredients over peach mixture; stir to combine.
5. Roll out flaky crust mix on a lightly floured surface to desired thickness.
6. Place peaches in a 9×13-inch baking dish; cover with crust.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Shrimp and Grits with Cheese Sauce
Savor the flavors of the Lowcountry with this comforting dish that combines succulent shrimp, creamy grits, and a rich cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Stir in butter until melted.
2. In a separate pan, sauté shrimp with salt and pepper until pink and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, make cheese sauce by melting cheddar and Parmesan cheeses together in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until smooth.
4. Combine cooked grits and shrimp in the cheese sauce. Stir until well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Okra and Tomatoes Stew
A classic West African stew that’s simple yet flavorful, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender okra with juicy tomatoes and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen okra
– 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Add the okra and stir gently to combine with the tomato mixture.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the okra is tender.
7. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pound Cake with Lemon Glaze
Brighten up your dessert table with this classic pound cake infused with the warmth of lemon and topped with a tangy glaze. Perfect for springtime gatherings or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 3/4 cups (210g) granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs, at room temperature
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper.
2. Beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in lemon zest and juice.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Lemon Glaze:
1. Whisk together 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
2. Drizzle over cooled pound cake.
Neck Bones with Potatoes and Onions
Classic Neck Bones with Potatoes and Onions Recipe
This hearty dish is a comforting staple of Southern cuisine, perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering. With tender neck bones, creamy potatoes, and sweet onions, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork neck bones
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the neck bones and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the diced potatoes. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until they’re tender.
5. Add the sliced onions to the pot and continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re caramelized.
6. Return the neck bones to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover the pot and bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes
Sweet Potato Pie with Nutmeg
Sweet Potato Pie with Nutmeg Recipe
Summary: This sweet potato pie recipe combines the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes with the warm, aromatic flavor of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roast the sweet potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted sweet potatoes, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Blend until smooth.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs.
5. Add the cream mixture to the sweet potato mixture and blend until well combined.
6. Roll out the pie crust and fill with the sweet potato mixture.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
BBQ Ribs with Homemade Sauce
Get ready to fall in love with these tender and flavorful BBQ ribs smothered in a rich, homemade sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
3. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Apply the sauce evenly to both racks of ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Place the ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, bone-side down.
6. Bake for 2 hours, or until the meat starts to pull away from the bones.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some good ol’ fashioned comfort food! This collection of 18 soulful recipes will transport you back to a time when meals were warm, inviting, and full of flavor. From classic fried chicken and mac ‘n cheese to sweet potato pie and peach cobbler, these hearty dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. With ingredients like smoked turkey, andouille sausage, and honey butter, these recipes are as authentic as they are delicious. So go ahead, get cozy, and let the warmth of these old school soul food recipes fill your belly and your heart!
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