By Sariyah Loughridge, Writer | November 15, 2024
Photo by Associated Press
Thanksgiving is an adored holiday tradition, where soul food truly takes the spotlight in many families.
It’s more than just a meal, it’s a celebration of culture, history, and memories with one another. From the greens simmered to perfection with savory pieces of meat to the pleasant sweet potato pie that takes center stage, these dishes carry special meaning and ties to generations past.
Let’s dive right into these main protein dishes - turkey and ham!
Turkey is a versatile dish that can be roasted, smoked, or fried while ham is a flexible dish that comes glazed or smoked, delivering a salty vibe with subtle hints of sweetness and rich fatness around the edges. Both keep a place in the soul but cater to different tastes and texture preferences.
Then, we have good ol 'mac and cheese. What’s true soul without a gooey, creamy, and baked dish with crispy golden edges at the top? A bite that starts off with a satisfying crunch and ends with melty goodness. Everyone's recipes vary, but a good mac and cheese can easily steal the show.
Cheerleader Coach Mita adds her own little twist to her special mac and cheese recipe.
“It may sound weird but putting sour cream in mac n cheese makes it thicker and creamier,” said Coach Mita.
Now, let’s not forget about candied yams. A perfectly spiced flavor that balances out other savory dishes. The syrupy yams caramelized with brown sugar, smooth butter, a splash of vanilla, and hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. If you’re feeling different, add some marshmallows to create a unique twist. Ideally, yams are sweet, but they can be prepared in savory ways. With elements both smokey and fresh, such as parsley, smoked paprika, garlic and onion powder.
Of course, we need some additional vegetables to balance out the carbs and proteins.
Cabbage can be sauteed beautifully with onions, garlic and smoked meats such as bacon or ham hock flowering with brinny goodness and a slight undertone of sweetness. Soulful collard greens are best when slow-cooked with flavorful turkey or pork, simmering in a lovely smokiness. Both are combined with dashing seasonings and vinegar, elevating them into a heartwarming side.
BSAP staff,Mr. Collins stated, “My ma and great-grandmother make collard greens just right.”
It wouldn’t be a complete Thanksgiving feast without sweet potato pie. It’s a perfect silky and pumpkin spiced treat that’ll leave everyone with a satisfied smile. Warm up the pie and top it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, and you’ll be wanting thirds.
Leadership president and CHS senior Kennedy Young stated, “You want to know what makes my special sweet potato pie unique … It’s soul.”
As we all know, soul food has its drawbacks … chitlins. Some families believe it’s essential due to it holding cultural significance. Others view it as a dish with a strong off-putting aroma and image.
And for those who grew up enjoying black-eyed peas, carrying a sense of nostalgia: a mild and earthy taste, these must be included as well. Yet some aren’t very pleased with its bland flavor.
Another popular side dish is potato salad, sparking a debate between whether it's simply a summer BBQ side or a dish served at the Thanksgiving table. There are also questions about whether it should be creamier, tangier or boldly spiced. It can be made just right with a bit of tangy mustard, relish, and eggs while some prefer a less mushy texture.
The Thanksgiving table would not be complete without the dressing. The bread soaks up juice and flavors from roasted meats and herbs, building a moist and tasty dish that can be enjoyed with sweet cranberry sauce.
Although we all love food, it represents something much more than just fulfilling hunger-it is the generations before us, nurturing togetherness through love and flavor. Whether you’re loyal to traditional dishes or urging for something different, Thanksgiving soul food manifests a rich history that goes beyond a plate. It’s a tradition that shapes connections, celebrations, and comfort.
Now let’s be real. How many plates are you taking to-go?
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