Soul Food In The African American Community
This research paper is intended for people who eat foods that are rooted in their culture. This research essay can be used to help answer questions or provide answers to the many questions that African Americans have about soul food. It also indicates that the research essay is held to high standards by African Americans. It’s also for those who are open to trying new foods, but feel culturally restricted to eating only what is the norm in their own community. My goal was to inform those who have been discouraged or ridiculed by their family members about the reasons why they should stick to traditional African American foods like “Soul Food.”
Soul Food is focused on the African American population. The original term was created by the Black-Eyed Peas, Chitterlings, collards greens, cornbread and pigs’ feet. Many foods can have a joyful purpose. However, many foods also share that ability. For example, modern memories of soul foods or black southern food are connected to notions about family, love, and community. These foods are essential for the African American people. They have a purpose. While the African American population is more open to new food options, they are often discouraged by older relatives or friends who are able to judge them. This can lead to a culture shock. If we look at African American cuisine, it is clear that many black people eat only Soul food. This is because Soul food has traditional values that are the foundation of our changing culture. According to the African American Registry, Soul Food refers to a traditional African cuisine that is prepared and consumed by African Americans in the Southern United States. Many of the ingredients and dishes that make up’soul food are also Southern American regional dishes. American slavery is the origin of this style. The ‘leftovers’ and ‘undesirables’ meats that African slaves received from their masters were not allowed to be eaten by them. White slave owners, however, got the best cuts of meat, hams, and roasts. Many African Americans were unable to afford food after the Civil War. Their survival was dependent on their ability to find affordable items. These foods were eaten for many years and became more popular over time. This unique history was created by the passing down of such meals from generation to generation. Opie’s argument is simple. Opie gives a definition to soul that not only describes slaves, but also the positive attributes that all humankind has.
Laretta says that soul food is associated with oppression, and some people inculcate cultural pride. The bondsmen ate soul food. It was also what former slaves ate after their emancipation. The 1960s saw middle-class whites using their reported consumptions to detract from the white middle class’s values and to identify themselves as ethnically black. The black community adopted the concept of “blackness” and “soul,” regardless of their political affiliation or socio-economic status.
Soul food preserves African American heritage by creating a space that creates connections between the past & present. They pay tribute to their forefathers for introducing these foods to the forefront and making them well-loved.
Thanksgiving is a time when African Americans serve soul food. Family members can bond over this meal and share their gratitude for the people they love. It is Thanksgiving and Christmas that soul food like homemade macaroni & Cheese, stuffing, collards greens, chitterlingss, cornbread and yams are most popular. You can communicate love and unity by preparing a delicious meal for your extended family.
Soul food is considered better by African Americans than any other food because there is constant competition between food, culture territory and triggers/backlash of history. They were also competitive in the taste of their food. They have certain cooking techniques. While you cook instinctively, you also need to use taste, touch and sight. The people used these ingredients that weren’t common in everyday life to make their own identities. This strategy was a way to single out cultures and simultaneously create its own identity. Blacks, for example, were able to make their own identity by cooking the meat of unwelcome animals during slavery. They made the most of what they had and chose to accept it. African Americans should not be discouraged from the set of values they were given. This would threaten their identity and individuality as a people. They do this to leave a mark in the world and without resorting too far.
One might argue that soul food is African American-centered food, so they only eat it. This restricts their ability to appreciate other cuisines. They are culturally and linguistically isolated. This may be true in a small way, but I disagree. There was an African American cooking tradition that was based on Southerness as well as commensality. These principles are the story of how “Soul Food” became an emblem of urban, black ethnic identity.
It’s a tradition and should be practiced every day. It has a higher value, which is a sign of a deep understanding of the people’s history. You don’t have to try new foods. It is a part of growing up. It’s not necessary if it isn’t. “Soul Food” will always be the dominant element of black communities. It is a way that blacks have identified themselves and it is appreciated and recognized by other cultures. These meals should be enjoyed by all members of the community.
