A Legacy in the Making

For centuries, food has been central to Black culture, particularly in the United States, where the legacy of slavery influenced the culinary traditions that we hold dear today. Soul food—deeply tied to Black identity—originated as a means of survival, with enslaved Africans creating nourishing meals from the limited ingredients available to them. These dishes, such as collard greens, black-eyed peas, and cornbread, reflect a rich culinary history born out of resilience. However, as we look toward the future, it is crucial for Black Americans to consider how dietary habits affect our health and the legacies we will leave behind.

The Historical Roots of Soul Food

Soul food, as explored in Byron Hurt’s documentary Soul Food Junkies, tells the story of Black Americans’ survival through difficult times, where scraps and leftovers were transformed into flavorful and nourishing dishes. These foods were tied to the harsh reality of poverty, racism, and limited access to nutritious food. For generations, soul food brought families together and represented comfort, community, and culture.

However, today, many of these traditional foods are prepared using high amounts of fat, salt, and sugar, contributing to serious health issues in the Black community. According to the CDC, African Americans have higher rates of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, and stroke than other groups in the United States, which are closely linked to diet and lifestyle choices.

Veganism: A Path Toward Health and Sustainability

The documentary Fat, Sick, and Nearly Dead, directed by Joe Cross, offers a compelling narrative of how shifting to plant-based eating can reverse serious health conditions. Though not focused specifically on Black communities, the film highlights how adopting a plant-based or vegan diet can lead to dramatic improvements in physical well-being, energy, and longevity.

For Black Americans, incorporating more plant-based foods into our diets can help combat the diseases disproportionately affecting our community. Veganism, with its emphasis on vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains, has been shown to reduce the risks of heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Moreover, veganism aligns with a desire to honor the natural foods found in African culinary traditions—such as millet, okra, yams, and leafy greens—that are plant-based by nature.

A Legacy of Wellness

Changing our dietary habits is a powerful way to create a legacy of wellness for future generations. By adopting healthier practices—whether by reducing meat consumption, using healthier cooking oils, or exploring veganism—we can positively impact the Black community’s health for years to come. By making these changes, we are not rejecting our traditions; rather, we are evolving them to ensure our cultural heritage continues in the most sustainable and nourishing ways possible.

Incorporating plant-based dishes or healthier soul food alternatives can become a means of preserving our culture while protecting our bodies. Here are a few simple vegan recipes that reflect the flavors of soul food in a healthier light:

Black-Eyed Pea Stew

Ingredients:

1 cup dried black-eyed peas

1 onion, chopped

1 red bell pepper, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 can diced tomatoes

2 cups vegetable broth

1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions:

Add tomatoes, spices, and cooked black-eyed peas. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Cook black-eyed peas in vegetable broth until tender (about 1 hour).

Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a pan until soft.