15 Black People Recipes: Delicious Dishes to Celebrate Culture and Flavor

Exploring Black people recipes opens a door to a vibrant culinary heritage that is rich in flavor and history. These recipes not only satisfy your taste buds but also connect you to the stories and traditions of the community.

In this article, you will discover a variety of dishes that celebrate the creativity and diversity of Black cuisine. From comforting soul food classics to innovative modern twists, these recipes invite you to experience the joy of cooking and sharing meals with loved ones.

1) Kool-Aid Pie

Kool-Aid Pie is a fun and colorful dessert that’s easy to make. You can choose your favorite Kool-Aid flavor to create a unique treat. The pie has a light and creamy texture that everyone will love.

To start, you will need a few simple ingredients. The best part is that it doesn’t require baking, so you can enjoy it right after it sets in the fridge.

Gather your ingredients, and you’ll be ready to make this delightful pie.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (227 g) Cool Whip
• 1 pkg (0.14 oz or 4 g) unsweetened Kool-Aid (any flavor)
• 14 oz (396 g) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 graham cracker pie crust

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the Cool Whip, Kool-Aid, and sweetened condensed milk.
2. Mix gently until everything is well blended.
3. Pour the mixture into the graham cracker crust.
4. Chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.

2) Bacardi Rum Cake

Bacardi Rum Cake is a delicious dessert that brings a taste of the Caribbean to your table. This cake is moist and flavorful due to the rum, making it perfect for special occasions or just a fun treat.

The main ingredients include a boxed cake mix and vanilla pudding. You’ll also need eggs, milk, vegetable oil, and, of course, Bacardi rum for that signature taste. Nuts can be added to give extra texture.

To make the cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by mixing the dry ingredients in a bowl. Then, add the wet ingredients and blend until smooth.

Ingredients

• 1 box yellow cake mix
• 1 package vanilla pudding
• 4 eggs
• ½ cup milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup Bacardi rum
• Nuts (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a bundt pan and sprinkle nuts on the bottom.
3. In a large bowl, mix cake mix, pudding, eggs, milk, oil, and rum.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
5. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until golden brown.

3) Air Fryer Cornbread

Air fryer cornbread is a tasty side dish that’s easy to make. It offers a crispy outside while staying moist inside. Perfect for pairing with chili or your favorite comfort food.

To get started, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This helps the cornbread cook evenly. You can grease a small baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

You will love how quickly this recipe comes together. All you need are just a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients

• 1 box Jiffy corn muffin mix
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup milk
• Butter or cooking spray for greasing

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together the corn muffin mix, egg, and milk.
3. Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish.
4. Place the dish in the air fryer basket and cook for about 15-20 minutes.
5. Check for doneness with a toothpick before serving.

4) Patti LaBelle’s Sweet Potato Pie

Patti LaBelle’s Sweet Potato Pie is a beloved dessert known for its rich flavor and creamy texture. It’s a great treat for holidays or any special occasion.

You start with sweet potatoes as the main ingredient. They give the pie its natural sweetness. Mixing them with spices creates a delicious filling.

The pie crust is also important. You can use store-bought dough or make your own from scratch. The buttery crust complements the sweet filling perfectly.

This pie is easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends. It’s a true comfort food that brings people together.

Ingredients:

• 3 large sweet potatoes
• 1 cup sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• Pie crust

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil sweet potatoes until soft, then mash them.
3. Combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, butter, vanilla, spices, and eggs.
4. Pour filling into the pie crust.
5. Bake for about 45 minutes, until set. Enjoy!

5) Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a beloved dish in Black cuisine. It features a crispy, golden crust and juicy, tender meat. This comfort food is perfect for gatherings and family meals.

To make delicious fried chicken, you’ll want to start with a good marinade. Many people use buttermilk to keep the chicken moist and flavorful. The seasoning is key, so don’t be afraid to mix in your favorite spices.

Here’s what you need:

Ingredients

• 4 pieces of chicken
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Oil for frying

Cooking Instructions

1. Soak the chicken in buttermilk for at least 2 hours.
2. Mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Heat oil in a pan to 350°F (175°C).
4. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture.
5. Fry the chicken until golden brown, about 15-18 minutes.

6) Banana Pudding

Banana pudding is a classic dessert that many people love. It’s creamy, sweet, and satisfying. This Southern treat is perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in.

To make banana pudding, you’ll need ripe bananas, vanilla wafers, and a smooth pudding mixture. Some recipes even include homemade whipped cream for extra fluffiness.

Start by layering the vanilla wafers and banana slices in a dish. Then, pour the pudding mixture over the layers. Finish with whipped cream on top.

Banana pudding is not only delicious but also easy to make. You can find different twists on this classic, allowing you to create your very own signature version.

Ingredients

• 4 ripe bananas
• 1 box of vanilla wafers
• 2 cups milk (480 ml)
• 1 cup sugar (200 g)
• 1/2 cup cornstarch (65 g)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy cream (240 ml, optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix sugar and cornstarch.
2. Slowly add milk while stirring.
3. Cook over medium heat until thickened.
4. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Layer wafers and banana slices in a dish.
6. Pour pudding over layers.
7. Top with whipped cream if desired.
8. Chill before serving.

7) Sheet-Pan Salmon

Sheet-pan salmon is a simple and delicious meal that you can prepare effortlessly. Just lay your salmon on a sheet pan with some fresh vegetables, and you’ll have dinner ready in no time.

You can season the salmon with your choice of herbs and spices. A squeeze of lemon or some garlic can add a nice touch. The veggies can include asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful and healthy dish.

This method not only makes for a quick clean-up but also ensures you have a balanced meal. Serve your salmon over rice or couscous for a filling dinner.

Ingredients

• Salmon fillet
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Lemon juice
• Asparagus or broccoli
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place the salmon on the sheet pan.
3. Add chopped vegetables around the salmon.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over everything.
5. Sprinkle garlic, salt, and pepper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until salmon is cooked through.

8) Slow-Cooked Chicken Tinga

Slow-Cooked Chicken Tinga is a delicious and easy recipe that packs a flavorful punch. This dish features tender chicken simmering in a smoky, spicy sauce made from tomatoes and chipotle peppers. Perfect for tacos or served over rice, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

To start, season and sear your chicken pieces in a pan. This adds great flavor. Then, transfer the chicken to a slow cooker, pour the sauce over it, and let it cook until tender.

Once it’s done, shred the chicken and mix it back into the sauce. You can enjoy this dish with warm tortillas, toppings, or any side you love.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Sear chicken in a pan until browned.
2. Place chicken, onions, and garlic in the slow cooker.
3. Blend tomatoes and chipotle peppers, then pour over chicken.
4. Cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-6 hours.
5. Shred chicken and mix it back into the sauce before serving.

9) Popular Ethiopian Dish ‘Tibs’

Tibs is a delicious Ethiopian dish that you will enjoy. This recipe features tender pieces of beef sautéed with onions, peppers, and spices. It’s known for its rich flavors and is often served with injera, a traditional Ethiopian flatbread.

To make Tibs, you will need a mix of spices that bring an exciting taste to the beef. The key to a great Tibs is cooking the beef until it is just right, making it juicy and full of flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) beef sirloin, cut into cubes
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons berbere spice mix
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh rosemary (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F or 180°C).
2. Add sliced onions and cook until they start to caramelize.
3. Stir in the beef and cook until browned.
4. Add bell peppers and berbere spice. Stir well.
5. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the beef is cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve with injera.

10) Beer Braised Short Ribs

Beer braised short ribs are a delicious and comforting dish. You’ll enjoy the rich flavors that come from slow cooking the meat in beer and spices. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

To start, you’ll need beef short ribs that are tender and juicy. The cooking process takes time, but the results are worth it. After a few hours in the oven, the meat will be easy to pull apart.

Ingredients

• 3-4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 cups beer (your choice)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
4. Brown the short ribs on all sides.
5. Remove the ribs and sauté onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until soft.
6. Return the ribs to the pot and add beer.
7. Bring to a simmer and cover.
8. Bake in the oven for 2-2½ hours.
9. Ensure the meat is tender before serving.
10. Enjoy your delicious beer braised short ribs!

11) Collard Greens

Collard greens are a traditional dish in Southern cooking. They are flavorful and packed with nutrients. You can enjoy them as a side or as a main dish.

Start by washing the collard greens thoroughly to remove any grit. You can use a large bowl or fill your sink with water. After washing, remove the tough stems.

For cooking, consider adding a smoked turkey leg or ham hocks for extra flavor. Cook the greens low and slow to bring out their tenderness and taste.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds of collard greens
• 1 pre-cooked smoked turkey leg (optional)
• 1 cup of diced yellow onion
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups of water or broth

Cooking Instructions

1. Wash the collard greens in water.
2. Remove the tough stems and chop the leaves.
3. In a large pot, sauté the onion in a little oil.
4. Add the collard greens and cover with water or broth.
5. Add the smoked turkey or ham if using.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 45 minutes at 210°F (99°C).

12) Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a delicious dish that comes from the South, especially popular in the Carolinas and New Orleans. It blends the flavors of seasoned shrimp with creamy grits, making a comforting meal.

The grits are usually made from ground corn and can be prepared in many ways. You can use stone-ground, quick, or instant grits. This dish often features shrimp that are sautéed with spices, adding a savory kick.

The combination is served warm, creating a satisfying meal for any time of day. You can even add cheese or other toppings for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups grits
• 4 cups water (946 ml)
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cheese, garlic, and spices

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil the water in a pot.
2. Stir in the grits, then lower the heat.
3. Cook the grits until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a skillet, melt butter and sauté shrimp until pink.
5. Season shrimp, then serve on top of the grits.

13) Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a flavorful dish that comes from Louisiana. It has a mix of rice, meat, and spices, making it a delicious one-pot meal. You can customize it with different proteins like chicken, shrimp, or sausage.

Start by sautéing your favorite meats in a large pot. Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers and onions for extra flavor. Stir in rice and spices, then pour in broth.

Let everything simmer until the rice is tender and fluffy. This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 pound boneless chicken, cubed
• 1 pound sausage, sliced
• 1 cup bell peppers, chopped
• 1 cup onions, chopped
• 2 cups rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• Spices: Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and sausage; cook until browned.
3. Stir in bell peppers and onions, cooking until soft.
4. Add rice and stir to coat.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and spices.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
7. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is cooked.

14) Red Beans and Rice

Red beans and rice is a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor. It originates from Louisiana, making it a staple in Southern cooking. This dish is hearty and filling, perfect for any meal.

You can use red kidney beans, smoked sausage, and plenty of spices to create the right flavor. It’s easy to customize, so you can add vegetables like bell peppers and onions.

Start by soaking the beans overnight. This helps them cook evenly and become tender. You can cook them on the stove or use a slow cooker for a hands-off approach.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red kidney beans
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Soak the beans overnight in water.
2. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook until soft.
4. Stir in the Cajun seasoning.
5. Add soaked beans and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours until beans are tender.
7. Cook rice according to package instructions.
8. Serve beans over rice. Enjoy!

15) Chitlins

Chitlins, also known as chitterlings, are a beloved dish in many Black households. They are prepared from the small intestines of pigs and have a rich history in soul food.

When cooking chitlins, it’s important to clean them thoroughly. You will need to wash them well to ensure they are free of any impurities.

Chitlins are typically boiled and can be seasoned to your taste. Many people enjoy them with hot sauce or vinegar. They are often served with sides like cornbread or black-eyed peas.

Ingredients

• 5 pounds of chitlins
• 2 cups of water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hot sauce (optional)
• Vinegar (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the chitlins thoroughly under cold water.
2. Cut them into small pieces, about 1-2 inches long.
3. Place chitlins in a pot and add water to cover them.
4. Bring to a boil over high heat (212°F or 100°C).
5. Reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour.
6. Drain the chitlins in a colander and rinse again.
7. Season and serve as desired.