There's a reason they call it “soul food.” These classic dishes nourish far more than just the body; they feed the spirit with cherished family recipes passed down through generations.
Born of humble ingredients, these comforting flavors embody culture and history, creating a “love language” of Southern hospitality in every bite. Explore this collection of soulful recipes that pay homage to the culinary traditions of the South, where every taste is a celebration of heritage and home.
Explore this collection of soulful recipes that pay homage to the culinary traditions of the South, where every taste is a celebration of heritage and home.
1. BLACK-EYED PEAS
A beloved staple of Southern food, black-eyed peas are often eaten on New Year's Day for good luck. We predict you’ll want to eat them far more often, especially with this recipe that comes together in a snap using your crock pot. (We also have a stovetop method if you prefer.) This homey side gets its distinct flavor from not one but two kinds of pork and a symphony of spices.
2. COLLARD GREENS WITH BACON
The essence of this leafy vegetable is sometimes described as a cross between kale and cabbage. It’s a delicious way to bone up on calcium and vitamins A and K, especially with this recipe that features a slight bite from combining McCormick Pure Ground Black Pepper and McCormick Crushed Red Pepper, topped with the smoky flavor of crumbled bacon. Active cooking time is minimal, but you do need to let the greens simmer for about an hour to ensure they’re tender and tasty.
3. HUSH PUPPIES
These delightful golden nuggets of fried cornmeal batter have a rich history deeply rooted in Southern cuisine. Legend has it their name originated from the practice of tossing small balls of fried cornmeal to hungry barking dogs in order to "hush" them. (Something tells us this would work on kids, too!) These hush puppies boast the ideal texture, with a crispy exterior and soft, savory interior, perfectly seasoned with McCormick Perfect Pinch Cajun Seasoning. Key tip: For a true Southern feast, you can serve all three of these recipes together.
4. FRIED CATFISH NUGGETS
Fried food is a Southern tradition, and these catfish nuggets with their flaky texture and mild flavor will have you fishing for more. Purchase catfish fillets in your market’s seafood department, then cut them into chunks and dredge them in a zingy mixture of buttermilk and egg, seasoned with OLD BAY, Creole Mustard and Cajun Hot Sauce, finished off with a coating of Zat’s Crispy Southern Fish Fri. Serve these as a small bite on a charcuterie board or as a hearty main dish with other soul food sides.
5. CRAB CAKES
Another bite-sized fried food stunner, these morsels also use OLD BAY Seasoning, along with tangy French's Classic Worcestershire Sauce and a sprinkle of McCormick Parsley Flakes. Baking powder adds a lift to yield a light and fluffy creation. Add a side salad or coleslaw to round out a complete meal.
6. CAJUN SHRIMP
Three ingredients and five minutes to a delectable Southern food dish? Yes, please! Toss succulent shrimp in McCormick Perfect Pinch Cajun Seasoning for an irresistible culinary delight with heat and heart. Feel free to mix and match this zesty main with other soul food sides.
7. FRIED CHICKEN AND WAFFLES WITH MOLASSES CIDER SYRUP
We’ve saved one of the most iconic Southern food main dishes for last. This classic combination pairs tender fried chicken with warm, fluffy waffles tinged with sage. The whole dish is then drizzled with an elevated maple syrup that gets a satisfying kick from apple cider, molasses and McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract. The mouthwatering duo presents a feast for the senses, with its savory crunch and sweet finish.
8. BANANA PUDDING
Indulge in a nostalgic embrace with this classic banana pudding — comfort food at its finest. This no-bake version features layers of velvety vanilla pudding, ripe banana slices and crumbled cookies that unite to evoke cherished memories of home-cooked goodness. Dive into this bowl of pure bliss only a timeless dessert can provide.
9. EASY PEACH COBBLER
This lusciously decadent peach cobbler is the perfect finish to any soul food meal. While perfectly ripe peaches make it a summer indulgence, you can enjoy this treat year-round with frozen peach slices. (Did you know frozen fruit retains its nutritional value because it’s frozen at its peak?) While some people prefer pie, we’re Team Cobbler all the way, with its flavorful fruit filling bubbling beneath a crumbly biscuit topping, infused with homey hints of McCormick Ground Cinnamon, McCormick Ground Ginger and McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract.
10. SWEET POTATO PIE
Don’t worry…we have the pie fans covered with this quintessential Southern food dessert. Each silky-smooth bite is saturated with McCormick Ground Cinnamon, McCormick All Natural Pure Vanilla Extract and McCormick Ground Nutmeg. A ready-made pie crust simplifies prep while retaining all of this recipe’s Southern charm.
Other Southern Food Recipes
Ready to experience more southern culinary fun? Here are some iconic Southern dishes that you'll enjoy:
