This post may contain affiliate links which means I will get a commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read my disclosure for details.
Celebrate culture and flavor with these African American recipes. They showcase both traditional and modern favorites, including cookies, stews, and cornbread.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Enter your email below and we'll send the recipe straight to your inbox!
Cooking should be fun, flavorful, and full of love.
African American dishes have been passed down for generations because they bring all of that and more to the table.
If you want to try something new and comforting, these recipes are a great place to start.
Akara (Black Eyed Peas Fritters)
Whether for breakfast, a snack, or a side dish, Akara is a must-try.
They’re made with black-eyed peas, habanero peppers, crayfish, peanut oil, and a bit of salt.
Get The Recipe: Akara (Black Eyed Peas Fritters)
Crockpot Black Eyed Peas
This dish is a staple in Southern and African American cooking, and this crockpot version makes it even easier to enjoy.
The beans become soft and creamy while absorbing the smoky flavors of garlic and spices.
Get The Recipe: Crockpot Black Eyed Peas
Dutch Oven Apple Cobbler
Craving something sweet? You’ll love the irresistible flavors of this cobbler.
It comes with a delicious filling made of cinnamon, sugar, and apples.
Get The Recipe: Dutch Oven Apple Cobbler
Nigerian Jollof Rice
Jollof rice is flavorful, vibrant, and deeply rooted in African cuisine.
Prepare this one-pot recipe for your family. It results in a smoky, slightly spicy dish with a perfectly fluffy texture.
Get The Recipe: Nigerian Jollof Rice
Sign up now to receive our exclusive e-cookbook filled with top-rated recipes for FREE!
Nigerian Meat Pie
Who doesn’t love meat pies? This version is one of the best ones you can try.
It’s portable and so easy to make, with potatoes, carrots, ground beef, and onions.
Get The Recipe: Nigerian Meat Pie
Banana Pudding Cookies
Bake these cookies whenever you’re craving something sweet and festive.
These treats deliver irresistible sweetness with a slight crunch from crushed vanilla wafers.
Get The Recipe: Banana Pudding Cookies
Nigerian Chicken Stew
Enjoy stews on Sundays or anytime you want. This one will fill your home with a mouthwatering aroma.
Serve it hot over rice or with fresh bread to soak up every drop.
Get The Recipe: Nigerian Chicken Stew
Slow Cooker Hoppin John
This slow cooker creation features smoked sausages, black-eyed peas, tomatoes, beef broth, Cajun seasonings, and white onions.
It’s savory and earthy, with a satisfying texture.
Get The Recipe: Slow Cooker Hoppin John
Nigerian Fried Rice
Let this recipe take your rice meals to another level.
It’s loaded with rice, beef liver, chicken, green beans, carrots, and bell peppers. Garnish it with thinly sliced red chili peppers for color and heat.
Get The Recipe: Nigerian Fried Rice
Strawberry Peach Cobbler
Got a few extra strawberries and peaches? You’ll enjoy making this cobbler!
Just toss the fruit with sugar and spices, add the topping, and bake until bubbly and golden.
Get The Recipe: Strawberry Peach Cobbler
Nigerian Chin Chin
These treats are crunchy, lightly sweet, and absolutely addictive.
They’re a must-try for any occasion. They store well, too, making them a great snack to have on hand.
Get The Recipe: Nigerian Chin Chin
Sign up now to receive our exclusive e-cookbook filled with top-rated recipes for FREE!
Peach Cobbler Pound Cake With Cream Cheese
This dessert brings together the best of two classics.
It offers everything you love about a buttery pound cake and the spiced goodness of peach cobbler.
Get The Recipe: Peach Cobbler Pound Cake With Cream Cheese
TikTok Mac and Cheese
If you haven’t tried the viral mac and cheese yet, you’re in for a treat.
This version is ultra-creamy, with just the right amount of cheesiness in every bite.
Get The Recipe: TikTok Mac and Cheese
Vegan Fried Chicken
Want some fried chicken but looking for a healthier option? This vegan version is a great choice.
It’s a plant-based comfort food made with seitan, non-dairy milk, apple cider vinegar, and seasonings.
Get The Recipe: Vegan Fried Chicken
Vegan Sweet Potato Pie
This vegan dessert offers a tasty twist on a Southern favorite.
Main ingredients include coconut milk, cinnamon, maple syrup, and sweet potatoes. It’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Get The Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Pie
Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles
Brighten up your breakfast routine with these waffles.
They are packed with avocado slices, sour cream, shredded cheese, and other fun toppings.
Get The Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Waffles
Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas
Use your trusty Instant Pot to make the most family-friendly meals.
This one is a classic dish that you can make in just around 30 minutes. Pair it with collard greens for a more filling meal.
Get The Recipe: Instant Pot Black Eyed Peas
Skillet Cornbread with Honey-Butter Glaze
Have you ever made cornbread at home? Challenge yourself today and explore this version.
Its glaze is simple yet so sweet and buttery.
Get The Recipe: Skillet Cornbread with Honey-Butter Glaze
Fried Chicken Legs
These chicken legs are marinated in a flavorful mix of mustard, Tabasco sauce, and seasonings.
It’s an easy recipe that delivers that classic Southern-style fried chicken experience with every bite.
Get The Recipe: Fried Chicken Legs
Jamaican Oxtail Stew With Butterbeans
This dish features oxtail, butterbeans, carrots, onions, tomatoes, and spices.
It’s a great make-ahead meal—prepare it and store it in the fridge for up to five days.
Get The Recipe: Jamaican Oxtail Stew With Butterbeans
Smothered Chicken
African American recipes prove that even the simplest ingredients can create the most delicious meals.
You only need a few basic pantry ingredients for this recipe, including flour, garlic, butter, and heavy cream.
Get The Recipe: Smothered Chicken
Sign up now to receive our exclusive e-cookbook filled with top-rated recipes for FREE!
Biscuits and Gravy
This dish is a true classic that never disappoints.
The biscuits are light, fluffy, and buttery, while the sausage gravy is packed with savory goodness.
Get The Recipe: Biscuits and Gravy
Vegan Grits With Mushrooms and Collard Greens
Who says comfort food can’t be plant-based?
These vegan grits are made with veggie broth, vegan butter, plant-based milk, and garlic powder.
Get The Recipe: Vegan Grits With Mushrooms and Collard Greens
Hot Water Cornbread
This cornbread is as simple as it is delicious.
Mix the batter, shape it into patties, and fry to golden perfection. Serve it with various dipping sauces for a fun twist.
Get The Recipe: Hot Water Cornbread
Gumbo
It’s time to make your own gumbo and impress your loved ones. This version is loaded with andouille sausage, onions, bell peppers, celery, and garlic.
It comes together in around three hours but is worth the wait.
Get The Recipe: Gumbo
Sign up now to receive our exclusive e-cookbook filled with top-rated recipes for FREE!
Put new twists on classic African American dishes and try other homemade meals that deliver the same warmth and satisfaction.
Why don’t you explore smoky, spicy, and savory combos?
Dishes with smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic, and caramelized onions are a great place to start.
25 African American Food Recipes That Might Become Your New Obsession
It’s true, these food recipes might just become your new favorite obsession! From classics to Southern favorites, you’ll love these.
Read it here: 25 African American Food Recipes That Might Become Your New Obsession
Is Walmart+ Worth It? Honest Review 3 Years Later!
Is the new Walmart Plus worth the annual fee or is it just another failed version of Amazon Prime? I spent my own money trying this service out for 12 months and counting. I have a lot to say about the benefits and drawbacks in this Walmart+ honest review.
Read it here: Is Walmart+ Worth It? Honest Review 3 Years Later!
30+ African Recipes You Can Make Without Leaving Your Home
These African recipes will have you craving bold, delicious meals! Bring amazing flavors to your kitchen with beloved African dishes!
Read it here: 30+ African Recipes You Can Make Without Leaving Your Home
Looking for more comforting meals? Make these recipes a part of your new family traditions:
- 25 African American Dishes That Might Outshine Your Grandma’s Cooking
- 25 Soul Food Dinner Recipes You’ll Never Believe Are This Easy to Make
- 25+ Soul Food Recipes That Bond Generations Over Good Food
- 25 Black People Meals That Will Instantly Elevate Your Cooking Skills
- 15 Black People Party Food Ideas for a Spectacular Feast