For as long as anyone can remember, soul food has been a huge part of the Black community. Each part of the pig and cow has been on the menu for so many, but as people become more educated they are beginning to look for healthier alternatives to the foods we grew to love. People are beginning to use turkey instead of pork to cook their greens and even air-fried chicken. Here are some very creative and healthy alternatives to soul food that are still very delicious.
Meatless Meatloaf
Many can agree that meatloaf is a great meal to have on a Sunday with a side of mashed potatoes or mac n cheese. If you are someone who is trying to avoid carbs or red meat, it may not be a good idea to eat this consistently. For those who like red meat, but understand that it is unhealthy them one of the best alternatives is beyond meat. Typically people use this for burgers, tacos, or pasta, but it also can be formed into a meatloaf.
Cheeseless “Mac n Cheese”
Macaroni and Cheese is one of the most popular meals to have with your family after church, on holidays, and even at the cookout. This soul food staple is a delicacy in the black community. For those who are trying to stay away from carbs and dairy, it is most definitely not a good option. This tasty alternative can be served with gluten-free noodles and vegan cheese.
BBQ Black Eyed Peas Collard Green Rolls
For the BBQ lovers out there who are trying to stay away from beef and pork, you might want to pay close attention to this dish. These are soul food versions of lettuce wraps with way more flavor. Black-eyed peas and collard greens are soul food favorites. Typically collard greens are accompanied by some sort of fatty meat and another side dish loaded with carbs. This meal is all veggies and peas with a BBQ sauce for a tangy flavor. Chances are you have never had anything like this so it’s worth a try.
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Sauteed Okra and Tomatoes
This dish is probably the most creative one on the list. The chances of you going to your grandmother’s house and seeing sauteed okra and tomatoes are very low, but the health benefits of tomatoes are wonderful. Tomatoes are a good source of antioxidants lycopene and this is linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and some cancers. They are also a good source of vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin K like so many other fruits since they are botanically considered fruit.
Air Fryer Chicken
Fried chicken hands down have to be one of the most popular, but unhealthy soul food options available. There are many people who are simply going to refuse to let it go. Well, now there is a healthier option for those who just have to have fried chicken. When you fry chicken in an air fryer there is no grease needed which is one of the main reasons it is so unhealthy. If you prepare your air fryer chicken with a side of sauteed okra and tomatoes with cheeseless mac n cheese you will be on your way to a more healthy lifestyle.
