Authentic African food is an integral part of Kwanzaa holiday celebrations. Here is a list of authentic African dishes that cannot miss from a Kwanzaa table. African-inspired Just like other celebrations, food is always on the table during Kwanzaa. However, Kwanzaa holiday foods have a deep meaning and a history that appreciates African lifestyle and traditions.
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During the celebrations that take place between December 26 and January 1, families across the globe gather to enjoy foods prepared for the holiday. The food is also shared with other people and also as gifts. Kwanzaa was started by Maulana Ron Karenga in 1966.
Although there are no rules set on the specific foods people should it during Kwanzaa holiday, there are a number of symbolic foods that participants include in their menu. The foods include dishes that are common with African-American families. In the 1960’s when the celebration started, the common Kwanzaa holiday foods were largely African foods but the trend is rapidly changing as participants embrace African-American dishes. Below are some of the Kwanzaa holiday foods.
Traditional African foods to celebrate Kwanzaa
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
A plate of mashed sweet potatoes. The dish is among the top dishes during Kwanzaa holiday/Courtesy
Sweet potatoes is one of the leading foods that families prepare and feast on as part of the Kwanzaa foods. The dish is rich source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants. It is a key meal that presents the African lifestyle in the Kwanzaa holiday celebrations.
Collard Greens
Collard green/Courtesy
Collard greens is one of the most essential foods that does not miss in Kwanzaa holiday celebrations. They have deep meaning and symbolize good fortunes. The dish is among those that have been incorporated in the traditions and is prepared by participants.
Collard greens are rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin A and is considered one of the healthy meals that participants of the holiday can enjoy with their friends and families. According to nutritionists, the vitamins derived from Collard green boosts the immune system.
Jerk Chicken
A plate of jerk chicken with rice/Courtesy
Jerk chicken is a food that is common in the Carribean but is also a major dish families enjoy during the Kwanzaa holiday celebrations. The meal is a great source of protein.
Okra
Okra/Courtesy
Okra contains potassium, vitamin B, vitamin C, folic acid, and calcium. It is one of the main meals that participants of the Kwanzaa holiday include in their menu. The dish is also good source of fiber and is a healthy meal that families can explore during the celebrations.
African Peanut Stew
The nutritious Africa peanut soup/Courtesy
The dish is rich in nutritional value. It draws its roots from Africa but is also enjoyed by African-Americans as one of the dishes for Kwanzaa holiday foods.
Jollof Rice
A plate of Jollof rice and chicken/Courtesy
Jollof rice is one of the most common dishes in West Africa whose popularity is gaining root in the American continent. The flavorful African rice dish is made with crushed tomatoes, red onions, green peppers, a hot pepper, tomato paste, spices and vegetable broth. The dish is rich in Vitamin C and is among the healthy meals that families enjoy during Kwanzaa holiday celebrations.
Black-Eyed Peas
Black-eyed peas/Courtesy
The black-eyed peas is an important dish that participants of the Kwanzaa holidays embrace. The high-fibre rich food symbolizes good luck. The meal is a plant-based protein with good low glycemic index choice.
Sausage & Chicken Gumbo
Chicken Gumbo and sausage/Courtesy
The dish is one of the mouth-watering dishes families can settle on for Kwanzaa holiday celebration. The dish draws its flavor from Okra and is a great source of protein.
Read more: The Official Kwanzaa website