50+ Traditional New Years Soul Food Recipes for a Flavorful Start

New Year’s Day is a time for new beginnings, reflection, and gathering with loved ones.

For many, it’s also a time to enjoy some of the most comforting and flavorful dishes that the soul food tradition has to offer.

Soul food, with its rich flavors, comforting textures, and historical significance, brings warmth and joy to any celebration.

From collard greens that symbolize prosperity to sweet potato pies that evoke memories of family gatherings, New Year’s soul food dishes are as much a part of the holiday as fireworks and champagne.

In this blog post, we’ve compiled over 50 mouthwatering New Year’s soul food recipes that will make your celebration memorable.

Whether you’re looking to create a hearty feast for family and friends or add a special touch to your holiday table, these recipes are sure to satisfy every palate.

With traditional Southern dishes like fried chicken, cornbread, and mac and cheese, you’ll find all the comforting favorites, along with a few surprises to make your New Year’s meal truly unforgettable.

50+ Traditional New Years Soul Food Recipes for a Flavorful Start

New Year’s Day is more than just a fresh start—it’s a celebration of tradition, togetherness, and the joy of good food.

Soul food recipes, passed down through generations, bring both comfort and meaning to the table.

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or sharing an intimate meal with family, these 50+ New Year’s soul food recipes are the perfect way to honor the past while celebrating the future.

From savory dishes like collard greens and fried chicken to sweet treats like candied yams and peach cobbler, there’s something for everyone.

Embrace the spirit of the season, cook up some soul food, and make this New Year’s Day one to remember with delicious flavors and heartfelt traditions.

New Year’s Day Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

A Southern classic that is a must-have for any New Year’s celebration, this Collard Greens recipe features tender greens simmered in a savory broth with smoky turkey. Rich in flavor, these greens are cooked low and slow, absorbing all the smoky goodness from the turkey, making them a deliciously comforting dish. Whether you believe in the tradition of eating collard greens for luck or simply love the taste, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
• 1 lb smoked turkey leg or wings
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the smoked turkey leg or wings and sauté for 3 minutes, allowing them to develop some color.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the turkey to infuse the broth with flavor.
4. Add the collard greens to the pot, stirring well. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the greens are tender and the turkey is fully cooked.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, adjusting to taste.
6. Remove the turkey leg or wings, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Stir to combine, and serve hot.

Collard greens are the perfect side dish for New Year’s Day, and this version with smoked turkey is guaranteed to be a hit. The rich flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s not only delicious but also steeped in tradition. As the turkey infuses the greens with smokiness, the vinegar and sugar balance out the flavors, making every bite a savory delight. It’s the perfect way to ring in the New Year with a taste of Southern comfort.

Southern Black-Eyed Peas with Ham Hock

Black-eyed peas are a traditional dish believed to bring prosperity and good fortune in the New Year, and this Southern-style recipe with ham hocks takes the dish to a new level of deliciousness. The ham hocks provide a deep, smoky flavor, while the peas remain tender and flavorful. It’s a dish that pairs well with any main course and is perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
• 2 ham hocks
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp hot sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the ham hocks to the pot, searing them on all sides for about 4-5 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the black-eyed peas, bay leaf, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the peas simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the peas are tender and the ham hocks are falling off the bone.
5. Once the ham hocks are cooked, remove them from the pot. Shred the meat off the bone and return it to the pot. Discard the bones and bay leaf.
6. Taste and add salt and hot sauce, if desired. Stir well and serve hot.

Black-eyed peas with ham hock is more than just a dish—it’s a symbol of hope and good fortune for the New Year. The smoky ham hock imparts a rich depth of flavor to the peas, while the combination of spices and the creamy texture of the peas makes each bite comforting. This dish is a Southern staple that promises to bring both luck and joy to your New Year’s celebration. Serve it alongside your favorite meats or cornbread for the perfect soul food feast.

Southern Cornbread Dressing with Sausage

This Southern Cornbread Dressing is a beloved holiday staple, and it gets even better with the addition of savory sausage. It’s a comforting, flavorful side dish made with crumbled cornbread, a medley of vegetables, and spiced sausage, all baked to perfection. Perfect for family gatherings or a New Year’s feast, this cornbread dressing will become a crowd favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups crumbled cornbread (preferably day-old)
• 1 lb breakfast sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the butter and sauté the chopped onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, fresh herbs, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt and black pepper to taste.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth and beaten eggs. Pour this mixture over the cornbread mixture and stir gently until evenly combined.
6. Transfer the dressing to the greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
7. Serve hot alongside your favorite Southern dishes.

Southern Cornbread Dressing with Sausage is a rich, flavorful dish that adds heartiness to any meal. The crumbled cornbread soaks up all the savory juices from the sausage and broth, while the herbs and spices bring a comforting warmth to every bite. It’s the perfect accompaniment to your New Year’s meal and will bring a touch of Southern hospitality to your table. The combination of crispy edges and tender interior makes this dressing a true standout at any celebration.

New Year’s Day Fried Catfish with Hushpuppies

Nothing says Southern comfort like crispy, golden fried catfish served with a side of hushpuppies. A New Year’s Day favorite, this dish combines the tender, flaky goodness of catfish with a crunchy, flavorful coating. Paired with hushpuppies—deep-fried cornbread fritters—this meal brings together the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s a satisfying, hearty dish that’s perfect for ringing in the New Year with a delicious Southern flair.

Ingredients:

For the Fried Catfish:

• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

For the Hushpuppies:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

For the Fried Catfish:

1. In a shallow bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip each catfish fillet into the buttermilk, coating it well, and then dredge it in the seasoned cornmeal mixture. Press the coating into the fillet to ensure it sticks.
3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil reaches 350°F, carefully lower the catfish fillets into the hot oil.
4. Fry the fillets for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels.

For the Hushpuppies:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder.
2. Add the buttermilk and chopped onion, stirring until just combined (the batter should be thick).
3. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large skillet to 375°F. Using a spoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, frying the hushpuppies for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Fried catfish with hushpuppies is the epitome of Southern cuisine and a fantastic choice for New Year’s Day. The crispy, golden catfish offers a delightful contrast to the soft, savory hushpuppies, making for a meal that is both satisfying and full of flavor. The spices in the catfish batter, combined with the sweetness and crunch of the hushpuppies, create a balance that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve with coleslaw or fried okra for a truly Southern New Year’s feast.

New Year’s Day Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a soul food classic that makes a comforting, creamy side dish for any New Year’s Day meal. The combination of rich cheeses, elbow macaroni, and a golden-brown breadcrumb topping creates layers of flavor and texture that are sure to please. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it both delicious and convenient for holiday entertaining.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
• 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
4. Gradually add the heavy cream and milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Then, add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
6. Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.
7. Pour the macaroni and cheese into the prepared baking dish.
8. In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbling.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love at your New Year’s celebration. The creamy cheese sauce, combined with the al dente macaroni and crunchy breadcrumb topping, provides an irresistible mix of textures and flavors. The richness of the cheeses and the subtle kick of mustard and paprika take this dish to the next level, making it a standout side that will complement any main course. Serve this dish as part of your soul food spread, and it will quickly become a New Year’s tradition.

New Year’s Day Sweet Potato Pie

Sweet Potato Pie is a soul food favorite, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and spice with a silky-smooth filling. This version is packed with rich, warm flavors and is baked in a flaky, buttery crust for the ultimate dessert experience. Ideal for New Year’s Day, Sweet Potato Pie is a comforting treat that brings sweetness and tradition to your holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 2 large sweet potatoes)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ginger
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp butter, softened
• 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Peel and boil the sweet potatoes until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash them in a large bowl.
3. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, evaporated milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and butter to the mashed sweet potatoes. Mix until smooth and well-combined.
4. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the unbaked pie crust.
5. Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes, or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let the pie cool completely before slicing and serving.

Sweet Potato Pie is the perfect way to end a New Year’s meal with a burst of flavor and sweetness. The creamy, spiced filling nestled in a buttery, flaky crust creates a heavenly combination that is sure to delight. Each bite offers a comforting warmth, and the rich taste of the sweet potatoes paired with the aromatic spices makes this dessert a true Southern classic. It’s the perfect sweet finish to your holiday feast and a dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe.

New Year’s Day Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey

Collard greens are a cornerstone of Southern soul food, and this recipe makes them even more special by adding smoked turkey for a rich, savory depth of flavor. Stewed to perfection, these greens are tender and infused with the smoky goodness of turkey. Traditionally served on New Year’s Day, they symbolize prosperity and good fortune, making them an essential dish for your holiday table. The deep flavors and melt-in-your-mouth texture will make this a dish that guests will eagerly anticipate year after year.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
• 1 smoked turkey leg or turkey wings
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for sweetness)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the smoked turkey leg or wings to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes to allow the turkey to release its flavor.
3. Remove the turkey from the pot, shred the meat from the bone, and return the meat to the pot. Discard the bones.
4. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot, along with the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. Stir well to combine.
5. Cover the pot and cook the greens for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until they are tender and flavorful.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

These collard greens with smoked turkey are the perfect addition to any New Year’s meal. The tender greens absorb the smoky, savory flavors of the turkey, making each bite an explosion of taste. The slight acidity from the apple cider vinegar balances the richness, while the touch of sweetness from the optional sugar rounds out the dish. Traditionally believed to bring prosperity in the New Year, collard greens are more than just a side dish—they’re a symbol of good fortune and a comforting reminder of Southern culinary heritage.

New Year’s Day Southern Cornbread

Southern cornbread is a must-have for any soul food meal, and it’s especially important for New Year’s Day. The slightly sweet, tender crumb and golden crust make this cornbread irresistible. Whether you prefer it served alongside greens, in a stuffing, or just on its own with a dab of butter, this cornbread is a versatile and beloved dish. Made with simple ingredients, it’s quick to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your New Year’s gathering.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9-inch cast iron skillet or baking pan with butter or oil.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and vegetable oil.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour the batter into the prepared skillet or pan and spread it evenly.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cornbread to cool slightly before slicing and serving.

This Southern cornbread recipe is the perfect side to complement your New Year’s feast. Its sweet, crumbly texture and golden, crispy crust are the perfect balance for savory dishes like collard greens, fried chicken, or smoked meats. Whether served alongside your meal or enjoyed as a snack with butter, it’s a versatile dish that always satisfies. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the natural sweetness of the cornmeal to shine, making this cornbread a timeless addition to your holiday spread.

New Year’s Day Candied Yams

Candied yams are a soul food classic that brings sweetness and warmth to the New Year’s table. Baked in a rich syrup made of brown sugar, butter, and spices, these tender yams are caramelized to perfection, making them an irresistible side dish. The slight crunch of pecans on top adds a delightful contrast to the soft, sugary yams. A symbol of abundance and good fortune, candied yams are the perfect comfort food to share with family and friends as you welcome the New Year.

Ingredients:

• 4 large yams or sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup orange juice
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
• 1/4 cup marshmallows (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large baking dish, arrange the sliced yams in an even layer.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, orange juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the sugar dissolves.
4. Pour the syrup mixture over the yams, making sure the slices are evenly coated.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes, or until the yams are tender.
6. Remove the foil and add the chopped pecans on top of the yams. If using marshmallows, add them during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to allow them to melt and brown slightly.
7. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened and the yams are caramelized.

Candied yams are a sweet, indulgent dish that adds both flavor and festive cheer to your New Year’s celebration. The tender yams absorb the rich syrup, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience with each bite. The warm spices, buttery sweetness, and optional pecans or marshmallows elevate the dish, making it an unforgettable part of your holiday spread. Candied yams are not only delicious but also a symbol of abundance, making them a perfect dish to serve as you begin a new year full of hope and blessings.

New Year’s Day Fried Chicken

Fried chicken is a soul food staple that’s a must-have for any New Year’s celebration. Crispy, golden brown on the outside and tender on the inside, this fried chicken recipe is packed with flavor from a seasoned buttermilk marinade and a perfectly spiced coating. The process of deep frying ensures a crunch that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether served on its own or alongside traditional sides like collard greens or cornbread, fried chicken is always a crowd-pleaser and a dish full of tradition and joy.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings)
• 2 cups buttermilk
• 2 tbsp hot sauce
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and make sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Heat about 3 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade and dredge each piece in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
5. Carefully place the chicken in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry for about 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Drain the fried chicken on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

This fried chicken recipe delivers on all fronts: crispy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The buttermilk marinade ensures each piece is juicy and tender, while the seasoned flour coating gives it the perfect crunch. It’s the ideal dish for ringing in the New Year with family and friends, offering the comfort and warmth that soul food is known for. Fried chicken is more than just a meal—it’s a tradition that brings people together, and this recipe is sure to become a favorite for years to come.

New Year’s Day Black-Eyed Peas

Black-eyed peas are another soul food essential for New Year’s Day. Known for their association with good luck and prosperity, these beans are often prepared with savory flavors and a hearty, comforting texture. This recipe incorporates smoked ham hocks for an added richness and depth of flavor, making the black-eyed peas a perfect side dish or a standalone meal. The delicious broth that results from slow simmering becomes the perfect base for these lucky legumes, ensuring you start the year off with abundance and joy.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried black-eyed peas, rinsed and sorted
• 1 smoked ham hock or ham bone
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp thyme
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the smoked ham hock or ham bone to the pot along with the bay leaf, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Add the black-eyed peas to the pot, cover, and cook for another 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the peas are tender and the broth has thickened. Add more broth or water if necessary.
5. Remove the ham hock from the pot, shred the meat, and return it to the peas. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, if needed.
6. Serve the black-eyed peas hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

These black-eyed peas are not only delicious but also symbolize good luck for the New Year. The combination of tender peas, smoky ham, and savory spices creates a dish that is full of flavor and comfort. Whether you serve them with cornbread or over rice, black-eyed peas are a hearty and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. As you enjoy this Southern tradition, it’s a reminder that food has the power to bring both nourishment and positive energy into the New Year.

New Year’s Day Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and grits is a Southern classic that perfectly blends the flavors of the sea with the warmth of creamy, buttery grits. It’s an ideal dish for a New Year’s Day celebration, offering a hearty yet light meal that feels both luxurious and comforting. The shrimp is sautéed in a savory, garlic-infused sauce, while the grits are rich and creamy, creating a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or any time you want to indulge in a taste of Southern hospitality.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup stone-ground grits
• 4 cups water or chicken broth (for grits)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. For the grits: In a medium pot, bring 4 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the grits are tender.
2. Stir in the butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, continuing to cook until creamy and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Keep warm.
3. For the shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are cooked through.
5. Sprinkle the smoked paprika and cayenne pepper over the shrimp, and stir to coat. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. To serve, spoon a generous portion of grits onto each plate and top with the shrimp. Garnish with chopped green onions.

Shrimp and grits is a flavorful and indulgent dish that’s sure to make your New Year’s celebration feel special. The creamy, cheesy grits pair perfectly with the savory, tender shrimp, creating a delightful contrast of textures. With the warmth of garlic and smoked paprika, each bite is packed with comforting flavors that will leave everyone satisfied. This dish brings together the best of Southern cuisine, making it the perfect way to start the year off right—full of flavor and good fortune.

New Year’s Day Collard Greens

Collard greens are a Southern New Year’s tradition, often served as a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. Slow-cooked until tender, these greens are packed with flavor, thanks to the addition of smoked ham hocks, onions, and garlic. The rich, savory broth that forms from the slow cooking process makes for a perfect base, and the collards soak up all those delicious flavors. Whether served with cornbread or over rice, this dish is comforting and flavorful, making it an essential part of any New Year’s Day meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs fresh collard greens, washed and chopped
• 1 smoked ham hock or ham bone
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the smoked ham hock or ham bone, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
3. Add the chopped collard greens to the pot and stir. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the collards are tender and the broth is flavorful.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If the greens are too bitter, add a bit more sugar or vinegar to balance the flavors.
5. Serve the collard greens hot, either as a side dish or over a bed of rice.

Collard greens are a quintessential New Year’s dish, steeped in tradition and packed with flavor. The slow cooking process brings out the natural earthiness of the greens, while the ham hock imparts a smoky richness that makes the broth so savory. Whether enjoyed with cornbread or as a hearty side, these greens are not only delicious but also carry the sentiment of prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead. This dish is an essential part of a soul food feast that brings warmth and abundance to any New Year’s gathering.

New Year’s Day Candied Yams

Candied yams are a soul food favorite, offering a sweet and comforting side dish that’s perfect for New Year’s Day. This recipe turns sweet potatoes into a glazed, caramelized delight with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a touch of vanilla. The result is a dish that’s rich in flavor, tender in texture, and with just the right amount of sweetness to balance the savory items on your plate. Candied yams add both color and flavor to your New Year’s celebration and are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, bring the sweet potato slices to a boil in water. Cook for about 8-10 minutes, just until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain the sweet potatoes and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, salt, water, and orange juice. Stir and bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 5 minutes.
4. In a large baking dish, layer the sweet potatoes and pour the sugar mixture over the top. Use a spoon to coat the potatoes evenly.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes, basting the sweet potatoes halfway through with the syrup in the pan.
6. After 45 minutes, uncover the dish, sprinkle the pecans (if using) on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the yams are caramelized and tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional pecans if desired.

Candied yams are a sweet, flavorful dish that captures the essence of soul food. The buttery glaze combined with the warm spices creates a perfect balance of sweetness, while the tender sweet potatoes soak up the syrupy goodness. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that adds a touch of indulgence to your New Year’s celebration. Whether you serve them alongside fried chicken, collard greens, or cornbread, candied yams will always be the star of the show at any holiday feast, filling the room with both comfort and warmth.

New Year’s Day Cornbread

Cornbread is an essential soul food dish that brings comfort and flavor to any New Year’s Day meal. This recipe results in a golden, slightly sweet cornbread that’s crispy on the edges and soft in the middle. It pairs perfectly with greens, beans, or as a side to fried chicken. With just a handful of ingredients, cornbread can be easily made from scratch and is the perfect addition to any holiday spread. Its simplicity and satisfying texture make it a timeless dish in Southern cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cornmeal
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a 9×9-inch square baking dish or cast-iron skillet with butter or cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vegetable oil until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish or skillet and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cornbread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Let the cornbread cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving.

Cornbread is a must-have for any soul food meal, especially on New Year’s Day. This recipe creates a light, fluffy cornbread with the perfect balance of sweetness and savory flavor. The golden crust and tender crumb make it a versatile dish that complements everything from collard greens to fried chicken. Cornbread is not only a delicious accompaniment but also a symbol of home-cooked comfort and Southern tradition. It’s the perfect way to round out your New Year’s feast and share good food and good fortune with those you love.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!