From barbecue to biscuits, the South is known for its comfort cuisine, which is steeped in tradition and history. However, this region of the country is diverse, and many people make the mistake of confusing traditional Southern food with soul food. While both cuisines have their similarities, there are a few key differences between the two.

The History of Soul Food

Soul food refers to a type of Southern cuisine with African American roots and Native American influences. However, the actual term “soul food” didn’t come about until the 1960s. During slavery, plantation owners gave slaves the cuts of animals and vegetables that they didn’t want. This included vegetables like beets, kale, and turnip greens, and meats, such as pigs feet, pig skins, and oxtails. They were also given packs of cornbread. Some of the major soul food dishes include cornbread, grits, BBQ ribs, and fried chicken. 

Soul Food vs. Southern Food Dishes

There are a number of distinctions between soul food and classic Southern food. The former is made with a lot of seasoning, and there is no exact recipe. Dishes such as blackened chicken or catfish are covered in a heavy amount of seasoning and then fried in a hot pan. Southern biscuits and cornbread are round, while soul food bread is square-shaped. Another key characteristic of soul food is that it is fried in leftover grease from other dishes, while Southern dishes use vegetable and canola oil. 

If you’re in the mood for some delicious, authentic soul food, stop by Buzzard Billy's, the premier Cajun restaurant in Lincoln, NE. Their menu specializes in New Orleans soul food, with a wide variety of specialties including blackened chicken, catfish, and shrimp. They also serve classic American cuisine including steaks, burgers, and soups. They have a full-service bar with a daily happy hour. Call (402) 475-8822 to speak with one of their friendly staff members, or visit them online to browse their extensive menu and daily happy hour specials.