Hello Everyone,
What were the "slave foods" that our folk were allowed to eat, that remain a part of our diet today?
I know that chitterlings were and I'm imagining pig's feet would fit on this list too. I was surprised, shocked even, to learn that turnip and collard greens were "slave foods." I have heard in some countries today, they only feed greens to their animals because they are so bitter and tough (guess it takes a good cook to make those greens taste so good).
As I think back, I remember those big, white buckets of lard. While I've not seen any in many years, I'd imagine they are still being bought and sold. Surely that's got to be a "slave food." What exactly was lard anyway?! A less refined cooking oil? I know that's how it was used ... but uuhhhh ... what was that stuff?
I did mention pig feet above, and it seems we had access to all the undesirable parts of this animal. Even today, pork rinds (that's the skin of the pig, right?) are very popular snacks. I understand there is even a microwave version available today.
Other than the above, I can't think of any other foods that were primarily given to slaves (and we still eat today).
Do you know any?
Also, what is the story on watermelon? Surely we weren't the only ones eating this sweet, juicy summer fruit. Why is it often used to refer to black folk in a negative way?
There has been much debate regarding our general health and how it is linked to these foods and our choice to continue eating them. Your comments regarding this are welcome too.
Destee
What were the "slave foods" that our folk were allowed to eat, that remain a part of our diet today?
I know that chitterlings were and I'm imagining pig's feet would fit on this list too. I was surprised, shocked even, to learn that turnip and collard greens were "slave foods." I have heard in some countries today, they only feed greens to their animals because they are so bitter and tough (guess it takes a good cook to make those greens taste so good).
As I think back, I remember those big, white buckets of lard. While I've not seen any in many years, I'd imagine they are still being bought and sold. Surely that's got to be a "slave food." What exactly was lard anyway?! A less refined cooking oil? I know that's how it was used ... but uuhhhh ... what was that stuff?
I did mention pig feet above, and it seems we had access to all the undesirable parts of this animal. Even today, pork rinds (that's the skin of the pig, right?) are very popular snacks. I understand there is even a microwave version available today.
Other than the above, I can't think of any other foods that were primarily given to slaves (and we still eat today).
Do you know any?
Also, what is the story on watermelon? Surely we weren't the only ones eating this sweet, juicy summer fruit. Why is it often used to refer to black folk in a negative way?
There has been much debate regarding our general health and how it is linked to these foods and our choice to continue eating them. Your comments regarding this are welcome too.
Destee