Almost all families have favorite recipes that must be prepared exactly the way a legendary relative made them — or else. For many Black families, traditional dishes like collard greens, sweet potatoes, cornbread dressing, baked chicken or turkey, roast beef, candied yams, and green beans carry deep emotional weight and cultural history.
But grocery costs have increased in 2025, and the cost of eating out has risen even more. Add in the uncertainty around Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits and the effects of massive layoffs, and it’s likely cooks nationwide are looking for ways to create menus that stretch every dollar.
The good news? With a little planning, it’s possible to serve satisfying meals that honor Black culinary traditions and stay on budget.
1. Fab Food on a Budget Is Part of the Culture
Many traditional holiday foods are widely recognized as soul food. But many dishes that started out as “cheap eats” have become popular — and relatively expensive. Too many Black Americans also live in food deserts and have limited access to fresh ingredients. Still, cost-saving cooking techniques can help save money, deliver bold flavor, and remain wholesome.
Collard greens
A cornerstone of Black holiday cooking, collards are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, fiber, and calcium. Buying them fresh in bundles is often cheaper than purchasing bagged versions. Simmering greens with smoked turkey instead of pork offers a lighter, heart-healthy alternative, though low-cost cuts of pork may still be worth a holiday splurge.
Sweet potatoes
Naturally sweet and rich in beta carotene, B vitamins, potassium, and fiber, sweet potatoes remain one of the best values in any grocery store. Those seeking a lower-sugar option can skip candied versions and instead roast them with cinnamon and other spices, add a drizzle of maple syrup, and finish with a touch of butter.
Black-eyed peas
Long linked to prosperity and good fortune, black-eyed peas provide plant-based protein, iron, and complex carbohydrates. Using dried peas instead of canned can cut costs by more than half. Cook them with onions, garlic, thyme, and a small smoked turkey drumstick for depth without overspending.
2. Build a Protein Strategy That Feeds a Crowd
Meat prices remain high, so choosing the right proteins can make or break a holiday budget. Fortunately, many African American holiday staples emphasize flavor over expensive cuts.
Baked or roasted chicken
Whole chickens or family-sized packs of thighs are often far more affordable than turkey or beef. Season generously with paprika, garlic, thyme, and a hint of brown sugar to capture the warmth of traditional holiday roasts. Chicken is high in lean protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals — especially when baked rather than fried.
Catfish or whiting
Fish fries are a beloved part of Black culinary culture. Catfish and whiting remain among the most affordable fish options and are rich in protein and healthy fats. Oven-frying with a cornmeal crust reduces oil without sacrificing crunch.
3. Round Out the Meal With Low-Cost Sides
Sides are where holiday meals shine — and where the biggest savings can be found.
Cornbread dressing
A holiday essential, cornbread is inexpensive to make. Cornbread dressing provides carbohydrates for energy and is a natural crowd-pleaser that stretches easily to feed large families.
Green beans
Whether stewed or sautéed, green beans are highly nutritious, offering vitamin C, fiber, and folate. Fresh or frozen versions typically contain less sodium and deliver better flavor.
Cabbage
And don’t sleep on cabbage. It’s one of the lowest-cost vegetables year-round and is packed with vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants.
4. Shop Smart for Seasonings
While seasonings have gone gourmet, there’s no need to break the bank to bring the flavor. Store-brand spices often cost less and taste nearly identical to premium versions. Buying produce in bulk at farmers’ markets, discount grocers, or food banks can also cut costs. Cooking greens, peas, or dressing with broth made from leftover chicken or turkey parts remains a tried-and-true technique.
Black holiday cooking has always been rooted in creativity, community, and making magic from humble ingredients. By choosing budget-friendly proteins and being generous with seasonings, families can enjoy a holiday meal that’s soulful, affordable, and nourishing.
This story originally appeared here.