Summer in Memphis is a time of sunshine, warmth, and bountiful harvests.
As the temperatures rise, so does the number of delicious, healthy fruits and vegetables that are available in the area. Not only are these seasonal foods packed with daily, vital nutrients but they are also culturally significant, especially in the African-American community. One of the most beloved summertime fruits (and my personal favorite) in the Bluff is watermelon. Watermelon is thought to have originated in West Africa and was brought to North America by enslaved Africans. It quickly became a staple crop throughout the South and has been an important part of African-American foodways ever since. In the 20th century, watermelon was even used as a symbol of black self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship, with many black farmers cultivating the fruit for local markets.
In addition to watermelon, The Bluff also hosts a wide variety of other seasonal fruits and vegetables. Peaches (my second favorite) are in abundance during the summer months and are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Blackberries, which are native to the region, and blueberries, which have been cultivated in the South for centuries, are also plentiful during the summer. Blackberries & Blueberries are packed with antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients. Strawberries & Raspberries are also in the mix for providing vital nutrients to the body and overall health. When it comes to vegetables, Summer in the Bluff, means plenty of okra, corn, tomatoes, and squash. Okra is a staple food in many African cultures, and was also introduced to North America by enslaved Africans. In Memphis & many African-American homes, okra can often be seen prepared fried along with some fried fish and slaw for Fish Fry Fridays or you can partake in its essence in gumbo. Corn, which is one of the oldest cultivated crops in the world, was also a staple food in many African cultures. In the South, it is often served as cornbread or used as a thickener in soups/stews. Tomatoes, which are technically considered a fruit, are a mainstay in Southern cuisine. They are especially tasty and nutritious when they are in season and can be used in everything from salads to sauces. Squash, which comes in a variety of varieties including yellow squash, zucchini, and pattypan, is also abundant during the summer months. It is a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, and can be grilled or roasted for a tasty summer side dish.
In addition to being delicious and healthy, these seasonal fruits and vegetables are also historically significant for the African-American community. For centuries, black farmers/gardeners have cultivated these crops for food and for sale, often in the face of discrimination and oppression. So, as you enjoy the bounty of Summer in the Bluff, take a moment to appreciate the rich cultural heritage that is embodied in these seasonal foods. Whether it's a slice of watermelon on a hot day, a peach cobbler at the family reunion, or a fried fish plate w/fried okra on Fridays, these foods are a reminder of the resilience, creativity, and strength of the African-American community.
