November is Native American Heritage Month. Not only can we use this time to learn more about Native American heritage and traditions, but we can also explore all of the different aspects of their culture that are still found in our everyday lives, especially in the nutritious foods that have become a staple part of our diet.
- The Three Sisters – Corns, Beans, and Squash
The Three Sisters were the backbone of Native American diets, so it was common to grow these crops together. Though different tribes had their own take on how to prepare corns, beans, and squash, they were always used in a variety of dishes. We can still see the “three sisters” in the meals that we eat today, particularly as side dishes to accompany a main entrée.
- Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes were another staple in the Native American diet, since they’re rich in complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and micronutrients. Today, sweet potatoes are most commonly consumed as a healthier alternative to potatoes, since they’re a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Quinoa
And of course, we can’t forget quinoa. Although quinoa has been trendy in recent years as a “superfood,” it was always one of the main grain sources in the Native American diet, since it has ample amounts of nutrients and contains high levels of protein. Some tribes even toasted and ground up the quinoa seeds in order to make bread.
Native Americans had developed such a wide variety of nutritious foods, and it is amazing to see how this aspect of their culture has transcended through time. Though these foods are now likely prepared differently, it is still important to note the influence the Native American community has on modern civilization.
Sources:
https://www.powwows.com/native-american-foods-throughout-the-united-states/
https://www.aaanativearts.com/what-native-american-foods-do-we-eat-today
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2352618116300750