Book titled 'American Soul: The Black History of Food in the United States' by Anela Malik, featuring 40 recipes with colorful illustrations of vegetables and stars on the cover.

American Soul

The Black History of Food in the United States

by Anela Malik

Published by National Geographic

Anela Malik signing a book titled 'American Soul' with a black Sharpie marker. She is wearing a patterned blouse, a gold watch, and has decorated nails. The book is open on a table, with other colorful books stacked underneath.

Buy on Bookshop

Buy at a Black-owned bookstore

…or at your favorite independent shop!

Photo by Confident Studios

Because Black food is American food.

Often treated as regional, niche, or “ethnic,” Black foodways are foundational to how America eats. This book traces those roots across the country, connecting history, place, and people to show how food has always been a tool for survival, creativity, and community.

Through stunning photography and thoughtful storytelling, American Soul documents what Black communities have built, what they’ve passed down, and how their influence continues to shape American culture today. 

  • "This book is a gift to our culture."

  • "This book is beautiful. It should be in every Black home. It reminds me that we truly are one. When we look at all the similarities across the states and the globe, it makes me feel seen. It makes me feel loved. It reminds me of home."

  • "Such a thoughtful and thorough history of Black food. The art and photos are stunning. I was moved more than I expected and am already sharing this book with others."

  • "Every detail was thoughtfully executed. We're thrilled with the outcome."

Anela Malik with short curly hair, wearing a white shirt, gold hoop earrings, a watch, and bracelets, is sitting at a table with copies of her book, holding a black marker, in an indoor setting.

Photo by Confident Studios

About the Author

A former U.S. diplomat turned creator, Anela Malik brings a global lens to deeply personal stories about identity, belonging, and what we build together.

American Soul is ideal for

  • Universities and academic institutions

  • Cultural organizations and museums

  • Food festivals and culinary conferences

  • Corporate and community events exploring culture, history, and identity

Anela is available to speak on Black food history, storytelling as cultural preservation, and the role of food in shaping identity.

For media inquiries or to invite Anela to speak, email contact@feedthemalik.com