Cha Cha

Southern Cuisine/Soul Food still dominates the culinary scene when it comes to character and reputation. No other style of cooking that I’m aware of is associated with fullness, comfort, and family. Yes, the fried stuff is bad for you. But some soul food has health benefits. For instance, let’s take succotash. Succotash consists of stewed tomatoes, corn and okra. Tomatoes are extremely high in vitamin C and Lycopene; two important nutrients that help prevent cancer. The list for okra is endless. Fiber found in okra helps to stabilize the blood sugar by curbing the rate at which sugar is absorbed from the intestinal tract.
Okra's mucilage binds cholesterol and bile acid carrying toxins dumped into it by the filtering liver, helps lubricate the large intestines due to its bulk laxative qualities. Okra fiber absorbs water and ensures bulk in stools. This helps prevent and improve constipation. Unlike harsh wheat bran, which can irritate or injure the intestinal tract, okra's mucilage soothes, and okra facilitates elimination more comfortably by its slippery characteristic. ( the herb Slippery Elm has the same affect). Okra binds excess cholesterol and toxins (in bile acids). These, if not evacuated, will cause numerous health problems. Okra also assures easy passage out of waste from the body. Okra fiber is excellent for feeding the good bacteria (probiotics). This contributes to the health of the intestinal tract.
Okra is used for healing ulcers and to keep joints limber. It helps to neutralize acids,
being very alkaline, and provides a temporary protective coating for the digestive tract.
Corn is extremely high in fiber and contains Vitamin C and folic acid. One can’t go wrong with that.
So back to the Cha Cha. Cha Cha is what salsa is to Mexican Food or Shittoh is to Ghanian Food. It's a type of relish that can be spicy or mild made from green tomatoes, cabbage, and sweet peppers. There are slight variations in the recipes. I had the opportunity of sampling some of my cousin's homemade Cha Cha and it was absolutely delicious ( pictured above) Cha Cha can be added to coleslaw, beans, salads, casseroles, etc. Actually, it can be added to just about anything, if you’re feeling adventurous.


My cousin Shari also cans fruits and vegetables. Our great grand parents used to practice the art of canning as well, Check out her cabinet. Read about the history of canning here.