Juneteenth
This year, June 19th will be honored and recognized nationally as an independence holiday in America; however, the Black community will continue their tradition of remembering this day because of the history that lies behind this date. June 19th, commonly referred to as Juneteenth, is a historical moment in history and is the day enslaved African Americans from Galveston, Texas, received news of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, which represented freedom to our culture. On this day in 1865, Union soldiers arrived back from the American Civil War and shared the news of the freeing of blacks. Ever since this day, blacks have been able to celebrate and honor our freedom in a way many of us enjoy doing; cooking, hosting, and being with loved ones.
This year, June 19th will be honored and recognized nationally as an independence holiday in America; however, the Black community will continue their tradition of remembering this day because of the history that lies behind this date. June 19th, commonly referred to as Juneteenth, is a historical moment in history and is the day enslaved African Americans from Galveston, Texas, received news of the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, which represented freedom to our culture. On this day in 1865, Union soldiers arrived back from the American Civil War and shared the news of the freeing of blacks. Ever since this day, blacks have been able to celebrate and honor our freedom in a way many of us enjoy doing; cooking, hosting, and being with loved ones.
As southern natives, we already have traditions for this day, and if you are looking for a new tradition to start celebrating Juneteenth, family-style dinner is the way to go. This year Juneteenth lands on a Sunday, a day we usually spend in church and enjoying a home-cooked meal right after. You can curate a full dinner menu with the help of these tips from two Black Southern Belles; Chef Gina Capers Willis and Chef Rashaunda Grant.
Juneteenth Celebration
Chef Rashaunda, owner of The Carolina Cookery, and Chef Gina, owner of What’s Gina Cooking and lifestyle brand The Low Country Bohemian, have shared a Juneteenth celebration dinner menu list with Black Southern Belle inspired by Watermelon and Red Birds: A Cookbook for Juneteenth and Black Celebrations by Nicole A. Taylor.
Pork Ribs with BBQ Sauce Flight, Crab & Egg Salad, Hibiscus Tea / Afro Egg Cream
Meatless Baked Beans, Beer-Battered Shrimp, Strawberry Lemonade
If you are still looking for a dinner decision for Juneteenth, prepare to get hungry! We’ve selected a couple mouthwatering menu ideas from both Chef Rashaunda & Chef Gina’s Juneteenth menu.
MENU
Pork Ribs with BBQ Sauce Flight
Chef Rashaunda knows that “it’s not summer without ribs.” This summer; especially for Juneteenth, let’s all ensure we have our grill hot, sizzling, and prepared for these tender pork ribs. While the beans are coming to a slight boil on the stovetop or in the oven these ribs should be ready to pull off and glazed with one of three barbecue sauces curated for this dish. Pork is a great option as it’s a prosperity food that represents good luck.
Meatless Baked Beans
This vegan recipe selected by Chef Gina is an ideal option and can be a favorite for all guests. Even though some Black Southern Belles have proven that seasoning meats adds flavor, this dish is still as delicious without the heartiness of beef, pork, or turkey. Make a fluffy pot of rice, “Carolina Gold” as we call it in the South, and add this dish right on top to start your dinner plate.
Strawberry Lemonade
Stay hydrated with homemade flavors by enjoying a cup of this refreshing recipe. This summer beverage is perfect for when life gives you lemons and strawberries. Let this beverage be the sweetness you need and quince of thirst after this Juneteenth southern dinner menu.
DECOR
Now that you have Sunday supper menu fit for a Juneteenth celebration, be sure to plan your decor, which is just as important for your celebration. We know that decor can truly be placed in a setting without traveling outside of your hometown. Whether it’s experiencing a Juneteenth parade hosted by a Southern state and/or Black-owned decor from locals; special touches are important. Chef Gina shared with Black Southern Belle; that it is a necessity to add “special touches so when people come by they know they are being treated special and know that it is something to sit at my table and to share a meal with me.” Therefore, on this day as we flashback to history, it is key to have different little things to make the tablescape pop. Try adding candles, hometown staple items, pops of color that represent our culture, and statement pieces; from the “The Low Country Bohemian” to stir conversation.
Comments
