Juneteenth, or June 19, is a festival celebrated to commemorate freedom and the abolishment of slavery. A significant day in African-American history, this day marks the end of slavery in the United States. Also known as Freedom Day, this celebration is considered the longest-running African-American holiday and has been deemed America’s second Independence Day. Like most celebrations in the US, food plays a vital role in Juneteenth. Many of the most classic Juneteenth dishes are also the most symbolic. To honour and celebrate the historic day of Juneteenth 2024, we bring you delicious recipes of Juneteenth traditional food and drinks. From barbeque chicken to fresh strawberry soda, these Juneteenth recipes will make the holiday even more memorable.

The celebration of Juneteenth takes place with prayer gatherings, spiritual singing, new clothing, and the preparation of traditional food items to symbolise freedom. The traditions usually consist of red food, which signifies sacrifice, power and resilience. Additionally, Juneteenth is the best time to get summer fruits like watermelon and strawberries. Therefore, Strawberry soda and hibiscus tea are typical red drinks served during Juneteenth festivities, along with the famous red velvet cake and barbecue, among other dishes. To celebrate this festival of freedom, we have created a list of Juneteenth recipes, from barbeque chicken to strawberry soda and the all-time favourite red velvet cake; here are a few recipes you need to try to celebrate the US federal holiday.

Barbeque Chicken

Barbeque Chicken is one of the most cooked delicacies to celebrate Juneteenth. Barbecue usually includes grilled meats like ribs, chicken, and sausages cooked slowly over a fire or hot coals.

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Nashville Hot Chicken

Originated in Nashville, Tennessee, the recipe involves marinating chicken in a spicy seasoning, frying it until crispy, and then coating it with a fiery, cayenne pepper-based sauce. This dish is typically served with pickles and white bread to balance the heat.

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Hibiscus Iced Tea

Hibiscus iced tea is a drink enjoyed during Juneteenth celebrations. It’s made by steeping dried hibiscus flowers in water, which gives it a vibrant red colour. Sweetened with sugar or honey and sometimes flavoured with citruses like lemon or lime, it’s refreshing and symbolic of the holiday’s joyful spirit.

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Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken

Jamaican Brown Stew Chicken is typically includes marinating chicken in a mix of spices, browning it, and then simmering it with vegetables, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers to create a savory and spicy stew. This dish is a staple in Jamaican cuisine, enjoyed for its hearty and aromatic flavors and is a perfect dish for Juneteenth 2024.

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Strawberry Soda

Strawberry soda is a refreshing drink often enjoyed during Juneteenth celebrations. Its vibrant red colour symbolizes the strength of African-Americans and commemorates the joyous occasion of freedom. Sharing strawberry soda with loved ones on Juneteenth honours traditions and fosters a sense of unity and celebration.

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Red Velvet Cake

Juneteenth celebrations are incomplete without traditional red velvet cakes. This dessert is a sweet reminder of the struggles and triumphs in African-American history. This delicious cake combines the flavours of chocolate and vanilla with a hint of tanginess, topped with cream cheese frosting.

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The festival that marks the end of slavery needs to be rejoiced. So this Juneteenth 2024, let’s celebrate freedom with these simple, traditional and mouthwatering delicacies. Wishing everyone a very Happy Juneteenth.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 18, 2024 05:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).