As we celebrate Juneteenth, a holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, we’re reminded of the rich cultural heritage and traditions that have been passed down through generations. And what better way to honor this momentous occasion than with a table full of delicious, soulful dishes? In this special edition, we’re sharing 18 recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic BBQ ribs to sweet and tangy baked beans, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re looking for comfort food, bold flavors, or just something new to try, these Juneteenth recipes have it all. And the best part? They’re all deeply rooted in African American tradition and culture. So gather ’round with family and friends, and let’s get cooking!
Smoky BBQ Ribs with Homemade Dry Rub
A classic American favorite gets a boost from our easy-to-make homemade dry rub and slow-cooked to tender perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 lbs)
– 1/2 cup homemade dry rub (see below)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup beer (optional)
Homemade Dry Rub:
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker or grill to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together dry rub ingredients.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs (optional).
4. Apply homemade dry rub evenly to both sides of the ribs.
5. Place ribs in smoker or grill, bone-side down.
6. Close lid and smoke for 4 hours, or until tender.
7. Brush with BBQ sauce during last 15 minutes of cooking.
8. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Southern Fried Chicken with Buttermilk Marinade
A classic Southern favorite gets a tangy twist with this buttermilk-based marinade, resulting in crispy and juicy fried chicken that’s sure to please. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 tsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
5. Dredge the chicken pieces in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Fry the chicken in batches until golden brown and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes per batch.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Classic Collard Greens with Smoked Turkey
A Southern staple gets a boost from smoky turkey, adding depth and flavor to this comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen collard greens, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 teaspoons salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 slices smoked turkey breast, diced
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped collard greens, chicken broth, water, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the greens are tender.
6. Stir in the diced smoked turkey breast.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Baked Beans with Bacon
Sweet and Tangy Baked Beans with Bacon Recipe
Transform your classic baked beans into a sweet and tangy sensation by adding crispy bacon and a hint of brown sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or baking dish, combine soaked beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and salt.
3. Stir well to combine.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 6 hours, or until the beans are tender.
5. Remove the foil and stir in crumbled bacon.
6. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 6.5 hours
Fluffy Buttermilk Biscuits with Honey Butter
These buttery biscuits are a classic Southern delight, perfect for breakfast or as a side to your favorite meals. With the added sweetness of honey butter, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup buttermilk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Stir in buttermilk until dough comes together in a shaggy mass.
5. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and gently knead 2-3 times until smooth.
6. Roll dough to 1-inch thickness and use biscuit cutter or glass to cut out biscuits.
7. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
– Mix 2 tablespoons softened butter with 1 tablespoon honey in a small bowl.
– Spread or brush onto warm biscuits while still slightly soft.
Rich and Creamy Mac and Cheese
Rich and Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this rich and creamy macaroni and cheese recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its velvety sauce and al dente pasta, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Grits
This classic Southern dish gets a bold boost from the spicy kick of cayenne pepper and the smoky heat of Andouille sausage. Serve it up with some crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook grits according to package instructions. Stir in butter until melted.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 3 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cayenne pepper; cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve shrimp mixture over grits.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Sandwiches
This recipe yields tender, flavorful pulled pork with a tangy BBQ twist, perfect for sandwiches or serving as a main course. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this slow-cooked dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 hamburger buns
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the slow cooker and pour in the BBQ sauce.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the pork from the slow cooker and use two forks to pull it apart into shreds.
7. Split the hamburger buns in half and spoon the pulled pork onto each bun.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Golden Cornbread with a Crispy Crust
Elevate your cornbread game with this simple recipe that yields a moist and flavorful golden loaf topped with a crispy, buttery crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter. Add honey and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Pour batter into prepared dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Succulent Peach Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream
A classic summer dessert gets a sweet twist with this succulent peach cobbler, served warm and topped with creamy vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh peaches, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Vanilla ice cream (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced peaches, granulated sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour melted butter over the peach mixture and mix until coated.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet ingredients over the peach mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the cobbler is golden brown and bubbly.
8. Serve warm with scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Red Velvet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Experience the rich flavors of a classic Southern dessert with this moist and decadent red velvet cake, paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon red food coloring
For the frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cocoa powder and milk. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth. Add food coloring and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
7. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes (including cooling time)
Savory Black-Eyed Pea Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional black-eyed pea dishes, this savory salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for your next gathering. With its blend of textures and flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black-eyed peas
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine black-eyed peas, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. If using feta cheese, crumble it into the mixture.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (includes cooking time for black-eyed peas if using canned)
Jamaican Jerk Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
Savor the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering combination of spicy jerk chicken and sweet pineapple salsa. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
For the chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp olive oil
For the pineapple salsa:
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine pineapple chunks, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve jerk chicken with pineapple salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Sweet Tea with Fresh Mint
A refreshing twist on classic sweet tea, this recipe combines the warmth of black tea with the cooling essence of fresh mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 quart water
– 4 black tea bags (such as Luzianne or Lipton)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add the tea bags and let steep for 3-5 minutes, or until the tea reaches your desired strength.
3. Remove the tea bags and add the sugar. Stir until dissolved.
4. Add the fresh mint leaves to the tea and let it steep for an additional 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea into a large pitcher or jug to remove the mint leaves.
6. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
7. Serve the sweet tea over ice cubes, garnished with additional fresh mint leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fried Catfish with Spicy Remoulade Sauce
Elevate your catfish game with this Southern-inspired recipe that combines crispy fried fish with a tangy and spicy remoulade sauce.
Ingredients:
For the catfish:
– 4 catfish fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
For the remoulade sauce:
– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp ketchup
– 1 tbsp prepared horseradish
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
2. Dip catfish fillets in the flour mixture, coating evenly.
3. Fry catfish in hot oil (375°F) for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
4. Drain on paper towels.
5. For the remoulade sauce, mix all ingredients together and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve fried catfish with spicy remoulade sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Okra and Tomatoes Stewed in Garlic Butter
A flavorful and comforting Southern-inspired dish that combines the tender goodness of okra with the sweetness of tomatoes, all wrapped up in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh okra, sliced
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
2. Add the sliced okra and cook until tender, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until they release their juices and the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
6. Serve hot over rice, cornbread, or crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Hot Water Cornbread with Scallions
A twist on traditional cornbread, this recipe uses hot water instead of butter or oil to create a moist and flavorful loaf. Perfect for a rustic breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup hot water (not boiling)
– 1 large scallion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add hot water to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The mixture should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Fold in scallions.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. If using, drizzle with honey or maple syrup.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Strawberry Lemonade with Basil Infusion
Elevate your summer drinks game with this refreshing twist on classic strawberry lemonade. The subtle sweetness of strawberries and the brightness of lemon are perfectly balanced by the herbaceousness of basil, creating a unique and delightful flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup sugar
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. In a large pitcher, combine sliced strawberries and sugar. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their natural sweetness.
2. Add lemon juice and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
3. Add water and stir well.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and let it infuse for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator before serving over ice.
Cooking Time: None
Servings: 6-8
Summary
Get ready to celebrate Juneteenth with these soulful and deliciously traditional recipes! From classic BBQ ribs and fried chicken to sweet treats like peach cobbler and red velvet cake, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include creamy mac and cheese, spicy Cajun shrimp and grits, and savory black-eyed pea salad. And don’t forget the drinks – homemade sweet tea with fresh mint and strawberry lemonade with basil infusion are perfect for sipping on a warm day. These 18 recipes will help you create a Juneteenth celebration to remember.
