6 Meaningful Recipes That Tell the Story of Juneteenth

In June 1865, news of liberation finally reached nearly 250,000 enslaved Black people of African descent in Galveston, Texas—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect. From the earliest Juneteenth celebrations to today, food has remained a central theme in honoring that day of freedom. Red foods serve as a poignant reminder of the violence enslaved African and Black people endured. Other traditional soul foods, such as cornbread and collard greens, symbolize strength, freedom, and prosperity.

For Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, meals are often prepared in the community, bringing family and friends together for reflection, reclamation, and tradition. Whether eaten at a picnic, barbecue, or around the dinner table, food not only brings people together but also sparks necessary conversations. In the case of Juneteenth, food bridges the past and present—from what freedom meant in 1865 to why remembering that history still matters today.

Food also has a way of revealing cultural nuances, especially in how it’s prepared—no two recipes are exactly the same. My Juneteenth strawberry pie’s origin story may differ from someone else’s: I may have created my own, while someone else might follow a recipe passed down for generations. Just as storytellers are the keepers of our collective narrative, recipes are the keepers of our shared history.

Children’s books, in particular, have become powerful vehicles for cultural education. Families and educators often use picture books about Juneteenth to inform readers and increase representation of how and why the holiday matters. In recent years, book bans specifically targeting Black history have compromised intellectual freedom in public schools. Organizations like the Authors Guild, Authors Against Book Bans, We Need Diverse Books, and the Zinn Education Project continue to fight for equitable access to these stories.

I spoke to five contemporary children’s book creators who shared their must-have Juneteenth recipes and reflected on food traditions, their motivations for writing Freedom Day books, and what Juneteenth means to them—beyond the dishes. Their insights are critical because their work preserves what our ancestors endured in the fight for freedom. Much like recipes, this knowledge can—and must—be passed down.

‘Red Punch’ Strawberry Lemonade

Author: Alice Faye Duncan, Opal Lee and What it Means to Be Free (Illustrated by Katurah A. Bobo)

Why it matters: The tradition of red drinks dates back to pre-colonial West Africa, where hibiscus teas and kola nut beverages were popular. Now, with many different variations, the red drink is Juneteenth’s official beverage. Just like red foods, red drinks symbolize the bloodshed endured by enslaved African and Black people and serve as a testament to their strength.

In the author’s words: “My Juneteenth table includes ribs, hot links, smoked Cornish hen, spaghetti, baked beans, and slaw from Cozy Corner BBQ. For dessert, I order strawberry banana pudding from Butterific Bakery. When I am not traveling on Juneteenth for a book event, I make a pitcher of Juneteenth ‘Red Punch’ Strawberry Lemonade, an original recipe from chef and Texas historian, Angela Shelf-Medearis.”

Beyond the plate: Born and raised in Memphis, TN, Duncan has celebrated Juneteenth every year since 1993. She describes Memphis’ Juneteenth Jamboree as a joyful community gathering that includes a sharing of African American history, African drumming, dancing, and soul food. Duncan amplifies Opal Lee’s contribution to Juneteenth in her book. “She serves children a living model of persistence, personal agency, and activism,” says Duncan. “I wrote Opal Lee’s biography to create a permanent document of her courage.”

Collard Greens

Author: Tonya Duncan Ellis, They Built Me for Freedom (Illustrated by Jenin Mohammed)

Why it matters: In the African American tradition, collard greens represent money and denote favor and abundance.

In the author’s words: “Collard greens [with turkey legs] are a staple in my household. My mom made greens regularly for our family growing up, and I’ve continued that tradition with my own husband and children…the greens pair nicely with Juneteenth staples like barbecue, baked beans, deviled eggs, red velvet cake.”

Beyond the plate: “I read an article about how Emancipation Park was the first Juneteenth celebration spot. I’d driven by the park in Houston’s Third Ward area many times over the years on my way home from church. I marveled at the beautiful statues, depicting their founders on each of the park’s corners, and I got chills imagining my ancestors rejoicing over their newfound freedom on the land where I stood.”

Black-Eyed Pea Salad

Author: Tonya Duncan Ellis, They Built Me for Freedom (Illustrated by Jenin Mohammed)

Why it matters: Eating black-eyed peas is known to bring good fortune and prosperity. This staple is enjoyed on various holidays throughout the year, including Juneteenth and the New Year.

In the author’s words: “I was introduced to black-eyed-pea salad a few years ago at a potluck and started adding them to my cookout menu. They are the perfect addition to a Juneteenth meal centered on freedom.”

Beyond the plate: They Built Me for Freedom brings the rich history of an important landmark, Houston, and Juneteenth to the forefront.

Red Velvet Cookie Ice Cream Sandwiches

Author: Van G. Garrett, Juneteenth: A Picture Book for Kids Celebrating Black Joy (Illustrated by Reginald C. Adams)

Why it matters: Red velvet cake and cookies join a long tradition of red foods—like watermelon, strawberry pie, and red punch—that have been central to Juneteenth celebrations for decades.

In the author’s words: “When I was a kid, my folks took me to a Juneteenth parade in Grimes County, Texas. I didn’t fully understand what was happening, but there was a certain level of pride that I experienced. I remember the sights, the sounds, but also the spirit that was in the air…This year, I’m having a traditional soul food meal. Collard greens, fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, red soda, the works! I’m also going to try the red velvet cookie ice cream sandwiches this year. I’ve never made them, but it never hurts to try something new.”

To make it: Start with your favorite red velvet cookie recipe (like the one linked below). Once the cookies have cooled completely, add a scoop of softened vanilla ice cream between two cookies. Gently press them together and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up before serving.

Beyond the plate: “Turn up with the cookout, the barbecue, the parades, all of that. That’s fun, but remember that there’s a reason for the assembly…” emphasizes Garrett. Especially on Juneteenth, he encourages families to listen to the stories of the elders, which gives a deeper appreciation for Juneteenth and why it’s important to embrace our history.

Macaroni and Cheese 

Author: Natasha Tripplett, Juneteenth Is (Illustrated by Daniel J. O’Brien)

Why it matters: Macaroni and cheese is a beloved food in the African American soul food tradition. James Hemings, an enslaved chef trained in French cuisine while serving Thomas Jefferson, is credited with helping refine and popularize the dish in America. While its origins aren’t directly tied to Juneteenth, mac and cheese is often served at celebratory gatherings and symbolizes comfort, strength, and connection within the community.

In the author’s words: “I’m small-town famous for my macaroni and cheese. Not just for Juneteenth, but for every gathering, my family and friends know that Auntie Tasha is bringing the mac and cheese. Can I share a little secret (shhhh)? I boil the noodles in milk to increase the richness of the macaroni. I have to give credit to my husband’s stepmom, an amazing cook, who taught me the mac-and-cheese ropes. The food is a representation of the history of our people—and unity. We’re using food to drive the conversation and honor our ancestors, but what they endured in this country should never be swept under the rug or ignored.”

Beyond the plate: Tripplett’s picture book is an intergenerational story. It is a retelling of how Tripplett and her husband introduced Juneteenth to their family and community. “We settled on gathering everyone at our house to feast. Family and friends come over to tell stories and play basketball. My husband smokes brisket, and it’s just a fun time.” 

Watermelon Snow Cups

Author: Alliah L. Agostini, The Juneteenth Cookbook (Illustrated by Sawyer Cloud)

Why it matters: Watermelon, a red fruit, holds unique significance to Juneteenth. In this dish, it’s paired with lime and Tajín (a chili-lime spice from Mexico), symbolizing the journey of the 3,000 to 10,000 enslaved African and Black people who escaped Texas seeking freedom in Mexico, where slavery was abolished in 1841.

In the author’s words: “Featured in The Juneteenth Cookbook, watermelon snow cones are something that my children and I have been doing over the past several years. I found a Snoopy snow cone maker, which is a toy that I had when I was a kid in the ’80s…It’s a healthy, fun dessert and something that young kids can easily make.”

Beyond the plate: Agostini wants more people to bring the history and celebration back home to the family. Attending larger festivals is great, but there are foods and activities that families can enjoy right from the comfort of their own homes.