The meat starts cooking the night before, and slowly but surely, the chunk of raw beef will become tender, flavorful and moist brisket. It’s a flavor that has come to be associated with the holiday Juneteenth. There are many other foods that characterize the holiday that commemorates the day Texas slaves were finally notified of their freedom in 1865. Whether you’re celebrating with your family or going to one of Austin’s celebrations, be sure to try some of these tasty dishes.

Barbecue

For this holiday, barbecue reigns supreme. At any Juneteenth celebration, you can be sure to find brisket, chicken wings, ribs and pork chops. Common to Texas, brisket meat comes from right above the front legs of cattle, which means the meat is usually really tough. It is cooked long and slow to tenderize the meat with flavor coming mainly from a spice rub or marinade.

Collard Greens & Sweet Potatoes

These healthy options were commonly grown during the time of slavery and offer a variety of nutrients like vitamin K and A. Collard greens can be made vegetarian depending on whether or not ham hock is used during cooking. Sweet potatoes end up in pies similar to their pumpkin cousins that grace Thanksgiving tables.

Red Soda Water (and anything else that’s red)

Red is a color that is seen everywhere during Juneteenth. You will find it as red soda water, strawberry pies, red velvet cake and in red beans and rice. The classic color symbolizes blood lost during the struggle for emancipation or the hibiscus tea that was frequently drunk by slaves during celebrations, depending on who you talk to.

Tea Cakes

This is not your typical cookie, but it could easily pass as a sugar cookie. It is usually made with butter or lard, sugar, flour and some kind of spice like nutmeg or vanilla. Tea cakes are such a traditional part of African-American cuisine that you won’t find a celebration without them. Even some fictional characters are named after them, such as Vergible “Tea Cake” Woods from Zora Neale Hurston’s “Their Eyes Were Watching God.” They’re that much of a staple.

Watermelon

When it comes to this cool summer treat, there is no Juneteenth without it. In an article by the National Geographic’s The Plate, Rev. Dr. Ronald Myers said it best:
“Watermelon and red soda water are the oldest traditional foods on Juneteenth,” said Myers, head of the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation. “And there’s always been soul food served. Fried chicken and barbecue and greens and black-eyed peas. I’m getting hungry! At any traditional Juneteenth dinner that’s what you’ll find.”