Juneteenth with Chef Rashaunda Grant
Rashaunda Grant, is a proud alumna of Florida A & M University and The Culinary Institute of Charleston. From these experiences and many others Chef Rashaunda created The Carolina Cookery that features; classic techniques along with historical Gullah-Geechee recipes and foodways. Rashaunda describes her culinary expertise as “Southern Soul Re-imagined.” As a Black southern belle with Gullah-Geechee heritage Chef Rashaunda is different but very similar to many lowcountry natives. She shares “even if I just boil an egg, I’m going to put some Lowcountry seasoning on it.”
The Menu
Besides adding flavor to food items that can be bland if you aren’t from Charleston, SC, Chef Rashaunda provides cooking for the public, through the Carolina Cookery, and catered events and serves as a private chef for others. Chef Rashaunda’s Juneteenth celebration with Black Southern Belle features mouthwatering foods inspired by the new cookbook Watermelon and Red Birds: A Cookbook for Juneteenth and Black Celebrations from Nicole A. Taylor. If you are not sure what to include for Juneteenth; take a peek at these highly suggested items below from a well-versed chef. And for tailgating inspiration check out – FAMU alumnus Rashaunda Grant serves up tailgating bites inspired by HBCUs
Pork Ribs with BBQ Sauce Flight
One BBQ sauce on tender pork ribs isn’t enough. Take a sauce flight to three powerful sauces and top each rib with sauce right before you serve. Based on the preference of the guest indulging; wait to add on the sauce right before pulling them off the grill. Use this dish to understand your party flavor type for your next summer function. Chef Rashaunda wants to remind you “brine your meat overnight.” If you follow her steps your grilled meat will be moist and delicious and falling off the bone.
Crab & Egg Salad
Crab is a low country native dish and incorporating this seafood staple food item in any dish just makes it that more yummy. Balance the hearty fresh water flavor with a smooth and creamy egg salad to create a win for all guests attending. Either as a stand alone dish or a great side item; this southern salad is one to add to your Juneteenth menu.
Hibiscus Tea / Afro Egg Cream
With egg in its title, one would think this red drink; is weird in flavor but is far from that. An egg free drink with sweet hibiscus tea, simple syrup, heavy cream and added seltzer for a light taste; is what you can experience in just one glass. If you ensure that each ingredient is made to your specific liking or taste, this drink will be a hit on Juneteenth and even a recipe you will continue at other summer functions.