Watermelon and Red Birds

The first cookbook to celebrate and investigate Juneteenth, from critically acclaimed food writer Nicole Taylor who draws on her decade of experiences observing the holiday. Nearly two years after Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, Union troops spread the world of liberation to African Americans. And so, on June 19, 1865, in Galveston, Texas, festivities sprung up with song, dance, and most importantly, food. Having been officially recognized and a national holiday, eaters are eager to raise glasses and break bread to honor America's forgotten backbone. Watermelon and Red Birds contains 75 delicious dishes that are simple, victory garden-driven, and approachable. Nicole Taylor provides a new technique to dining at home with all the basics for hosting a bounteous dinner party, all-day brunch, brawny BBQ, clever picnic, and parade-themed kickback, along with thoughtful, moving essays about the meaning of Juneteenth. Recipes include:

-Sweet Potato Yogurt Pops

-New Age Wedge Salad

-Smoked Paprika and Cocoa Popcorn

-Blueberry and Beef Puff Pies

-Squash Blossom Cornbread

-Nectarine Milkshake

-And more! Taylor is a gifted storyteller, an expert researcher, and a talented home cook who brings all those gifts and more to Watermelon and Red Birds. These recipes and essays will inspire gatherings and salute one of the most important American holidays all year round.