July 4th Celebration: More Than Just Fireworks and Barbecues

A Historical Toast: George Washington's Double Ration of Rum

Did you know that George Washington ordered a double ration of rum for his soldiers on July 4th, 1778? This gesture was accompanied by an artillery salute, marking one of the earliest celebrations of American independence. Meanwhile, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin hosted a dinner for Americans in Paris, France, to commemorate the occasion.

Modern-Day Celebrations

Today, Independence Day is synonymous with fireworks, parades, barbecues, and family gatherings. According to the National Retail Federation, 61% of Americans plan to attend a cookout or picnic on the Fourth of July. The holiday often serves as an opportunity to enjoy a long weekend with loved ones, sharing meals and creating memories.

Elevate Your Barbecue Game

While hamburgers and hot dogs are traditional barbecue fare, there's no reason they have to be ordinary. Here are some creative recipes to add a little "zip" to your July 4th menu.

The Hot Belly Buster Burger

This burger is not for the faint of heart. Packed with jalapeno peppers and Tabasco sauce, it's a spicy, hearty meal that will leave your guests talking.

Ingredients:

• 4 pounds ground chuck
• 5 fresh jalapeno peppers
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup Heinz 57 steak sauce
• 1/4 cup minced white onion
• 1 teaspoon Tabasco™ or your favorite hot pepper sauce
• 1 pinch dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic salt
• 1/4 cup Fritos® corn chips, crushed
• 8 large hamburger buns
• 8 slices pepperjack cheese
• Lettuce
• Sliced tomato
• Sliced onion
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill to high heat.
2. Roast the jalapeno peppers until blackened on all sides. Place them in a plastic bag to sweat and loosen the skin.
3. Rub off the skin, seed, and dice the peppers (use gloves to avoid irritation).
4. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, salt, pepper, egg, steak sauce, onion, hot pepper sauce, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, garlic salt, and Fritos®.
5. Divide the mixture into 8 balls and flatten into patties.
6. Grill the patties for 10 to 15 minutes, turning once (burgers are done at 160°F).
7. Butter the hamburger buns and either place them on the grill or warm them in the oven.
8. Dress the buns with lettuce, sliced tomato, and sliced onion.
9. Top each burger with a slice of pepperjack cheese just before removing from the grill.
10. Place the burgers on the buns and serve.

Easy Chili Dogs for July 4th

For a twist on the classic hot dog, try these easy chili dogs. They're quick to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 all-beef or Kosher hot dogs
• 1 pound canned chili without beans (e.g., Nalley's)
• 4 hot dog buns, split in half lengthwise
• 1/4 cup onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. Fry or grill the hot dogs (boiling is also an option).
2. Heat the chili in a heavy saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring frequently until hot.
3. Reduce the heat to low and keep the chili warm until ready to serve.
4. Place the hot dogs in the buns and cover with chili.
5. Top with chopped onions and serve with desired condiments.

For an extra touch, add shredded cheddar cheese and toast the buns on a grill or in the oven.

Conclusion

These are just a couple of ways to add some great taste and fun to your 4th of July party. For more ideas, check out Food Network's Fourth of July Recipes.

Interesting Stats

• According to the National Retail Federation, Americans spent $6.9 billion on food for July 4th celebrations in 2020.
• The American Pyrotechnics Association reports that over 16,000 fireworks displays occur on July 4th each year.

By adding a little creativity to your menu, you can make this Independence Day one to remember. Happy Fourth of July!

Sources:

• National Retail Federation
• American Pyrotechnics Association