American · Stovetop
Creamy mashed potatoes
Soft potatoes, warm milk and butter are all you need for a dependable side. A hand masher keeps the texture fluffy without turning it gluey.
Chinese-inspired · FROM THE FDR RECIPES KITCHEN
Steamed eggplant with sesame dressing
Soft eggplant absorbs a tangy soy and rice-vinegar dressing. This is a room-temperature side with a silky texture, not a browned roasted vegetable.
Make it at home.
Ingredients
Step by step
Step 1
Trim the eggplants and cut lengthwise into quarters. If using a large globe eggplant, cut into even 3/4-inch-thick strips instead.
Step 2
Arrange in a steamer basket over boiling water. Cover and steam for 10–15 minutes, until completely soft when pierced.
Step 3
Meanwhile, whisk the vinegar, soy sauce, both oils and sugar until combined.
Step 4
Let the eggplant cool slightly, then dress while still warm. Turn gently so it keeps its shape.
Kitchen guide: How to cook a good dinner in a steamer
About this recipe
Adapted from archive recipe 752. Oil is reduced from 1/2 cup to 2 tablespoons; ordinary rice vinegar is offered as an accessible alternative to red rice vinegar.
Edited for PotusPlate, October 2026. This home adaptation has not yet been kitchen-tested. The archive photograph illustrates the earlier version.
MAKE A MEAL OF IT
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