PRESIDENTIAL DINNERS. EVERYDAY GROCERIES.
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Presidents/Barack Obama

AT THE TABLE WITH BARACK OBAMA

The make-it-yourself cheeseburger

Do not press the patties while they cook: keep those juices in the burger.

Dinner25 minServes 4
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The make-it-yourself cheeseburger — the modern table
The modern table · Serving illustration

THE STORY ON YOUR PLATE

The chili Obama said he could cook

More about Barack Obama →

The forty-fourth president grew up in Hawaii and built his political career in Chicago.

Historical reconstruction

This burger broadens the Obama menu into a contemporary American family supper. The reconstructed plate uses a homemade patty, a soft bun and toppings chosen for your table.

The president & the table

At the 2012 Kids’ State Dinner, Obama said he could make a good omelet and a very good chili; Michelle backed up the chili claim. This is a personal cooking connection, not simply a dish served by a presidential chef.

Behind this story

White House remarks at the Kids’ State Dinner, 2012; modern family-table reconstruction for the other two recipes.

APRON ON. HISTORY CAN WAIT.

Make it at home.

Serves 4

What you’ll need

Let’s make it

  1. Shape beef gently into 4 patties, slightly wider than the buns. Make a shallow dent in each centre. Season the outsides.

  2. Heat a lightly oiled skillet or grill to medium-high. Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side, until the centre reaches 71°C / 160°F.

  3. Add cheese during the final minute. Toast the buns briefly.

  4. Build with lettuce, tomato, burger, pickles and sauces. Serve immediately.

Cooking notes

Metric and US measures are approximate equivalents. For baking, use weights when you can.

STAY FOR ANOTHER COURSE

More from this table.