FROM THE FOUNDING TABLE TO YOUR KITCHEN
POTUSPLATETHE PRESIDENTIAL TABLEHISTORY IS SERVED.

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.

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.

Our home adaptation · Serves 4 · Not yet kitchen-tested

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.

About this home version

A modern home recipe with practical ingredients and measured quantities.

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