The thirty-fifth president brought a young family to the White House.
Family or White House tradition
The JFK Library names New England fish chowder among Kennedy’s favourite foods. Cod or haddock, potatoes and milk make this a fish chowder with a gentle, creamy broth.
The president & the table
The JFK Library describes Kennedy as particularly fond of New England fish chowder. Its account presents a light lunchtime pattern of soup, sandwich and fruit, and also records his liking for seafood and chocolate desserts.
Behind this story
JFK Library, “President Kennedy’s Favorite Foods”; family recollections.
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
Cook bacon in a heavy saucepan over medium heat until its fat renders. Add onion and soften for 5 minutes.
Add potatoes, stock and bay. Simmer gently for 15–18 minutes until potatoes are tender.
Add milk and cream, heat gently, then add fish. Poach for 5–8 minutes without vigorous boiling, until fish flakes and reaches 63°C / 145°F.
Remove bay. Taste before salting, add pepper and parsley, and serve with crackers.
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.
