Barack Obama makes his way up the front steps of the Capitol Building. (Pete Souza)
All eyes are fixed on Washington D.C. this week, as we prepare to welcome in our 44th president, Barack Obama. What might be more fascinating than the poignant speech he’ll make to what is predicted to be the largest gathering of people in the western hemisphere ever, is what Michelle will be wearing, and what the new first couple will be eating.
This morning on the Today Show, Chef Shannon Shaffer of Design Cuisine shared the menu and recipes for the inaugural luncheon, taking place in the Capitol’s Statuary Hall with 230 guests. After leaving the formal inauguration ceremony, where temperatures are expected to be in the 20s, the newly sworn-in president, his family and members of congress will warm up around this beautiful and decadent feast.
Feel free to prepare your own home version of this inaugural meal, with the recipes from all three courses. We’ve also noted the wine pairings being served at the luncheon.
First Course
Seafood Stew. This hearty blend of lobster, scallops, shrimp, cod, root vegetables and seasonings will definitely warm the chilly president. Paired with Duckhorn Vineyards’ 2024 Sauvignon Blanc.
Main Course
Duck Breast with Cherry Chutney. A well seasoned duck breast is served with a glaze made of fresh bing cherries, hot pepper flakes and golden raisins.
Statuary Hall in the Capitol Building will be the backdrop for Obama's luncheon.
Herb Roasted Pheasant with Wild Rice Stuffing. Wild long grain rice is prepared with rosemary, thyme and sage, then stuffed with carrots and onions inside the roasted pheasant breast.
Side dishes for the main course include Molasses Whipped Sweet Potatoes and Winter Vegetables. Wine pairing for this course is the Goldeneye, 2005 Pinot Noir.
Dessert Course
The inaugural luncheon will be completed with a Cinnamon Apple Spongecake, served along with Korbel’s Natural “Special Inauguration Cuvee” California Champagne.
Planning an inuguration party that’s less gourmet? Try Barack Obama’s personal chili recipe, or the Barack Obama Pizza Burger.
Thank you so much for posting this fascinating information. I wish I would have found it yesterday but I am going to “borrow” it right now to add to the post I did yesterday for Inauguration Day. Thanks again, Louise
Who cares? Not me.
Why not have a SIMPLE menu and donate the balance of the budgeted amount to a local food bank? Oh, that’s right, budget for the Obamas is of NO CONCERN!! Spare no expense. It doesn’t matter that his actions are completely contrary to his rhetoric. Self indulgent, pompous are what they all are!
Umm ok i thought this was to comment on the recipe not what you think about our president. If you are gonna get on here to look at weight watchers recipes, then do so but dont get on here and run your mouth aboout what you think.
[[Peace]]
by the way- weight watchers is really amazing! i have already lost 14 pounds and it has only been 2 weeks!!! i love this recipe!!