Inside the White House: Favorite Foods of U.S. Presidents

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Dwight D. Eisenhower: Beef Stew

President Dwight D. Eisenhower was a fan of simple, home-cooked meals, and his beef stew was no exception. A practical and self-sufficient cook, Eisenhower even prepared this dish himself on occasion. Eisenhower’s beef stew was a no-fuss, deeply flavorful dish that reflected his love of hearty, classic American meals. Slow-simmered and packed with tender beef and vegetables, it was a favorite comfort food perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients (for 6-8 servings):

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 min. until fragrant.
3. Return the beef to the pot and stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 min.
4. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Continue simmering for another 30 min, or until vegetables are tender.
6. If a thicker stew is desired, dissolve 2 tbsp flour in ¼ cup water and stir it in during the last 10 min. of cooking.
7. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.